Taiye Sobogun, the head coach of Oyo State Basketball Association, on Monday in Ibadan stated that his team were ready to win the ongoing Basketball South-West Showdown.
Sobogun told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) after their third game at the competition holding at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium that they have all it takes to win the competition.
“We have played three games and won all. Today’s game against Ekiti was our third game and it was very intense as both teams fought so hard before we could win 58-54.
“I kept one player on the bench strictly for the crucial part of the last quarter and he came in and changed the game which equally gave us the victory.
“Now the morale is high, and the players are in a good shape to maintain the winning streak and eventually win the competition,” he said.
NAN reports that Oyo State had beaten Ondo State 82-51 and then Ogun 75-40 to set the pace in the competition which is making its debut.
Sobogun however noted that he was aware that basketball is unpredictable and winning is not sure for any side until the final whistle is blown.
“It is not a guarantee that when you lead from the first to third quarter you will win the game.
“The last quarter is always tense and can give one high blood pressure. It’s in the last quarter that you’ll see everyone sitting at the edge of their chairs with all attention on the court,” he said.
The coach said his players have been playing all matches as they come and were not underrating any of their opponents.
“I must first commended the players for always giving their best and playing according to instructions,” he said.
NAN reports that the competition is sponsored by the Olumide Oyedeji Youth Foundation, and is aimed at promoting unity, discipline and talent development among the youths in the South-West states.
Teams from Lagos, Ondo and Oyo states are participating in the competition, alongside counterparts from Ogun, Ekiti and Osun.
NAN reports also that the competition which will end on Friday has former D’Tigers captain Oyedeji providing feeding, kitting and accommodation for all participants.(NAN)
