The countdown is on for the Zenith Women’s Basketball Super 8, which tips off in Lagos from September 16 to 21, promising a week of excitement, skill, and fierce competition as Nigeria’s top eight women’s clubs battle for national glory.
Chairperson of the NBBF Zenith Women’s Premier League, Perpetua Clement, says this season has been one of the most competitive yet, stressing that local players are beginning to close the gap between themselves and Nigerian stars plying their trade abroad.
“This season’s Premier League has been highly competitive, and with the Final Eight approaching, we anticipate an even greater display of sportsmanship, grit, and strategy,” Clement told reporters in Lagos.
“The level of basketball in Nigeria has been very impressive. We saw teams display strong skills and remarkable teamwork.”
Her comments come at a time when Nigerian women’s basketball is enjoying unprecedented recognition.
D’Tigress remain the dominant force in Africa, while Nigerian-born professionals continue to shine across Europe and the United States.
For Clement, this is a source of pride, but also a challenge for the local league to keep raising the bar.
“As for our local basketballers, while there are still some gaps, with continued training, exposure, and mentorship, I believe they will soon hold their own against the very best in the world,” she said.
The Super 8 tournament, backed by Zenith Bank, has become the premier platform for showcasing women’s basketball in Nigeria.
Over the years, it has unearthed fresh talent and provided opportunities for players to rise from the grassroots to the international stage.
Clement noted that such corporate partnerships have been critical in sustaining and growing the game.
She also commended NBBF President, Engr. Musa Kida, for his leadership in maintaining competitive structures and supporting the league, which she said has helped bridge the gap between local and global standards.
For fans, the Lagos showdown is expected to deliver high-octane action—fast breaks, three-point shootouts, tactical battles, and raw athleticism.
The participating clubs will not only be chasing the national crown but also staking their claim as key contributors to the growth of the women’s game in Nigeria.
With less than two weeks to go, anticipation is building.
As Clement put it, the Super 8 will be a celebration of talent, passion, and ambition, proving once again that Nigerian women’s basketball is on a steady rise.