Zenith/NBBF Final 8 Championships: Royal Aces whitewash Bayelsa Blue Whales

Posted : 12 October 2024

The second round of matches at the ongoing Zenith Bank Women’s Basketball National Final 8 on Friday saw the Royal Aces of Abuja overwhelm the Bayelsa Blue Whales, winning 69-27.

The game featured a dominant performance by Royal Aces, who were determined to bounce back after losing their first game to First Bank of Lagos.

They took an early lead of 19-6 in the first quarter, controlling ball play and executing accurate passes that broke down the Bayelsa Blue Whales' defense.

Royal Aces maintained their momentum and won the second quarter 20-14, becoming more aggressive despite the Bayelsa Blue Whales' attempt to rally back.

Star player and team leader Ruth Udeyin put on a stellar performance, leading both defensively and offensively to secure control over the game.

Royal Aces also took the third and fourth quarters, 15-3 and 15-4, respectively, playing with increased aggression and forcing their opponents into making numerous unforced errors.

Bayelsa struggled under pressure and looked depleted, a stark contrast to their confident performance in their opening game.

In his response, Tony Nelson, Head Coach of Bayelsa Blue Whales, stated that he was not disappointed despite the loss.

“We did not play well today and were completely overrun by Royal Aces,” he said. “We have to take this as a lesson and try to bounce back. We also need to encourage the girls; some of them are very young and need support, not criticism.”

Similarly, Bayelsa Blue Whales' Captain, Abigail Isaiah, acknowledged that the team had a tough day but remained confident they could recover.

Royal Aces' Captain, Ruth Udeyin, expressed that the team had to "wake up" after their initial loss to First Bank. She highlighted their determination to secure a win, regardless of their opponents, by playing with teamwork and cohesion.

“This is a very good performance from us. We are delighted with the result. We wanted to win by a large margin, and we did just that,” said Udeyin.

In a related game, First Bank Basketball Club of Lagos defeated Titans Basketball Club of Abuja 70-45, marking their second win and putting them at the top of the group.

The Zenith Bank Women’s Basketball Final 8 Championships feature the top teams from the Savannah and Atlantic Conferences.

The competition, organized by the Nigeria Basketball Federation, is being held at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium in Lagos to determine the national champions for the year.

Zenith/NBBF Final 8 Championships: Royal Aces whitewash Bayelsa Blue Whales

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