Nigeria, July 7 -- The President of FIBA Africa Zone 3, Sam Ahmedu, has restated his commitment to grassroots basketball development across West Africa as the inaugural FIBA Africa Zone 3 Academies Tournament for players under the age of 17 tipped off in Lagos.

The landmark event, which began on 5 July at the indoor facility of the Dolphins Female Basketball Foundation, has drawn participation from 21 academy teams, mostly from Nigeria, due to logistical challenges faced by other countries in the region.

The tournament, which concludes on 8 July, is designed as a platform for young basketball talents to compete, assess their progress, and grow within a structured setting.

Speaking during a media session, Mr Ahmedu, a retired colonel, e...