By Our Correspondent
Teams from across the Northwest are set to converge on Kano for the maiden edition of the DAM Foundation Basketball Championship scheduled to hold from April 16 to 19, 2026.
The competition, sponsored by the DAM Foundation, will feature male and female teams from seven states in the zone, including Zamfara, Kebbi, Sokoto, Katsina, Jigawa, Kaduna and the host, Kano State.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, the coordinator of the competition and former national basketball team head coach, Sani Ahmad, said arrangements had been concluded to ensure a successful championship.
Ahmad, who also served as chief coach of Kano Pillars Basketball Club, said the tournament would provide an opportunity for states to build strong teams for upcoming national competitions.
He listed such events to include the National Youth Games, the National Sports Festival and leagues organised by the Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF).
The coach commended the sponsor, Dr Abdullahi Mustapha, for supporting the revival of basketball in the Northwest, urging other well-meaning individuals to contribute to sports development rather than relying solely on government funding.
“Competitions like this are very important, especially at this critical time. They will help keep our youths away from anti-social vices and also support the development of their talents,” he said.
Ahmad also called on participating teams to exhibit sportsmanship and represent their states well, assuring that organisers would ensure fair officiating throughout the tournament.
Key stakeholders in the basketball community from within and outside the state are expected to attend the opening and closing ceremonies.
