By our reporter 27.11.2025
Former NBA star and Nigerian basketball long time promoter and supporter, Olumide Oyedeji, has praised Lagos Legends for the exceptional balance in their teamwork, following their win first time win of the Nigeria Basketball Premier League title.
Lagos Legend beat Rivers Hoopers in a dramatic 74–72 points victory on Sunday, to win the bragging rights for the 2026 Basketball Africa League (BAL).
Oyedeji, the proprietor of Hoops N’ Read and a respected NBBF board member, described the victory as “a new chapter” for the domestic league, insisting that Legends’ rise is proof that Nigerian clubs can hit continental standards with the right planning and discipline.
“Lagos Legends’ victory is the result of hard work, and other teams should learn from the way they went about their business,” Oyedeji said, urging the champions to begin early preparation for the enormous challenge the BAL presents.
While his own Hoops N’ Read side did not reach the Final Four this season, bowing out in the Final Eight, Oyedeji remained fully invested in the league’s growth.
His consistent presence, mentorship, and investment in player development have shaped him into one of the most influential voices pushing the Nigerian game forward.
Despite recently losing his beloved mother, Oyedeji has remained deeply committed to supporting the growth of the domestic game. His presence, leadership, and investment continue to shape the direction of Nigerian basketball even during this period.
He also applauded Rivers Hoopers, who hosted the Final Four for the third straight year, praising their organisation and hospitality.
“You did not just host, you were excellent hosts,” he noted.
Despite playing with the backing of their home fans, the Kings Men fell narrowly short in their bid to reclaim the crown. Oyedeji, a former D’Tigers captain, encouraged them: “You gave your best, but it wasn’t enough. Better luck next time.”
Beyond the result, Oyedeji’s message was clear, Nigerian basketball is moving, growing, and rising and the Legends’ triumph is another sign that the NBBF Premier League is becoming more competitive, more professional, and more exciting.
And as the league continues to evolve, Oyedeji’s steady influence, from club ownership to administration to grassroots nurturing, remains one of the driving forces shaping its future.