By BABATUNDE OGUNRIDE

MFM Basketball Club captain, Okoh Ukamaka, has attributed the team’s impressive run at the Zenith Bank Women’s Basketball League Final 8 to teamwork and unity.

MFM maintained their unbeaten run with a 60-48 victory over Aso Sky Queens at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

The victory extended MFM’s winning streak to 17 matches in the competition.

MFM led 16-13 after the first quarter and extended their advantage to 32-27 at halftime.

Aso Sky Queens fought back strongly in the third quarter, reducing the deficit to three points.

However, MFM regained control in the final quarter to secure victory and maintain their unbeaten record.

Ukamaka said the team’s consistency was not only due to tactics and individual talent but also the strong bond among the players.

“There is this bond we have that no other team can get or have. We are together.

“We pray and play together, and we work very hard,” she said.

The captain said her leadership focused on promoting unity, mutual respect and ensuring that every player understood her role.

“There is no discrimination. We don’t treat this person separately from the other.

“When it is time to do the job, we all know this person is my senior, this person is a junior.

“We respect ourselves; we are here to play and to win. That is what we’ve been working hard for,” she added.

Ukamaka also commended the club’s management for providing stability, including regular payment of players’ salaries.

She said the team would intensify preparations ahead of the semifinal as they continued their quest for another league title.

Meanwhile, First Bank Basketball Club defeated Nigeria Customs 69-47 to advance to the semifinals.

Air Warriors ended their campaign with a 60-48 victory over Victoria Queens, while Bayelsa Blue Whales edged Titans 43-39.

In the semifinals, MFM will face Nigeria Customs, while First Bank will take on Aso Sky Queens.

Both winners will advance to the championship final. (NAN)

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