Former D’Tigers captain and current Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) board member, Olumide Oyedeji, has launched a grassroots basketball program called the ‘Generation Next Basketball Showcase.’ The program is aimed at developing young talents in the sport and is set to begin on September 17, 2021, across Lagos.
The ‘Generation Next Basketball Showcase’ is a platform for young basketball players to showcase their skills and talent and gain exposure to scouts and coaches. The program will feature a series of tournaments and clinics designed to enhance the skills of players between the ages of 12-18. The initiative is part of Oyedeji’s vision to promote basketball at the grassroots level and provide opportunities for young people to pursue their passion for the sport.
Oyedeji, who is a former NBA player, believes that the program will help bridge the gap between grassroots basketball and the professional level. He stated, “The program is aimed at creating a pathway for young players to reach their full potential and become professional basketball players. We want to provide them with the opportunity to showcase their skills and get noticed by scouts and coaches.”
The ‘Generation Next Basketball Showcase’ is expected to attract young talents from all over Lagos, and Oyedeji hopes to expand the program to other parts of Nigeria in the future. He believes that the program will help develop a new generation of basketball players who can represent Nigeria at the international level.
The NBBF has expressed its support for the program, with its President, Musa Kida, stating, “We believe that the ‘Generation Next Basketball Showcase’ is an excellent initiative that will help develop young talents in the sport. The NBBF is committed to supporting programs that promote basketball at the grassroots level and providing opportunities for young people to pursue their passion for the sport.”
Overall, the ‘Generation Next Basketball Showcase’ is a significant step towards promoting grassroots basketball development in Nigeria. With the support of the NBBF and the determination of Olumide Oyedeji, the program has the potential to create a new generation of basketball stars who can represent Nigeria on the world stage.
