By Isaac Afolabi
Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA) has emerged champions of the inaugural Ondo State University Basketball Championship, held at the indoor sports hall of the Akure Sports Complex.
AAUA triumphed over Achievers University, Owo, in a tense and thrilling final, sealing victory with a 38–34 win.
The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) claimed third place after defeating Ondo State University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa (OSUSTECH) with a scoreline of 51–30.
The event, tagged “Our Ease Students Fest 1.0” and themed “Empowering Students to Be Agents of Change”, was organized to commemorate International Students’ Day.
Director of the Ondo State Student Athlete Development Office (OSSADO), Olabode James, said the championship was created to discover and nurture young basketball talents across the state.
Speaking after the medal presentation, the Senior Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor on Student Affairs, Hon. Kevin Solomon Olaolu (KSO), noted that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa supported the initiative to bring youths together, develop their skills, and channel their energy into meaningful activities.
Olaolu added that the state government plans to make the championship an annual event aimed at promoting unity and positive engagement among students.
Coaches Praise the Initiative
Achievers University head coach, Tosin Olajubutu, described the tournament as a valuable platform to assess players and motivate his team.
He called for consistency in organizing such events, stressing that regular competitions would help reduce social vices among youths.
AAUA coach Oni Glorious expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, attributing their success to hard work, discipline, and rigorous training.
He commended the Ondo State Government for the initiative and pledged that AAUA would continue to represent the institution with pride in future competitions.
MVP Recognition
Yusuf Oluwaseyi of AAUA was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament, receiving a cash prize and an award for his outstanding performance.
The championship drew large crowds of students, union leaders, and basketball fans from across participating universities, creating an energetic and unifying atmosphere at the Akure Sports Complex.