PLATEAU WINS GOLD AS FCT TAKES BRONZE IN CDS U-18 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT
By: Gyang Dakwo
Team Plateau has been crowned champions of the second edition of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Democracy Day U-18 Basketball Championship, capping off an exciting five-day event that saw some of the country’s best young basketball talents on full display.
Team FCT also had a strong showing, earning third place after a convincing 70–53 victory over Kaduna in the bronze medal match played on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
The FCT boys showed confidence and control from the start, winning all four quarters with sharp shooting and tight defense. Their teamwork and energy on the court helped them cruise past Kaduna and secure a well-deserved spot on the podium.
Later that same day, all eyes turned to the final game between Plateau and M2 Academy who were both unbeaten heading into the contest. The atmosphere inside the indoor basketball court was electric as fans cheered for what turned out to be one of the most exciting matchups of the tournament.
Plateau came out strong, edging the first quarter 8–6. They built on that lead in the second quarter, taking advantage of several mistakes from M2 Academy to stretch the score to 27–20 by halftime.
M2 Academy fought back in the third quarter with more energy and better movement, but Plateau managed to stay in front with a 36–32 lead. In the fourth and final quarter, Plateau stepped up once more, pulling away from their opponents to seal a 50–36 victory and lift the championship trophy.
The five-day event, which began on Saturday, June 14, brought together 16 teams comprising 10 boys’ teams and 6 girls’ teams from across the country.
The tournament was held under the theme “Encouraging Grassroots Basketball Talents” and aimed to discover and support young players who can help grow the sport and contribute to national development.
In the end, the tournament delivered more than just scores and medals, it gave young athletes a platform to shine and brought hope for the future of Nigerian basketball.
