The 2025 Zenith Bank Women’s Premier League playoffs culminated in a thrilling final showdown between two formidable Atlantic Conference franchises: Dolphins Basketball Club of Lagos and First Bank. Both teams arrived at the final undefeated, showcasing their dominance throughout the playoffs. The championship game, held at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, promised a captivating battle for the coveted title.
Dolphins secured their spot in the final after a convincing victory against Abuja-based Royal Aces in the semi-finals. Their 66-54 triumph over Royal Aces underscored their consistent performance in the playoffs, having previously defeated reigning champions MFM, Titans, and Nigeria Customs. Coach Peter Akindele credited their success to the intensive four-month training period that preceded the playoffs, emphasizing the team’s dedication and hard work. He acknowledged the valuable experience gained from competing against diverse teams in the Final Eight, particularly those from the Savannah Conference. Confident in his team’s capabilities, Akindele expressed their eagerness to face First Bank, despite a narrow defeat to them in a previous conference game. He highlighted his team’s youthful energy and mobility, emphasizing their determination to secure their first-ever final victory, a feat they desired more than the seasoned First Bank team.
First Bank’s journey to the final involved a nail-biting 47-45 victory over two-time champions, MFM, in a closely contested semi-final. The Elephant Girls, as they are known, started strong but faced a resilient MFM side that mounted a comeback before halftime. The second half witnessed a seesaw battle, with the lead changing hands multiple times. However, coach Juliana Akhere’s team displayed exceptional defensive prowess, ultimately securing a hard-fought victory in a highly anticipated match. Their unbeaten run in the playoffs included victories against Royal Aces, Air Warriors, and Bayelsa Blue Whales, solidifying their status as a top contender.
MFM’s coach, Ochuko Owolabi, expressed her disappointment following the narrow defeat, acknowledging the dashed hopes of her team. Despite the setback, she emphasized their resilience and determination to fight another day. Looking ahead to the third-place game, Owolabi expressed her intention to motivate her players, recognizing the challenge of lifting their spirits after a tough loss. She emphasized the importance of securing the bronze medal, viewing it as a necessary consolation after their unsuccessful title bid. Their opponent in the third-place game would undoubtedly present a tough challenge, yet she stressed her determination to avoid returning home empty-handed.
The final between Dolphins and First Bank represented a clash of styles and aspirations. Dolphins, a relatively young team, sought to make history and establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with. Their coach, Peter Akindele, underscored their hunger for victory, portraying it as a driving force behind their impressive playoff run. Their focus on teamwork, mobility, and tireless effort made them a formidable opponent. First Bank, on the other hand, boasted a rich history of success, with multiple championships under their belt. Their experience and tactical awareness, combined with a robust defensive strategy, presented a significant challenge to Dolphins’ aspirations. The final promised a thrilling encounter, with both teams determined to claim the ultimate prize.
The Dolphins’ journey to the final was marked by their unwavering belief in their abilities and a commitment to relentless hard work. They showcased a dynamic and fast-paced style of play, utilizing their mobility and youthful energy to overwhelm opponents. Their upset victory over reigning champions MFM early in the playoffs signaled their intent and potential. Coach Akindele’s emphasis on teamwork and a strong work ethic proved crucial to their success. The team’s unity and determination were evident throughout their playoff campaign, inspiring confidence in their ability to overcome any obstacle.
First Bank, a perennial powerhouse in the league, approached the final with a quiet confidence, stemming from their years of experience and a proven track record. Their emphasis on defensive solidity and tactical discipline served as the foundation of their success. Coach Juliana Akhere’s strategic approach, combined with the team’s individual brilliance, made them a difficult team to break down. Their narrow victory against MFM in the semi-finals demonstrated their ability to perform under pressure and their resilience in the face of adversity. They entered the final as slight favorites, but fully aware of the threat posed by the energetic Dolphins.
