The Savannah Conference of the 2024 Nigeria Basketball Premier League wrapped up with a thrilling final day of games on Sunday, November 3, leaving fans in awe and setting high expectations for the national stage. Gboko City Chiefs proved unstoppable, securing a dominant 95-63 victory over Plateau Peaks and finishing at the top of the conference standings.
Gboko City Chiefs vs. Plateau Peaks: A Game of Intensity and Determination
The match between Gboko City Chiefs and Plateau Peaks was anticipated to be a close contest, and for the first quarter, it was just that. Plateau Peaks led early on, narrowly edging out Gboko City Chiefs with a 19-17 lead. However, as the game progressed, Gboko City’s depth and firepower became clear. By halftime, Gboko had taken a solid lead, 41-35, and continued to widen the gap in the third quarter, finishing it at 74-47.
Key to Gboko City Chiefs’ surge was George Williams, who electrified the home crowd with his impeccable three-point shooting. Williams’ precision from beyond the arc earned him roaring ovations, a testament to his influence on the game and the fans’ recognition of his skill. Plateau Peaks’ captain, Simpa Peter Sule, alongside the skilled Chisom Obasi, gave an admirable effort, rallying their team with determination and grit. Still, Gboko City Chiefs’ resilience and superior teamwork ultimately overwhelmed the Peaks.
After the game, Gboko City Chiefs’ Coach Alex Ujoh expressed pride in his team’s performance, emphasizing that they came to make a statement. “We’re not pushovers; we’re here to compete, and we aim to win the National League,” he declared confidently. On the opposing bench, Plateau Peaks’ Coach Nendirmwa Joshua took the defeat as a learning experience, noting that the team would need to return to the drawing board and come back stronger.
Other Final Day Results Highlight the League’s Competitiveness
Elsewhere in the Savannah Conference, Gombe Bulls secured an impressive 96-68 win over Bauchi Nets, showcasing their offensive prowess. In a gritty match, Kano Pillars triumphed over Nigeria Correctional with a score of 63-57. Meanwhile, Nile University edged out Nigeria Customs in a nail-biter, winning 78-76.
Results from Final Day
- Bauchi Nets 68 : Gombe Bulls 96
- Kano Pillars 63 : Nigeria Correctional 57
- Gboko City Chiefs 95 : Plateau Peaks 63
- Nigeria Customs 76 : Nile University 78
The close scorelines throughout the day reflected the league’s rising competitive spirit, something that Victor Okoro, a technical director with the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NNBF), noted with pride. Okoro praised the conference for its high level of play and expressed confidence that the Savannah Conference will produce a national champion this season.
Japhet Dimka, a member of the organizing committee, commended the hosting by Plateau State, attributing the event’s success to strong local support. However, he urged government officials to support the welfare of players, particularly those on Plateau Peaks, highlighting that improved resources would help the team advance.
Looking Ahead: A Promising Road to Nationals
With the Savannah Conference now concluded and Gboko City Chiefs emerging as the undisputed leaders, fans and players alike are looking forward to the national championship. Gboko’s commanding win over Plateau Peaks underscores their potential as serious contenders, and their performance has undoubtedly set the stage for an exciting National League. As teams like Gombe Bulls and Kano Pillars also prepare to move forward, the Savannah Conference’s representatives will carry their ambition, grit, and newfound experience into the national competition, where only the best will emerge victorious.