Adekalu Bulls Drown Bayelsa in Thrilling Softball Final

Champions: Adekalu Bulls of Lagos 

Port Harcourt, Nigeria - Adekalu Bulls of Lagos have emerged victorious in the 3rd edition of the Professor Ndi Okereke National Softball Championship, defeating Team Bayelsa 7-3 in a nail-biting final at the Sharks Stadium.

The underdogs, Adekalu Bulls, stunned the favorites, Team Bayelsa, with a decisive win, capping off a fairytale run in the tournament. Coach Cynthia Sunday of Adekalu Bulls praised her team's performance, saying, "I never expected anything more than this. I do watch their matches, I was not tensed neither were my players also."

Team Bayelsa's Coach Adekunle Ajayi attributed their loss to the unavailability of quality players to train together, stating, "It hasn't been easy. The majority of our girls are in school and don't have the luxury of time to train adequately."

The championship saw a record 13 teams from across Nigeria compete, with Team Delta securing third place by defeating Team Rivers 11-8 in the bronze medal match. Coach Dango Michael of Team Rivers attributed their loss to mistakes made by the fielders, saying, "It was a fine game. I appreciate my girls so much, they did very well but it was the little errors from the fielders which cost us the game."

NBSF President Uche Odozor emphasized the need for more private sector sponsorship, while praising individuals who have supported the tournament.

NBSF President, Uche Odozor 

"We need more sponsorship from the private sector to take our softball to the next level," he explained after game with journalist.

"We are working towards establishing a sound and pay-to-watch league in the country, both for those in the university and the masters league - for those who have retired from active play."

The 2025 championship has set a new standard for softball development in Nigeria, with increased participation, improved game quality, and thrilling results. The tournament has showcased the country's softball talent, and with continued support, Nigeria is poised to become a softball powerhouse in Africa.

RESULTS

Final: Adekalu Bulls (Lagos) 7-3 Team Bayelsa 3

Third Place: Team Delta 11-8 Team Rivers