First Bank Dominates Etoile Filante to Take Command of Zone 3 Basketball Qualifiers
First Bank of Nigeria confirmed their status as favorites in the Zone 3 African Clubs Basketball Qualifiers in Lomé, defeating Etoile Filante 76-43 in Sunday’s final match of the day.
The Togolese crowd did their best to support their team, but Etoile Filante struggled to maintain their early momentum. The home side opened the scoring, yet after five minutes, the Nigerians had already gained control. Atosu Upe, leading the charge with 22 points and 2 rebounds, showcased the speed and skill that proved too much for the Togolese women. By the end of the first quarter, Nigeria led 24-17.
Despite a brief resurgence led by Adjoussi Amah, Etoile Filante could only reduce the deficit slightly, trailing 36-29 at halftime. In the third quarter, First Bank delivered a defensive and offensive masterclass, with Idoko Onyimowoh Patient, Akashili Nkechu, and Ukato Magdalene (16 points, 2 rebounds) taking control and extending the lead to 57-32.
The Togolese side, with Houessou Christelle contributing 10 points and 6 rebounds, was unable to respond in the final quarter, ultimately conceding the match. Despite the heavy defeat, Etoile Filante remains determined to challenge Nigeria again, likely aiming for a rematch in the tournament’s final.
Earlier in the men’s competition, ASPAC of Benin defeated Nigerian Customs 70-51, while Kano Pillars secured a win against Elan BBC of Benin in the opening match of the second day.
