Zenith Basketball League Champions FIB Continue Winning Streak at WBLA Zone 3 Qualifiers

Zenith Basketball League Champions FIB Continue Winning Streak at WBLA Zone 3 Qualifiers

The First Bank Elephant Girls secured their second consecutive victory at the Women's Basketball League Africa (WBLA) Zone 3 qualifiers in Abidjan, delivering a commanding 70–56 performance against Benin's powerhouse club, Energie.

The Nigerian side put in a good shift, led by Tobiloba Ogedengbe, who dominated the court with a game-high 14 points and seven rebounds. She was powerfully supported by Haminatu Ayodeji and Abigail Isaac, who combined for an additional 22 points. Despite a standout performance from Energie's Nassarath Arouna Mama, who recorded an impressive double-double with 14 points and 12 rebounds, her efforts were not enough to turn the tide against the determined First Bank squad.

Playing at the Palais des Sports de Treichville, the 2025 Zenith Basketball League champions established an early lead from the tip-off, setting a good tone as they exchanged and distributed passes that led to easy baskets, closing out a 20-14 lead. After launching a devastating 12-0 run to seize immediate control of the game,  the explosive start laid the foundation for their performance on the day, as they built a game-high lead of 15 points that left their opponents scrambling to respond.

The momentum continued in the second quarter as the team's defensive pressure intensified, and they capitalised on turnovers with a fast-break layup that pushed their lead into double digits and sent the team into halftime with confidence.

Facing a resilient Energie squad after the break, First Bank encountered their most formidable challenge as the Beninese team came out with renewed energy, sinking a series of outside shots to claw their way back into the game in the third quarter.

However, the Elephant Girls maintained their composure in the final period. With the outcome still in the balance, veteran leader Tobiloba Ogedengbe took control, sinking a crucial turnaround jumper to halt Energie's run. She then anchored the defence, grabbing a key defensive rebound and an outlet pass that led to a swift fast break, effectively sealing the game.

In the end, offensive execution was flawless during key moments, punctuated by a decisive 8-0 scoring a run that further solidified their advantage.

This relentless control is best exemplified by the time leading, with First Bank Basketclub dictating the pace and holding the lead for an overwhelming 36 minutes and 53 seconds, while their rivals could only manage a fleeting 24 seconds at the front. It was a masterclass in sustained pressure and control from start to finish.

Action continues on Sunday, with First Bank going head-to-head against Friends Basketball Association. At the same time, Energie BBC will square off against the home team, CSA, as the tournament determines qualification for the continental championship.

[Photography Courtesy of FIBA/WBLA]