Ahead of the forthcoming Afrobasket tournaments, the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has appointed coaches for both Da Tigers and Da Tigress.
Ayo Bakare, the coach of the senior men’s basketball team at the London 2012 Olympics, has been retained, while Scott Nnaji was appointed as coach of the national female team.
Ayo Bakare had tendered his resignation letters after the London 2012 Olympics, his reappointment, according to the newly re- elected President of the Federation, Tijani Umar, is to ensure continuity and make sure only people with faith in the Nigerian project are given such leadership task.
Umar also disclosed that there was no sentiment in the selection process of the national team coaches.
“We are bringing continuity, sustainability and people who have tremendous belief in the country. Coaches are not chosen on sentiment but what they can bring to the table,” said Umar.
Adressing the issue of poor relationships between players and coaches, Mr Umar said: “This is a great opportunity for every player playing for the national team; playing for the national team is like giving back to the country. Coaches are in charge and no player is expected to disrespect them. If any player does not like a particular coach, he will have to stay away from the team.”
The coaches are expected to resume work with immediate effect.
Below are the names of the appointed coaches:
Men’s Team- Coaching Staff.
• Ayo Bakare- Head Coach.
• Sani Ahmed- Assistant Coach.
• Ayinla Johnson- Assistant Coach.
• Abdulrahaman Muhammed- Assistant Coach.
• Ogoh Odaudu- Assistant Coach.
Women’s Team- Coaching Staff.
• Scott Nnaji- Head Coach.
• Lateef Erinfolami- Assistant Coach.
• Adewunmi Aderemi- Assistant Coach.
• Emmanuel Odah- Assistant Coach.
