AT least 32 teams, including private and public schools, in Lagos will participate in the second edition of the six-day D. K. Olukoya Basketball Competition for Secondary Schools, set to dunk off on October 4.The organisers are hopeful that the event, holding at the indoor hall of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and International School, Lagos (ISL) will unearth more talents from the schools.According to the coordinator of the event, Michael Ojo, the maiden edition was staged in May 2010 while this edition will kick off on October 4 as part of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles (MFM) Ministries outreach.For this year, he said: 'The competition will feature 32 schools at a preliminary stage in a group format. The teams will be drawn into eight groups while the top teams in each group progress to the knockout stage.'We expect to have bridged the gulf between talent and opportunities with success in this event. With grassroots basketball promotion as our specific target, this would by all means be achievable in measurable and tangible terms.'According to him, the tourney is expected to lay a good foundation for high moral standards and individual empowerment for every participant.He added: 'Academic excellence is also promoted through scholarship packages to be awarded exceptional teams and players. Coaches would also be recognised and honoured as genuine team leaders, motivators and catalysts for success.'However, he warned teams against the use of mercenaries in the tourney that is meant to promote honesty and good morals among the students.Corona Secondary School defeated Doregos Private Academy to win the maiden edition. Among the schools expected in this edition are St Gregory's College, Victory Group of Schools and ISL.Others are Supreme Education Foundation, Bellina College, Sacred Heart College, Legacy High School, Ronik, Towergate Private School and Dansol College. Former national coach, Ganiyu Otenigbagbe, will lead the technical crew at the championship.
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