Imo State Commissioner for Sports Obinna Onyeocha has commended basketball player Chiney Ogwumike for helping bring a new Basketball Africa League (BAL) court to Owerri, saying the venue will provide athletes throughout the state with a base for training and competition.
During an inspection of the construction site, Onyeocha said Owerri had been chosen through Ogwumike’s work and her Queens of the Continent initiative. He explained that the development is one of six facilities planned under the broader scheme, with Imo’s court serving as Nigeria’s project.
Onyeocha applauded Chiney, whom he called an ambassador and daughter of the state, for securing the project and urged her and her family to continue their efforts.
He also expressed appreciation to Governor Hope Uzodimma for his backing, guidance and assistance throughout the project.
The commissioner said construction started immediately after the necessary approval was received. Following consultations with the project team, he added, the facility is expected to be commissioned in November.
Onyeocha described the development as a major undertaking that could rank among the finest basketball courts in Nigeria and Africa. He said it would be built to a high standard and told the people of Imo that they were fortunate to receive such a facility at this stage.
The planned complex will include a basketball court, a practice section, three toilets, two changing rooms and a washing facility. It will also feature a solar-powered borehole to supply water.
Once completed, the venue will be transferred to the Ministry of Sports through the Imo Sports Commission, Onyeocha said.
He said the state would assume complete responsibility for upkeep and that every Imo resident would have access to the facilities. The venue will host competitions and may also be used by the BAL, although ownership will remain with Imo State.
Onyeocha added that the court would strengthen preparation for athletes representing the state in domestic and international events by giving them improved training infrastructure.
The commissioner also praised Chiney’s older sister, Nneka Ogwumike, after the veteran announced that she would retire from the WNBA at the conclusion of the 2026 season.
Onyeocha said he was unsure how best to express his gratitude to the Ogwumike family and recalled watching Nneka’s games online, describing her as an exceptional basketball player.
He said Nneka’s performances made it seem as though she still had another 10 to 15 years at the highest level, and thanked her for bringing honour to Imo State and Nigeria.
