I Want To Win Afrobasket

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 Rashidat Odun Sadiq is a Nigerian basketball player, who currently plays for Antakya Belediye Basketball Club in Turkey. In this interview, she spoke about her career in Turkey and the state of the game in the country

 

We don’t always see a professional player of your stature in the country, what brought you home?

I came to organise a 3- day training clinic tagged Rashidat Sadiq Basketball Foundation for local female players between the ages of 13 and 18.

How was the clinic?

It was a huge success. Though we were faced with some challenges, at the end of the day, it was described by both the participants and the public as successful.

Considering the huge financial implications, why did you decide to venture into such project?

It was my own way of giving back to the society that brought me to the limelight. I discovered that male players are always given attention than their female counterparts in the country and I think I should fill the gap. It was a capital intensive project but with the help of God, local coaches and others that partnered with me from America, we were able to make it a success.

Can you describe the league in Turkey?

Actually we are currently on break. The league is very competitive and the level of followership is great. I am going back to the U.S. to keep myself in good shape ahead of next season.

It is a dream of every player to play in the WNBA in the U.S., don’t you aspire for that?

Not really, because I had played for colleges in the States and some other clubs. However, if any good offer comes my way and my agent feels it’s a good one, I will go for it.

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How would you describe your performance in Turkey last season?

It was brilliant because I contributed immensely to my club’s success and I got some individual awards. We did well on the log and we are looking forward to a better outing next season.

Now that you are at home what can you say about Nigerian basketball?

I feel really sad because things are not getting better with Nigerian basketball. Instead of growth and development, the sport is deteriorating. It is a shame on those handling basketball here.

If you are in a position to advice those at the helm of affairs, what would you tell them?

They need to provide training facilities in all local government areas for the players. This will enable them improve on their skills.

How do you see the chances of D’Tigress at Afrobasket in Mali?

The target still remains winning the championship and securing the Olympic ticket. We are working towards that as the second phase of camping resumed few days ago in the U.S. If we continue to work very hard and with a bit of luck on our side, we can achieve our objectives in Bamako. Personally, I want to win Afrobasket.

What is your take on the second phase of the Zenith Women League that dunked off last week?

I think it is still competitive because when I spoke with a couple of local players, they seemed very eager to get the ball rolling.

What advice do you have for young boys and girls aspiring to be basketball stars like you?

All I can tell them is to continue to work very hard and play harder. In due time, God will reward them for their efforts.

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