NWBL: Dolphins Begin Title Defence With Win As Victoria Queens Make Strong Debut
By Saheed Afolabi
Reigning champions Dolphins made a successful start to the defence of their Nigeria Women’s Premier Basketball League title with a 59-46 victory over First Deep Water in Lagos on Sunday.
The Lagos-based side began the second game of the Atlantic Conference at the National Stadium in Surulere on a shaky note but eventually pulled clear to claim the win.
Earlier in the conference opener, debutants Victoria Queens delivered a statement performance, thrashing IGP Queens 69-39.
Two more potentially explosive matches are scheduled for later on Sunday. First Bank will face Royal Aces from 4pm, while MFM take on Bayelsa Blue Whales at 6pm.
The Savannah Conference of the league will be held in Rayfield, Jos, Plateau State, from 17 to 24 August 2026. Teams in action include Nigeria Customs, Titans, Nasarawa Amazons, Kada Angels, Plateau Rocks, Air Warriors, Ham Warriors and debutants Aso Sky Queens.
Phase 2 of the league is expected to begin in the first week of September, with Rivers State in contention to host. The top four teams from each conference will advance to the finals in Lagos.
