MFM’s Team Spirit Powers Unbeaten Run Into Semifinals

Posted : 02 October 2026

MFM Basketball Club have reached the semifinals of the Zenith Bank Women’s Basketball League Final 8 Playoffs after extending their unbeaten run to 17 games with a 60–48 victory over Aso Sky Queens in Lagos.

The result ended Aso Sky Queens’ unbeaten campaign while underlining MFM’s consistency as the two-time national champions continued their pursuit of another league title.

MFM established early control of the encounter, taking the first quarter 16–13 before going into halftime with a 32–27 advantage.

Aso Sky Queens responded strongly after the interval, cutting the deficit to three points in the third quarter and putting pressure on the Lagos-based side.

MFM, however, recovered their composure in the decisive period, stepping up their defensive and offensive intensity to pull away and secure the 12-point victory.

For MFM captain Okoh Ukamaka, the team’s remarkable consistency has been built largely on the strong relationship among the players rather than individual brilliance.

“There is this bond we have that no other team can get or have. We are together. We pray and play together, and we work very, very hard,” she stated.

Ukamaka, who holds a PhD in Strategy and Leadership, said her leadership philosophy centres on ensuring that every player feels valued and understands her responsibility within the team.

She stressed that mutual respect and a shared commitment to the team’s objectives had helped MFM maintain its winning mentality.

“There is no discrimination. We don't treat this person separately from the other. When it is time to do the job, we all know this person is my senior, this person is a junior. We respect ourselves, we are here to play and to win,” she added.

The captain also acknowledged the club’s management for providing stability, including maintaining a consistent salary structure that allows the players to concentrate on their responsibilities on the court.

As MFM prepare for the semifinal against Nigeria Customs, Ukamaka said the team would intensify its preparations in pursuit of another league championship.

MFM’s youngest player, Hembam Vera Sewuese, also highlighted the support she receives from her teammates as a major factor in her progress.

“What has been keeping me going is my teammates, the encouragement from my seniors, they don't give up at all, coupled with the zeal deep within me to keep on going. I want to play and play at my very best,” she stated.

Vera, who emerged as the Most Valuable Player at the 2025 Zone 3 FIBA Academies Tournament, said her experience with MFM had provided more than basketball development.

“The bond within the team is impeccable, the love, this is a family, it's everything for me, and I want to make them proud every day of my life, on and off the court,” she concluded.

Elsewhere, First Bank Basketball Club also booked their place in the semifinals after ending Nigeria Customs’ successful run with a commanding 69–47 victory.

Air Warriors finished their Final 8 campaign with a 60–47 win over Victoria Queens, while Bayelsa Blue Whales narrowly defeated Titans 43–39.

The semifinal pairings will see MFM face Nigeria Customs, while First Bank take on Aso Sky Queens for places in the championship final.

MFM’s Team Spirit Powers Unbeaten Run Into Semifinals

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