{
  "id": 20093383,
  "title": "Nigeria must give local basketball players a chance – Abdulrahman",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/15/nigeria-must-give-local-basketball-players-a-chance-abdulrahman-20093383",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-15T01:40:51.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Punch",
    "slug": "punch",
    "url": "https://punchng.com/nigeria-must-give-local-basketball-players-a-chance-abdulrahman/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Abdulrahman Mohammed, the former D’Tigers coach, speaks with PETER AKINBO about the new NBBF leadership's grassroots-first approach and the challenges facing domestic basketball in Nigeria. He believes that the new president, Mustapha Abdullahi, is ready to give local basketball players a chance, provided there is patience to see the structure in place. Abdulrahman played and coached basketball mainly in Nigeria, so he understands the potential for success domestically. The Women's BAL, with Chiney Ogwumike's involvement, presents a great opportunity for the future of female basketball in the country. However, Abdulrahman suggests that the initiative should be spread across the nation, rather than confined to Lagos, to allow more talents to shine. He doubts that American coaches will prioritize local players, emphasizing the need to give local players a chance, as every player started from the grassroots. Regarding the new BAL franchise model, Abdulrahman notes that the financial aspect and potential changes in leadership could pose challenges for its implementation in Nigeria.",
  "summary": "Former D’Tigers coach, Abdulrahman Mohammed, says Nigeria must give local basketball players a chance to develop the domestic league and grassroots talent. Read More: https://punchng.com/nigeria-must-give-local-basketball-players-a-chance-abdulrahman/",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}