IBADAN — The fifth edition of the Dreams Basketball Tournament ended on a thrilling note at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Liberty Road, Ibadan, as Showtyme Hoopers completed a historic three-peat, defeating Beavers Basketball 86–76 in a pulsating men’s final. The triumph further cements Showtyme’s dominance of the competition after their 2024 championship success, when they defeated Hoop Dreams Nigeria 74–49 in the final.
The men’s final was a fiercely contested affair, with both sides trading baskets in a back-and-forth battle that kept spectators engaged. The encounter carried additional significance because the two teams had already met in the opening game of the tournament, where Showtyme narrowly prevailed 77–71. Beavers once again pushed the defending champions, but Showtyme’s experience, composure and championship pedigree ultimately proved decisive as they pulled away to secure the 86–76 victory and another title.
The women’s final also produced a dominant performance, with Showtyme Angels defeating Dodan Warriors Amazon 70–28 to claim the women’s crown. The victory continues the strong tradition of Showtyme teams at the Dreams Basketball Tournament; Showtyme Angels had previously won the women’s title in 2024, defeating Amazon of Lagos 72–54. The tournament has consequently become a significant platform for both male and female players to compete, gain experience and showcase their talents against quality opposition.
Following the finals, Showtyme Hoopers received ₦1.5 million as champions, while runners-up Beavers Basketball went home with ₦750,000. Individual excellence was also recognised, with cash prizes presented to the tournament’s standout players: Mohammed Abdul-Salam and Tobi Bello of Showtyme Hoopers, Wasiu of Beavers Basketball, Chinedu of Delta Force and Ikechukwu Okparadu of Gidi Giants. The awards reinforced the tournament’s emphasis not only on team success but also on identifying and rewarding outstanding individual performances.
Beyond the trophies and prize money, the Dreams Basketball Tournament continues to fulfil its developmental mission of bringing veterans and emerging talents together in a competitive environment. Convener and Just Help Africa founder, Tunji Soroye, has consistently described the tournament as his way of giving back to the community where he grew up, while creating opportunities for young basketball players to test themselves, identify areas for improvement and gain the exposure that competitive games provide. That vision was evident from the tournament’s earlier editions, which Soroye said were inspired by his own experience as a young player who had plenty of training but limited opportunities to compete. With Showtyme Hoopers now three-time champions and the competition continuing to attract emerging talents, the fifth edition has provided another significant chapter in the growth of grassroots basketball in Ibadan and beyond.
