By Faith Ajewole
The University of Ibadan is gradually coming alive ahead of the 2026 FASU Afro-Varsity 3Ă—3 Basketball Championship.
With the university serving as host for this year’s edition of the continental tournament, activities have already begun around the Barth Road Basketball Court as athletes arrive and prepare for the competition scheduled to commence on May 31st, 2026.
At the court, basketball players could be seen training intensely and familiarising themselves with the environment ahead of the games. Some University of Ibadan athletes were also present, putting in final preparations as anticipation continues to build across campus.
As of May 28, 2026, approximately two universities from outside Nigeria had already arrived, including those from Kenya. The visiting teams reportedly arrived a day earlier, settled into their accommodation, and later moved to the court for training sessions.
Some of the female athletes from Kenya described their experience so far as positive. According to them, after arriving in Lagos, they were comfortably lodged before being transported to the University of Ibadan for practice sessions.
Speaking of their expectations for the tournament, some of the athletes expressed confidence in their ability to compete for the title, stating that they are determined to “take the cup home.” Others candidly noted that while they are physically peaked, they are still adjusting to the mental pressure of the tournament. It is a field defined by deep expertise, with most of these visiting players boasting an average of seven years of competitive basketball experience.
Speaking on the state of readiness, one of the event’s key organisers, Mr Aloba Stephen, expressed immense satisfaction with the current setup. He confirmed that preparations are moving ahead seamlessly and noted that delegations from the participating countries are steadily trooping into the campus, adding to the growing anticipation.
While the Barth Road court serves as the primary training ground, the tournament will pivot to its grand showcase for the main event.
The highly anticipated matches for both the men’s and women’s categories will take place from Sunday, May 31, through Monday, June 1, 2026, at the prestigious International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, where Africa’s finest will battle for the continental glory.
