The head coach of the Athletes for Peace Basketball team, Fubara Onyeneno, has charged his players to remain confident despite their narrow seven-point defeat to defending champions, Marktown Flyers in the 2026 Nigeria Basketball Men’s League opener.
Reacting after the game, at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium indoor sports Hall, the coach attributed the loss partly to the inexperience of his squad but praised their determination against a seasoned opposition.
“I think I’ll just say it was a bit of nonchalance on the part of the players, not necessarily the defence. It’s our first game in the league with players who are all new in the league, but I know going forward we will do better than what we did today.”
Despite the defeat, the tactician commended his players for standing up to a strong Marktown, just returning from continental engagement.
The coach added that the experience gained from the encounter would help the team improve as the competition progresses.
“I think going forward we’ll do better.”
Looking ahead to the next fixture, the coach believes his side will produce an even stronger performance.
“I think the next game will be better than this one. We are looking forward to improvement and better results from the boys.”
Up Next for Athletes for Peace is Coal City Blazers Tuesday May 18 afternoon