Customs Prevails in Classification Showdown Against Cameroon Champions Overdose Up Station
Last Updated on
December 18, 2023
Elango Mbotona
Staff Writer
Following their respective losses to Sporting (ASC) and Inter Clube in the quarter-finals, Overdose Up Station and the Nigerian Customs engaged in an enticing matchup for the 5th to 8th positions. Despite the lower stakes, the game held significance in determining the standings between these two teams. The first quarter unfolded as a high-scoring affair, with a slim 1-point lead of 18-17 in favor of the Nigerian Customs.
As the second quarter commenced, Overdose Up Station surged ahead with a 3-point lead at 20-18, momentarily putting the Customs on the back foot. However, the Nigerian Customs swiftly turned the tide, unleashing chaos on the court and establishing a commanding 13-point lead with a halftime score of 41-28.
Nkem Akaraiwe emerged as a standout performer, already contributing an impressive 24 points and 6 rebounds by the midpoint of the game. The Customs' dynamic play and Akaraiwe's stellar performance proved instrumental in their significant lead.
In the third quarter, Overdose Up Station initiated a quick 8-0 run, prompting the head coach of Customs to call for a timeout in an attempt to halt their momentum. Despite the pause, Overdose continued to assert themselves, maintaining their lead and leaving the Nigerian Customs trailing by 3 points.
However, Customs swiftly responded, with Ebere Cordelia and Favour Chiamaka sinking consecutive threes to reclaim the lead. Despite this effort, Overdose remained persistent, implementing a solid full-court press that allowed Mabou Talla to tie the game at 52-52 with a successful free throw at the end of the third quarter.
As the final quarter unfolded, the tables turned dramatically. Overdose Up Station found themselves in a challenging position, enduring a scoreless six-minute stretch as Customs embarked on a decisive 8-0 run. Nkem Akaraiwe, along with her teammates, spearheaded this offensive surge, ultimately contributing 28 points and 8 rebounds. The relentless effort propelled Customs to a 67-58 victory, securing the win in this classification matchup.
