By Eddie Akalonu

Chief coach, chief coach of First Deep Water Basketball club of Lagos, Lati Erinfolarin has said his team are ready for the 17th edition of the FIBA_-Africa Champions Club for Women from December 4 to 10, 2011 at the National Stadium, Lagos.

In expressing his optimism, he said First Deep Water would put in their best to ensure they win the title. “We are set for any opposition, we are capable because a lot of training has been put in by every member of the team. We are very eager to take on our opponents. The championship features eight teams representing six countries.

The former Ebun Comets Basketball club captain and Nigerian international who spoke in Lagos shortly before rounding off a training session with the side said his optimism was based on the performance of his players in the 2010/2011 domestic women’s league season which they won for a second straight time.

“I would like to appeal to all basketball lovers in Nigeria to troop out in their large numbers to give us the maximum support because we have every chance of causing an upset by outplaying some of the powerful major lineups in the competition.”

Angola is represented by two teams Maculosso and defending champions Inter Clube who are seen as the title favourites on paper while Nigeria will also feature a past winner of the cup, First Bank.

The other teams are Arc-en-ciel of Congo DR, O.C.E of Algeria, Ports Authority of Kenya, and I.N.J.S of Cameroon. With two teams and home backing, Nigeria is also expected to mount a strong challenge despite the touted high strength of the Angolans.

“ I think we have a strong chance. It will be wonderful if we achieve that because doing it will be good for the game in our country,” he said, adding “we can use a lot of home support as motivation. We are appealing to lovers of the game in Lagos to encourage us by coming out to cheer. ”