The 2025 Zenith Bank Women’s Basketball Premier League Final 8 tipped off in style at the National Stadium, Surulere, with Dolphins pulling off the biggest upset of Day 1.

Dolphins stunned defending champions Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) 51–41, setting the tone for a thrilling week of action. Anari Favour led the charge with 15 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists, while Okoh Awele delivered a commanding double-double of 13 points, 13 rebounds, and 5 blocks. For MFM, Idubamo Beggi’s 13 points and 2 steals weren’t enough to save the day.

In another tight affair, Royal Aces edged Air Warriors 54–52 in a nail-biter. Okeke Chidimma starred with 15 points and 3 steals, supported by Ogedengbe Bidemi’s double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds. Prosper Deborah was impressive for Air Warriors, finishing with 14 points and 8 rebounds.

Former champions First Bank lived up to their “Elephant Girls” tag, brushing aside Bayelsa Blue Whales 56–36. Rachel Thomas gave the whales a spark with 10 points and 9 rebounds, while Sampson Favour added 9 boards and 3 blocks. But their efforts were overshadowed by First Bank’s ruthless firepower.

In the day’s final matchup, Titans Basketball outlasted Nigeria Customs 51–47 in a scrappy contest. Tomiwa Idris proved decisive with 17 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 steals. Customs’ Cynthia Gbin kept her side alive with three triples on her way to 13 points, but it wasn’t enough.

Day 2 Fixtures (Wednesday, Surulere):

Bayelsa Blue Whales vs. Air Warriors – 10:00 am

Nigeria Customs vs MFM – 12:00pm

Dolphins vs. Titans – 2:00pm

Royal Aces vs. First Bank – 4:00pm