Dolphins Basketball Club have emerged champions of the 2025 Zenith Bank Women’s Premier League after edging First Bank 61-55 in a dramatic final decided in overtime at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, on Saturday.
Both teams arrived at the final with unbeaten records in the week-long playoffs.
Dolphins secured their place in the title decider by defeating Royal Aces of Abuja 66-54 in the semi-final, while First Bank narrowly overcame MFM 47-45 to book their spot.
The final began with Dolphins asserting early dominance, racing into a solid lead before taking a slim 33-30 advantage into half-time.
The third quarter saw Dolphins extend their margin into double figures, although First Bank rallied to cut the deficit to nine points heading into the final quarter.
The last quarter produced thrilling end-to-end action.
First Bank, determined to stay alive, clawed their way back into contention and eventually forced a 53-53 tie at the end of regulation time, pushing the contest into overtime.
In the extra period, Dolphins Basketball Club regained control, stifling every attempt from the Elephant Girls while adding eight decisive points to seal a famous 61-55 victory.
The triumph also earned them a prize sum of ₦7.5 million.
Reacting after the match, First Bank coach Juliana Akhere expressed disappointment, stressing the need for her players to adhere more closely to tactical instructions.
Earlier in the third-place playoff, dethroned champions MFM comfortably defeated Royal Aces 70-46 to clinch bronze.
Meanwhile, individual awards were presented to standout performers. MFM’s Idubamo Beggi won the highest assist award, while teammate Wandoo Hembam received the prize for most three-pointers.
Bidemi Ogedengbe also picked up the best rebounder award. Each award carried a cash prize of ₦500,000.