2nd Niger Delta Games: Etoro Bassey Thrilled After Beating Lorelay Holzendorff to Reach Women’s Tennis Final

Team Akwa Ibom tennis player Etoro Bassey has described her victory over Lorelay Holzendorff as “thrilling” after reaching the women’s singles final at the 2nd Niger Delta Games in Benin City, Edo State.

“The feeling is thrilling. Last year (1st Edition of the Niger Delta Games) was basically the same thing as we met in the semifinals and I won and to defeat her again is a good thing for me,” Bassey said after her 2-0 (6-1, 6-1) win in the semifinal held on Monday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.

The 18-year-old said she had no fear going into the match despite Lorelay’s improvement. “I didn’t feel fear at all. I was confident in my game,” she stated.

Bassey also said she is hoping for a repeat of last year’s final against fellow Team Akwa Ibom player, Favour James. “I am really looking forward to a repeat of last years final. I want to face Favour James in the final but if it happens otherwise fine.”

She praised the organisers of the Games for their support and welfare of athletes. “The competition is okay. They are treating us well, giving us good food and everything is okay.

“It has been fun in Edo State. I am getting to meet new people and our team we are supporting each other and so I am enjoying myself here.”

Bassey, who is competing in youth events, also revealed her ambition to reach the top circuit and become a professional tennis player.

The Niger Delta Games is organised by Dunamis-Icon Limited and sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). Events will run until the closing ceremony on February 26