Marcel Esonwune, formerly part of the USA’s three-on-three basketball Olympic pool, made an emotional return to represent Nigeria in 2023—a decision that came with sacrifices and challenges.

“It wasn’t easy leaving the USA’s program, which offers more opportunities,” Esonwune admitted in a revealing interview with Brila FM.

“But I’ve been visiting Nigeria for years, and the chance to represent my fatherland was something I couldn’t pass up.”

Esonwune’s return to Nigerian basketball coincided with the 2023 Africa Zone Qualifiers, where the team defied all odds to reach the final. However, their journey was far from smooth.

With minimal preparation and no institutional backing, Esonwune described the campaign as “a miracle.”

“I was already planning a vacation in Nigeria when the opportunity came. We had just two practice sessions in Egypt before the games,” he said.

“I had to take the lead on the court and tell the team, ‘This is how we’re going to win.’”

Despite the team’s efforts, systemic issues continue to plague Nigerian basketball. The federation’s inability to fund or organize tournaments has left the sport in a precarious state.

Marcel Esonwune highlighted the contrast between Nigeria and other African countries like Egypt and Benin, which invest heavily in three-on-three.

“Egypt didn’t win a single game at the global qualifiers because they lacked the experience needed outside Africa. But at least they got there,” he said.

“We need funding, grassroots tournaments, and a unified strategy if we’re serious about competing on the world stage.”

Esonwune’s story reveals both the talent within Nigerian basketball and the systemic challenges holding it back.

For Marcel Esonwune, the hope remains that his sacrifices will inspire change.

“We’ve shown what’s possible with almost nothing. Imagine what we could do with real support,” he concluded.