He noted that the yearly tournament which started like mere recreation is now a gathering for future basketball stars. He challenged competitors in the tourney not to leave the championship without putting in their best to ensure growth. In the exhibition game dunked off by Mark, veterans of Otukpo slammed men from Abuja 23 to 17 points.

Alex Nwora of the ERIE Community College, Buffalo, New York, Col. Sam Ahmedu of FIBA - Africa and Obonle Ogbole; coordinator of Mark D Ball competition hailed Mark for promoting sporting activities in the country.