Ado Salisu
The Nigerian basketball community has been thrown into mourning following the death of former AJUBA champion and international standout, Lawal “Larry” Garba, a figure whose legacy continues to resonate across generations of the sport.
Garba rose to global prominence after emerging as the highest scorer at the 1987 FIBA World Junior Championship in Bormio, Italy, where his brilliance on the court earned him international recognition.
From his early days with Bauchi State Intermediate at Oluyole ’79 to representing Nigeria at both junior and senior levels, Garba’s journey defined an era marked by passion, excellence, and national pride.
Beyond his exploits on the court, he remained deeply committed to the growth of basketball in Nigeria. Even in his final days, members of the basketball fraternity maintained close contact with him and his family, reflecting the strong bonds he built over the years.
After graduating from Ahmadu Bello University, Garba went on to serve meritoriously as Bauchi State Director of Sports, contributing significantly to grassroots and elite sports development before his retirement.
Leading tributes, former NBA star and FIBA ambassador, Olumide Oyedeji, described Garba as a pillar of Nigerian basketball whose legacy will endure.
“This is a painful loss for all of us. Lawal Garba was more than a player; he was a symbol of dedication and excellence. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time,” Oyedeji said.
Garba’s international career saw him compete against top players of his era, including Larry Johnson, Stacey Augmon, and Toni Kukoč, yet he carved his own place in history through outstanding performances and scoring ability.
Fondly known as “Larry,” he is remembered not only for his achievements but also for his humility, leadership, and unwavering love for the game.
He is survived by his wife and children, who continue to uphold the legacy of a man who gave his all to basketball and to life.
As tributes continue to pour in, one thing remains clear: Lawal Garba’s name will forever be etched in the history of Nigerian basketball, and his influence will live on wherever the game is played.