Africa’s first professional flag football league returns this weekend as the Showtime Bowl Series XIV kicks off at the Showtime Arena. The new season signals another milestone for Showtime, which has evolved from a grassroots concept into a fast-growing platform redefining sports entertainment and athlete opportunities in Nigeria.
The 2026 season will feature 10 teams, including Rivers Alphas, Lagos Knights, Ogun Horns, Delta Braves, Abia Warriors, Lagos Greenbacks, Lagos Rebels, Cross River Ikan, Ibom Raptors, and Delta Panthers. With wider regional representation, the league continues to expand its national footprint while raising the level of competition.
Opening day fixtures on March 22 promise intense action, with matchups such as Rivers Alphas vs Lagos Knights and Lagos Rebels vs Cross River Ikan headlining the schedule. Each team enters with distinct ambitions, ranging from title redemption to defending pride, all targeting the coveted Showtime Bowl XIV crown.
Founder and President Azeez Amida described the new season as a defining moment for the sport, emphasizing Showtime’s mission to build a professional ecosystem for athletes. Beyond competition, the league continues to drive youth development, inclusivity, and global visibility for flag football in Nigeria.
