Rivers Hoopers don end dia unbeaten Final Four campaign wit dramatic 92-90 overtime win over Maktown Flyers for Basketball Stadium on Niger Street, Port Harcourt, on Tuesday. The victory come two days afta the KingsMen don clinch dia seventh Nigeria Premier Basketball League title wit one game to spare, 88-76 defeat of Gboko City Chiefs last Monday.
Regulation end level because neither side fit pull clear, before the hosts hold dia nerve for overtime to complete clean run through the Final Four. Hoopers don arrive the tournament as Final Eight winners wit 6-1 record, level on wins wit Maktown, who settle for second on points difference.
The result also answer last season loss to the same opponent. Maktown, wey bin dey compete as Lagos Legends then, edge the 2025 final 74-72, one defeat wey the Port Harcourt side carry enter this campaign. Supporters group spokesperson Afiemo Obaro say the latest win taste like redemption, call am one deserving return to the Basketball Africa League.
Head coach Ogoh Odaudu say im players go first savour the championship before dem turn to the continental stage. The title book Rivers Hoopers place for the 2027 BAL, as e return the club to the competition afta one-year absence. The club hold thanksgiving service for Port Harcourt on Sunday.
