Rivers Hoopers Basketball Africa League history
Rivers Hoopers etched their names in basketball history by becoming the first Nigerian team to advance to the Basketball Africa League (BAL) Playoffs.
In a thrilling double-overtime encounter, they secured a hard-fought 78-71 victory over Rwanda’s Armée Patriotique Rwandaise (APR).
Devine Eke and Peter Olisemeka led the charge for the Hoopers, showcasing their dominance with impressive double-doubles in points and rebounds. Despite a low-scoring game, Will Perry’s contribution of 11 points and seven assists proved crucial in securing the win.
On the other side, Jean Jacques Nshobozwabyosenumukiza led APR’s efforts with a stellar performance, supported by Dario Hunt’s impressive stats.
The victory not only secured a playoff spot for the Hoopers but also marked a historic moment for Nigerian basketball on the continental stage.
Meanwhile, 2022 BAL champions US Monastir of Tunisia continued their resurgence, securing a vital 75-69 victory over AS Douanes. This win kept their playoff hopes alive after a challenging start to the tournament.
With both Rivers Hoopers and US Monastir eyeing playoff berths, the upcoming matches will determine the final contenders from the Sahara Conference. The basketball world eagerly awaits the outcome of these thrilling encounters as the BAL playoffs draw closer.