Rivers Hoopers kick off 2024 BAL with victory over AS Douanes
Nigerian basketball champions, Rivers Hoopers, began their 2024 Basketball African League (BAL) campaign with a solid 77-68 win against AS Douanes at the Dakar Arena.
Led by head coach Ogor Odaudu, the Hoopers fielded a strong starting lineup consisting of Will Perry, Kelvin Amayo, Peter Olisemeka, Devine Eke, and John Wilkins.
Despite a strong start from last year’s finalists, AS Douanes, who took the lead in the first quarter with a score of 23-18, the Hoopers fought back fiercely. Devine Eke’s impressive performance helped them narrow the gap in the second quarter, winning 19-16.
Maintaining their momentum, Rivers Hoopers dominated the third quarter, outscoring AS Douanes 21-9 and securing a 10-point lead. In the final quarter, they sealed the victory with a score of 21-20.
Devine Eke emerged as the standout player for the Hoopers, contributing 31 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 assists. Will Perry followed closely with 15 points, seven rebounds, and three assists, while John Wilkins added 14 points and three assists to the team’s tally.
With this promising start, Rivers Hoopers are set to face Rwanda’s Armée Patriotique in their next game at the Dakar Arena. As they continue their BAL journey, expectations are high for another strong showing from the Nigerian representatives.
