Hoopers retain NPBL crown, secure 2025 BAL spot

Rivers Hoopers have reaffirmed their dominance in Nigerian basketball, clinching the 2024 Nigeria Premier Basketball League (NPBL) title with a decisive 71-54 victory over Hoops and Read Basketball Club in the playoffs final held on Monday in Port Harcourt.

This victory ensures their representation of Nigeria at the 2025 Basketball Africa League.

Hoopers’ guard Kelvin Amayo delivered an exceptional performance, scoring 29 points, along with two assists and one rebound.

Amayo was particularly impactful in the first half, contributing 20 points to set the tone for the Port Harcourt-based team’s success.

The King’s Men capped their season with an unblemished record, winning all 12 games from the Conference finals through to the playoffs, securing their sixth league title.

Despite a strong effort from Lagos-based Hoops and Read, who defeated Nile University Spartans in the semi-finals, the reigning champions proved too formidable.

The first quarter ended 24-18 in favor of Hoopers, with the challengers reducing the margin slightly by halftime to 34-29.

However, Hoopers extended their dominance in the third quarter, closing it at 51-41, and sealed their victory in the final quarter, finishing with a comfortable 17-point margin.

Rivers Hoopers now shift their focus to the 2025 Basketball Africa League, where they aim to make a mark on the continental stage.