Rivers Hoopers have reclaimed the Nigeria Premier Basketball League title after completing an unbeaten run in the 2026 Final Four playoffs in Port Harcourt.
According to The PUNCH, the KingsMen secured the championship with a game to spare after beating Gboko City Chiefs 88-76 on Monday before defeating Maktown Flyers 92-90 in overtime on Tuesday.
The victory over Maktown completed a perfect Final Four campaign and confirmed Rivers Hoopers as seven-time NPBL champions.
Hoopers seal title with game to spare
Rivers Hoopers effectively wrapped up the title on Monday after overpowering Gboko City Chiefs.
The team hit 12 three-pointers on their way to an 88-76 victory.
Earlier that day, Maktown Flyers lost 72-64 to Aso SkyHawks, a result that confirmed Hoopers as champions before their final game.
Despite already securing the title, Rivers Hoopers ended the playoffs in style by edging Maktown 92-90 after overtime.
Hoopers avenge last season’s heartbreak
The victory carried extra significance after Maktown defeated Rivers Hoopers 74-72 in last season’s championship game.
That defeat came in the final seconds on Hoopers’ home court.
Head coach Ogoh Odaudu said reclaiming the title was especially satisfying after last season’s disappointment.
“We had a heartbreak at home here last season, and we didn’t want thunder to strike in the same place twice,” Odaudu said.
“We put up a good fight, and right now I’m really happy for the boys, happy for the crowd, happy for Rivers State, and happy that we’re back where we’re supposed to be.”
He added that the team wanted to control the game rather than allow another close finish.
“I’m really, really proud of them,” he said.
Rivers Hoopers return to BAL
The title also earns Rivers Hoopers a place in the 2027 Basketball Africa League.
The qualification marks their return to continental competition after missing out last season.
The KingsMen will now represent Nigeria on the African stage as they look to build on their domestic success.
