Rivers Hoopers reclaim NPBL title

Rivers Hoopers emerged victorious in the 2026 Nigeria Premier Basketball League, securing the championship title with a flawless performance throughout the Final Four playoffs in Port Harcourt. The KingsMen had already clinched the title by a game's end, following an 88-76 win over Gboko City Chiefs on Monday. Their championship was sealed with a 92-90 overtime triumph against Maktown Flyers on Tuesday.

The KingsMen's victory over Gboko City Chiefs was fueled by their impressive 12 three-pointers in the game. Earlier, Maktown Flyers had lost to Aso SkyHawks with a score of 72-64, which confirmed the Hoopers as champions with a match still to be played. Tuesday's win over Maktown Flyers completed a perfect run for the KingsMen, marking their seventh NPBL title.

Head coach Ogoh Odaudu expressed immense joy at the championship's conclusion. "I'm really, really happy," Odaudu stated. "We had a heartbreak at home last season, and we didn't want thunder to strike in the same place twice. 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."

The title secured the KingsMen's participation in the 2027 Basketball Africa League, marking their return to the continental stage after a season-long hiatus.