Rivers Hoopers Reflect On Season Of Near Misses, African Acclaim

As the year 2025 draws to a close, Rivers Hoopers Head Coach, Ogoh Odaudu, has offered a comprehensive reflection on what he described as a “demanding and eventful” season for the Port Harcourt-based basketball club. Despite narrowly missing out on domestic glory, the KingsMen once again solidified their position among Africa’s basketball elite.

The Hoopers began their competitive year with a second-place finish at the Louis Edem Invitational Tournament in Lagos, falling to Benin Republic’s ASPAC in the final. Their success in the 2024 Nigeria Premier Basketball League (NPBL) then saw them represent Nigeria in the Basketball Africa League (BAL) Season Five.

Competing in the Kalahari Conference in Kigali, Rwanda, Rivers Hoopers made a strong start with impressive victories over FUS Rabat and 2023 runners-up Stade Malien. Despite two defeats to Egypt’s Al Ittihad Alexandria, they secured second place in the conference, earning automatic qualification for the BAL Playoffs in Pretoria, South Africa.

While they couldn’t replicate their historic third-place finish from the previous BAL season, Odaudu expressed satisfaction with the team’s continued presence at the top tier of African basketball. “We didn’t quite get the result that we wanted at the BAL this year, but we’re happy that we made it out of the conference and into the finals. Being among the top eight clubs in Africa is not an easy feat,” he remarked.

Domestically, the KingsMen were aiming for a third consecutive NPBL title. After an unbeaten run through the Group and Inter-Group phases, they were ultimately edged out by eventual champions Lagos Legend in two “agonisingly narrow losses” – first in the Playoffs Phase and then in the Grand Finale.

Reflecting on the domestic campaign, the veteran coach remained philosophical. “Losing only two games out of all the games we played is a great achievement. It’s really heartbreaking to lose the final the way we did, but I think we did well. It also shows that we are not invincible, and that’s a good thing—it’s an eye-opener.”

Odaudu, who was named BAL Season Four Coach of the Year, lauded the “phenomenal” Rivers Hoopers squad of 2025, highlighting the development of young talents like Favour Komene and Johnnywalker John Idoga. He also extended his gratitude to the club’s backroom staff, management, and the “exceptional” and passionate supporters.

Looking ahead to 2026, Odaudu remains optimistic. “For 2025, we must hold our heads high… We’re already looking forward to 2026—to do what needs to be done and reclaim our rightful position.”