Rivers Hoopers head coach, Ogoh Odaudu, has commended his team's resilience in their opening game of the 2026 Nigeria Premier Basketball League (NPBL) Final Four, where they defeated Aso Sky Hawks 74-60. The win avenged their only postseason loss to the same opponents in the playoff finale. Odaudu attributed the team's success to their ability to stay resilient, composed, and disciplined throughout the game.
The game got off to a fierce start, with Rivers Hoopers leading 39-28 at halftime, thanks to sharp long-range shooting. Nikolaos Okekuoyen contributed 11 points, including 2-of-2 from beyond the arc, while centre Peter Olisemeka added 8 points, 12 rebounds, and 5 assists. The team's performance was a significant turnaround from their earlier defeat to Aso Sky Hawks.
Aso Sky Hawks fought back in the third quarter, cutting the deficit to 55-49, and further reducing it to 57-55 early in the fourth quarter. However, Rivers Hoopers' Abel Offia, the game-high scorer with 28 points, helped seal the win with crucial three-pointers. Offia also grabbed 7 rebounds and went 5-of-10 from beyond the arc.
The fourth quarter saw intense defensive pressure and technical fouls against both teams. Omar Abada, Tunisian point guard, initiated a 15-0 run for Rivers Hoopers with a three-pointer, which helped them extend their lead to 72-55. Johnson Anaiye contributed 9 points off the bench to support the team's surge.
Coach Odaudu acknowledged that the first game was always going to be a challenge but praised his team's depth and strategy. He noted that Aso Sky Hawks' fouling in the first half would take a toll on them in the fourth quarter, which ultimately proved decisive. The win sets the tone for Rivers Hoopers' campaign in the Final Four.
The victory marked a crucial start for Rivers Hoopers, who are seeking to make an impact in the NPBL. With two more games to go, the team will look to maintain their momentum and stay focused. According to Offia, the earlier defeat to Aso Sky Hawks served as motivation for the win, saying, "We needed to lose that playoff game to win this one."
Rivers Hoopers' win over Aso Sky Hawks sets up an exciting competition in the NPBL Final Four. The team's performance will be crucial in determining their chances of advancing further in the league. Key players, including Offia, Okekuoyen, and Olisemeka, will be expected to maintain their form to help the team achieve success.
Key points
- Rivers Hoopers began their 2026 NPBL Final Four campaign with a 74-60 win over Aso Sky Hawks.
- The team's resilience and strategy were key factors in their victory.
- Abel Offia led the team with 28 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 three-pointers.
