…Rivers Hoopers to face Customs in Day 2, Legends clash with Chiefs
Defending champions Rivers Hoopers defeated Gboko City Chiefs 66–61, while Lagos Legends showed their class with a 95–75 victory over Nigeria Customs in their Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) Final Four opener at the Indoor Sports Hall in Port Harcourt.
All four teams entered the Super Four hoping for a bright start, but it was the reigning champions, Hoopers, and title contenders Lagos Legends who opened their campaigns on a strong note.
Hoping to retain their crown, the KingsMen began their campaign with a narrow but important victory over Gboko City Chiefs. Peter Olisemeka was the standout performer for Rivers Hoopers, recording a team-high 13 points on perfect two-point shooting (5-of-5), adding 11 rebounds, two steals, and a block. Victor Sunday contributed 10 points and four rebounds.
For Gboko City Chiefs, Paul Dibal delivered a strong display with an 18-point, 10-rebound double-double, but his effort wasn’t enough to prevent defeat. Kareem Joseph added 11 points, while Victor Evans finished with 10.
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In the second game, Lagos Legends, arguably the most exciting team of the season, continued their fine form from the Super 8 with another energetic showing, edging Nigeria Customs 93–75.
The Michael Ikema-led side produced a balanced team performance, with three players scoring in double figures. Patrick Abah led all scorers with 19 points, followed by captain Bright Akhuetie with 15, while Lucky Subel added 10. Chingka Garba was influential across the court, grabbing a game-high 10 rebounds and dishing out six assists.
Nigeria Customs also saw strong individual performances. Captain David Godwin posted 18 points, five rebounds, and four assists. Oghenetega David added 17 points, eight rebounds, and four steals. Favour Aboje contributed 15 points, seven rebounds, and four steals, while Ibe Agu scored 12 points with four assists. However, their combined efforts were not enough to secure a win.
Day 2 of the competition will see Gboko City Chiefs attempt to upset high-flying Lagos Legends at 3 p.m., while Rivers Hoopers will aim to secure back-to-back victories when they face Nigeria Customs at 5 p.m.
The Super Four is being played in a round-robin format, with the team that finishes top of the table after Day 3 will be crowned champions of the 2025 NBBF Men’s Basketball League. The eventual winner will also represent Nigeria at the 2026 Basketball Africa League (BAL).
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