Defending champions Rivers Hoopers will look to retain their Nigeria Premier Basketball League crown as Port Harcourt hosts the Final 8 playoffs from November 14 to 18.
Hoopers, drawn in Group B, will face tough competition from Nile University (Abuja), Kwara Falcons (Kwara), and Gombe Bulls (Gombe).
Head Coach Ogoh Odaudu admits the stakes are high, with his team carrying the dual burden of defending their title and representing their state.
“I must admit that we will be playing under pressure given the fact that we are the reigning champions and also playing at home,” Odaudu said.
“But we will stay focused for the task ahead as we give maximum respect to other teams in the Final Eight. We will approach each game as if it’s our last.”
The team’s first test comes on November 14 when Nile University takes on Kwara Falcons, followed by Group A’s opening clash between Gboko City Chiefs (Benue) and Police Baton (Lagos). Group A also features Hoops and Read (Lagos) and Kano Pillars (Kano).
Teams are expected to arrive in Port Harcourt on November 13, with games beginning the next day.
