Rivers Hoopers secured a playoff spot in the 2024 Africa Basketball League with a game remaining after their thrilling 78-71 victory over Armee Patriotique Rwandaise in their fourth group game in the Sahara Conference.

They become the first team from Nigeria to achieve the feat.

The KingsMen triumphed after two overtimes, outlasting the resilient Rwandan team, who sought to enhance their playoff prospects in Kigali following two previous wins.

Also read: Ella Onojuvwevwo books Olympics women’s 400m spot with Nigerian best since 2001

Rwandaise led 19-16 after the first quarter, but the Hoopers rebounded strongly, winning the second quarter 15-11 and taking a one-point halftime lead at 31-30.

The Rwandans dominated the third quarter, outscoring the Hoopers 20-10, but the Nigerians fought back, winning the fourth quarter 17-8 and tying the game at 58-58, necessitating overtime. The Hoopers outscored APR 20-13 in overtime, securing a 78-71 victory in an electrifying contest.

Devin Eke and Peter Olisemeka were the standout performers for the Hoopers, both achieving double-doubles. Eke scored a game-high 18 points and grabbed 18 rebounds, while Olisemeka contributed 17 points and a game-high 19 rebounds. Will Perry added 11 points and a team-high seven assists.

Rivers Hoopers join FUS Rabat, Petro de Luanda, and Cape Town Tigers from the Kalahari Conference, as well as Al Ahly and Al Ahly Ly from the Nile Conference.

The playoffs and finals will be held from 24 May to 1 June 2024 in the BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda.