The National Premier Basketball League (NPBL) Final 8 playoffs semifinals delivered intense basketball action as Rivers Hoopers and Hoops and Read advanced to the final.
Defending champions Rivers Hoopers edged past Gboko City Chiefs in a fiercely contested semifinal, winning 79-73. The Chiefs took a slim 37-34 lead into halftime, but Rivers Hoopers turned the tide in the second half despite interruptions that marred the game.
Kelvin Amayo starred for the Hoopers with 22 points and an impressive 56% field goal accuracy, while Buchi Vincent contributed a double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds. The victory extends Rivers Hoopers’ unbeaten streak to 11 games.
In the day’s earlier clash, Hoops and Read overcame Nile University 67-58. The team showed grit, especially in the second half, dominating the third quarter 16-10 and the fourth quarter 19-15 to seal their spot in the final.
The NPBL Final 8 concludes on Monday, November 18. Rivers Hoopers will look to defend their title when they face Hoops and Read in the final. Meanwhile, Nile University and Gboko City Chiefs will battle for third place.
Beyond the title, Monday’s final carries high stakes, as both finalists will compete for a spot in the prestigious Basketball Africa League.
