Rivers Hoopers have stepped up their preparations for the 2026 Nigeria Premier Basketball League (NPBL) Phase Three, with interim coach Ronald Alalibo calling for unity and complete concentration from the six-time Nigerian champions.
The KingsMen, competing in the Atlantic Conference, are seeking to reclaim their place at the summit of Nigerian basketball after recording a 4-1 mark in Phase One and a 6-1 record in Phase Two.
Quick facts
- Rivers Hoopers are six-time Nigerian champions.
- The team competes in the Atlantic Conference.
- Its records were 4-1 in Phase One and 6-1 in Phase Two.
- Phase Three will use a round-robin format.
- The playoff dates and location have not yet been confirmed.
With the playoffs approaching, Alalibo said every player would be essential as the coaching staff works to sharpen the team’s understanding and tactical execution.
He stressed that all members of the squad must be available and committed to the common objective of winning this year’s league. Alalibo added that the group must arrive with full conviction and combine mentally, physically and in every other aspect.
The interim coach has already singled out the roster’s strength in depth and its defensive performance during the first two phases. Those campaigns, held in Ibadan and Enugu respectively, were shaped by important displays from both the starters and the reserve players.
Captain Victor Koko and vice-captain Buchi Vincent lead the group on court. John Idoga, Abel Offia, Chinedu Nwaogu, Anaiye Johnson and Victor Sunday provide scoring threats, while Samuel Sani, Eric Okechukwu and Aroko Tom have also supplied valuable support.
Rivers Hoopers will enter the playoff stage aiming to preserve their tactical discipline and cut down on avoidable mistakes as the level of competition rises.
The Atlantic Conference qualifiers will face Maktown Flyers, Hoops & Read and Lagos Raptors. The field will also include Savannah Conference representatives Aso Sky Hawks, 313 Warriors, Gboko City Chiefs and Kano Pillars, with all eight teams scheduled to meet in a round-robin competition.
The organisers have not yet released the playoff schedule or confirmed the venue.
