Rivers Hoopers overpower Kwara Falcons to stay unbeaten in NPBL Phase Two

Posted : 24 June 2026

Rivers Hoopers extended their flawless run in the 2026 Nigeria Premier Basketball League (NPBL) Phase Two with an emphatic 82-62 victory over Kwara Falcons at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, recording a fourth straight win despite missing two key players.

The Port Harcourt-based side overcame an early setback after surrendering a 10-0 lead to trail 18-17 at the end of the opening quarter, before responding in dominant fashion.

A blistering 13-2 run at the start of the second quarter, inspired by John Idoga and Victor Sunday, restored Rivers Hoopers' control of the contest.

The KingsMen outscored Kwara Falcons 24-15 in the period to take a comfortable eight-point advantage into halftime.

The momentum continued after the break as Rivers Hoopers tightened their defensive grip while producing an efficient offensive display, winning the third quarter 21-10 before edging the final period 20-19 to seal a convincing 20-point triumph.

Idoga starred with a game-high 21 points for the second consecutive outing after matching the same tally against Hoops & Read.

The forward, who accounted for his side's opening eight points and had 17 by halftime, attributed his performance to the collective effort of his teammates.

"It all comes down to teamwork. We all came out to win and play our best basketball. Without my teammates, I wouldn't have scored as many points as I did. Credit goes to them for setting screens, delivering timely passes, and covering up my lapses," Idoga said.

Victor Sunday contributed 14 points, while Chinedu Nwaogu added 12, including a late three-pointer that rounded off the scoring a day after celebrating his birthday.

Anaiye Johnson and Buchi Vincent also finished with nine points apiece as Rivers Hoopers connected on six shots from beyond the arc.

The victory came without the services of Abel Offia, who was unavailable due to illness, and captain Victor Koko, who remained sidelined with a back injury.

Assistant coach Victor James praised his players for maintaining their intensity despite a demanding run of fixtures.

"I was pleased with the team effort. We have played four straight games, and fatigue is beginning to set in. I liked the fact that we worked together as a team with the right effort, pushing ourselves to make sure we got this win," James said.

He also highlighted tactical adjustments that helped unlock the team's attack.

"There were some important adjustments I had to give to the players during the game, especially on defense and offense. At times we struggled to execute because we had too many players clustering in the lane. I had to make them understand that we needed to space out to allow easy access for driving and making extra passes."

Rivers Hoopers will next face Athletes 4 Peace in a Rivers derby on Wednesday, with James backing his experienced squad to maintain their unbeaten streak in Phase Two.

"We are going to approach the game the same way, but I think we will be more composed. Athletes 4 Peace are a good team, but they are largely inexperienced. We have talented, experienced players, and we plan to leverage that advantage," he added.

The convincing victory cements Rivers Hoopers' dominant position at the top of the standings as they look to maintain their momentum. Despite facing injury setbacks and physical fatigue, the KingsMen have demonstrated the depth and tactical versatility required to sustain a title charge. Attention now turns to the upcoming local derby, where their experience remains a key asset in preserving their perfect record.

Rivers Hoopers overpower Kwara Falcons to stay unbeaten in NPBL Phase Two

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