BAL 2025: Rivers Hoopers Fall to US Monastir in Playoff Opener

BAL 2025: Rivers Hoopers Fall to US Monastir in Playoff Opener

Sampson Adedeji

The 2025 Basketball Africa League (BAL) playoffs tipped off on Saturday evening, but it was a disappointing start for Nigeria’s Rivers Hoopers, who fell to former champions US Monastir, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Playing at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria, the Hoopers started strong, taking a 36-32 lead into halftime. However, they were unable to maintain their momentum in the second half.

US Monastir regrouped after the break and dominated the final two quarters, eventually securing an 89-81 victory over the Nigerian side.

Rivers Hoopers will have a chance to bounce back on Monday when they face Rwanda’s APR in the quarterfinals.