Rivers Hoopers, Lagos Legends Open NBBF Final Four With Day 1 Victories

Rivers Hoopers, Lagos Legends Open NBBF Final Four With Day 1 Victories

By Admin 

Rivers Hoopers and Lagos Legends opened their campaigns with convincing victories on Day 1 of the NBBF Final Four, setting the tone for an intense battle for the 2025 league title in Port Harcourt, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Defending champions Rivers Hoopers were tested by a resilient Gboko City Chiefs side but prevailed 66–61 before their home crowd. Peter Olisemeka delivered a standout performance, recording 13 points, 11 rebounds, and two steals to anchor the KingsMen’s narrow win. Victor Sunday added 10 points to help secure the victory in a tightly contested matchup.

Gboko City Chiefs remained competitive throughout, powered by Paul Dibal’s 18-point, 10-rebound double-double. Kareem Joseph and Victor Evans also chipped in with double-digit scoring, but the Chiefs faltered in the closing moments.

Lagos Legends followed up with a commanding 95–75 win over Nigeria Customs, extending the strong form they displayed in the Super 8. Patrick Abah led the team with 19 points, while captain Bright Akhuetie and Lucky Subel added 15 and 10 points respectively. Chingka Garba contributed across the floor with 10 rebounds and six assists in a balanced team showing.

Nigeria Customs posted several notable individual performances despite the loss. Captain David Godwin scored 18 points and grabbed five rebounds, while Oghenetega David added 17 points and eight rebounds. Favour Aboje and Ibe Agu provided additional scoring support, but the team struggled to keep pace with Lagos’ offensive rhythm.

Day 2 action continues with Lagos Legends facing Gboko City Chiefs at 3 p.m., followed by Rivers Hoopers taking on Nigeria Customs at 5 p.m.

The round-robin tournament runs through Day 3, with the highest-placed team crowned the 2025 NBBF Men’s Basketball League champion and earning Nigeria’s slot at the 2026 Basketball Africa League.