Rivers Hoopers Suffer Second Defeat To Al Ittihad In Kalahari Conference Clash

Rivers Hoopers Suffer Second Defeat To Al Ittihad In Kalahari Conference Clash

Precious Oham

Rivers Hoopers suffered their second loss of the Basketball Africa League (BAL) Kalahari Conference, falling 94-77 to Egyptian powerhouse Al-Ittihad Alexandria in a lopsided contest, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Hoopers were beaten in crucial areas, especially from beyond the arc, where Al Ittihad's accurate shooting made the difference, even though they had already guaranteed their spot in the BAL playoffs.

The KingsMen made 21.2% (7 of 33) three-pointers, while the Egyptians made 14 of their 33 shots at a remarkable 42.4% rate. Al Ittihad shot 50% from the field, while the Rivers team was unable to keep up offensively, shooting only 38%.

Throughout the game, the Nigerian champions were also beset by turnovers and missed opportunities.

Madut Akec led the scoring for Rivers Hoopers with 17 points, while Kelvin Amayo added 11 points and a team-high 7 assists.

The top performer on the glass was Peter Olisemeka, who pulled down a game-high 17 rebounds to go with 8 points.

Abel Offia also added 8 points and 3 steals in the fourth quarter. Rivers Hoopers will now shift focus to their final group stage match against Stade Malien, as they look to close out their Kalahari Conference campaign on a high note.