Rivers Hoopers Captain Confident Ahead of NPBL 2025 Final Four Showdown

Rivers Hoopers captain Victor Anthony Koko has declared that his team is mentally and physically ready to defend their Nigeria Premier Basketball League (NPBL) crown during the 2025 season Final Four, scheduled for November 21–23 in Port Harcourt.

The KingsMen, unbeaten champions in both 2023 and 2024, are eyeing their seventh league title. They will face tough competition from Lagos Legends, Gboko City Chiefs, and Nigeria Customs, with the added incentive of securing a spot in next year’s Basketball Africa League.

Following the conclusion of the Final Eight earlier this month, Rivers Hoopers have had time to refine their strategies, and Koko is confident in the squad’s readiness. “Everyone is ready; everyone is mentally prepared. We understand what is at stake, so we need to give it our all. With the energy I’ve seen from my team during practice, we’re not just here to play—we’re here to win. We’re a championship team, and we intend to keep that title,” he emphasized.

Koko, who has claimed the NPBL title seven times in his career, is determined to guide the Port Harcourt side to further glory. “Winning the 2025 NPBL title is on my mind day and night. Hoopers Champions—that’s the goal. I promise our fans we won’t let them down. It’s happening here in Port Harcourt, and we’ll make them proud,” he added.

The Final Four will follow a round-robin format, with each team playing against the other three. The team with the highest points tally at the end will be crowned champions. Rivers Hoopers will kick off their campaign with a crucial clash against Gboko City Chiefs on Friday, November 21.