Rivers Hoopers aim to defend NPBL title as final four kicks off in Port Harcourt

Rivers Hoopers captain Victor Anthony Koko has expressed confidence that his team is mentally and physically prepared to defend their Nigeria Premier Basketball League (NPBL) crown when the 2025 Final Four takes place from November 21–23 in Port Harcourt, Sport360NG reports.

The KingsMen, who went unbeaten en route to back-to-back NPBL titles in 2023 and 2024, are chasing a record seventh league championship. They will face stiff 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, Hoopers have fine-tuned preparations for the Final Four. Speaking ahead of the tournament, Koko said his squad is focused and determined.

“This time around, everyone is ready; everyone is mentally ready. We understand what is at stake, so we need to go all out. With the energy I’ve seen from my team during practice, we’re not here just to play, we’re here to win. We’re a championship-winning team, and we intend to retain that championship,” Koko stated.

A seven-time league winner himself, Koko is eager to help Hoopers reach new heights.

“I want us to win the 2025 NPBL title. It’s on my mind day and night: Hoopers Champions. I’m assuring our fans that we’re not going to let them down. It’s happening here in Port Harcourt, and we’re going to make them proud,” he added.

The Final Four will be contested in a round-robin format, with each team playing all three opponents. The team with the highest points tally at the end of the round will be crowned NPBL champions. Hoopers will open their campaign against Gboko City Chiefs on Friday, November 21.