Rivers Hoopers and Lagos Legends both opened the NBBF Final Four with victories on Day 1, setting up a compelling second day of action in Port Harcourt.
The defending champions, playing on home court, were pushed hard by Gboko City Chiefs but held on for a 66–61 win.
Peter Olisemeka led the Hoopers charge with a dominant display, finishing with 13 points, 11 rebounds and two steals as the KingsMen launched their title defence on a positive note. Victor Sunday added 10 points to help close out a tight contest.
Gboko City Chiefs stayed in the game through the efforts of Paul Dibal, who posted an 18-point, 10-rebound double-double. Kareem Joseph and Victor Evans also reached double figures, but the Chiefs fell just short in the closing stages.
Lagos Legends followed with a commanding 95–75 victory over Nigeria Customs, extending their impressive run of form from the Super 8.
Patrick Abah led the scoring with 19 points, while captain Bright Akhuetie and Lucky Subel added 15 and 10 respectively. Chingka Garba also played a key role, collecting 10 rebounds and six assists in a well-balanced team performance.
Despite the defeat, Nigeria Customs produced notable individual outings. Captain David Godwin scored 18 points alongside five rebounds, while Oghenetega David contributed 17 points and eight rebounds.
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Favour Aboje and Ibe Agu added further scoring support, though Customs were unable to match Lagos’ pace and precision.
Day 2 will see the in-form Legends face Gboko City Chiefs at 3 p.m., before Rivers Hoopers return to the court at 5 p.m. to take on Nigeria Customs.
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The round-robin competition will run through Day 3, with the top-placed team claiming the 2025 NBBF Men’s Basketball League title and securing Nigeria’s place at the 2026 Basketball Africa League.
