Koko: Teamwork the Key as Rivers Hoopers Eye Double Over Falcons

Rivers Hoopers captain, Victor Anthony Koko, has underscored the importance of unity and collective effort as the reigning champions prepare to face Kwara Falcons for the second time in the 2025 Nigeria Basketball Premier League (NBPL) Group Phase.

Fresh off a commanding 83–61 victory in their first encounter on September 1st, the KingsMen are determined to complete the double over their Atlantic Conference Group B rivals.

The game, held at the Indoor Basketball Court on 59 Niger Street, saw standout performances from John Idoga (18 points), Favour Komene (11), and Sani Samuel (10), with Koko himself contributing 9 points and praising the team’s blend of youth and experience.

‘Playing for Hoopers is a huge task. Most of these guys are young and just coming into the team. They’ve played basketball before, but this is a different level. I give them kudos for stepping up and playing to a high standard,’ Koko said.

Despite the dominant win, Koko cautioned against complacency ahead of the return fixture scheduled for 4pm on Wednesday, September 3rd, at the same venue. He emphasized that facing the same opponent twice presents a unique challenge.

‘I won’t write off Kwara Falcons. It’s always tough playing a team back-to-back. We need to stay focused, work for each other, and play as a unit. Only teamwork will get us across the line,’ he warned.