‘Once we’re in form, it’s tough to play against us’: Amayo locked in as Rivers Hoopers target NPBL three-peat

Kelvin Amayo, the 2024 NPBL Finals MVP, has set the tone for Rivers Hoopers ahead of the decisive climax of the 2025 Nigeria Premier Basketball League season.

As the Final Four tips off in Port Harcourt, the veteran guard insists the reigning champions are locked in and ready to defend their crown with what he calls a ‘killer mindset.’

The Final Four brings together the league’s top four sides, Rivers Hoopers, Lagos Legends, Gboko City Chiefs, and Nigeria Customs, in a round-robin battle for the championship and a ticket to the 2026 Basketball Africa League.

Amayo, who was instrumental in last year’s triumph, believes his team’s cohesion and understanding of roles will make them difficult opponents.

‘Once we’re in form, it’s tough to defend us, tough to play against us. I think we’ll be really good. Everybody has a good understanding of everybody’s role, and we just can’t wait to play this weekend,’ he said.

The Hoopers will open their campaign against Gboko City Chiefs, a familiar rival they defeated in last year’s semi-final when Amayo scored 22 points before leading all scorers with 29 in the final against Hoops and Reads.

The Nigerian Canadian has since become a fan favourite, earning a spot in the NBBF All-Star Five and delivering standout performances in both the NPBL and BAL.

Yet, he insists personal accolades are secondary to team success.

‘I didn’t focus on that last year; I think I just did it. So when I go out on the court, I think I’m going to have the same mindset this time around: just have fun… I feel like I’ve worked on my shape, I’ve worked on the plays, everything. I think we’re going to enjoy ourselves, and we’re going to let the coins fall like that,’ Amayo explained.

Rivers Hoopers have dominated their rivalry with Gboko City Chiefs, winning five straight meetings, including a dramatic 93-92 overtime victory in the Final Eight Playoffs earlier this season.

Amayo, now 33, is determined to extend that streak and lead the KingsMen to yet another title.

‘It’s a killer mindset, just ready to have fun, and ready to lock in against whoever,’ he declared.

The Final Four begins Friday with Lagos Legends facing Nigeria Customs at 3pm, followed by Rivers Hoopers against Gboko City Chiefs at 5pm. The champions then meet Nigeria Customs on Saturday before closing against Lagos Legends on Sunday, with all games staged at the Basketball Stadium, Niger Street, Port Harcourt Township.