Passion, Pride and Unity: The Story of Rivers Hoopers Supporters

The Rivers Hoopers are more than just a basketball team. They are a living, breathing community, powered by the voices, drums, and trumpets of their supporters who give life to every game.

From the familiar stands on Niger Street in Port Harcourt to arenas across Africa, and even through virtual cheers from thousands of miles away, the KingsMen’s faithful have built one of the most vibrant fanbases in Nigerian basketball.

The story of the Hoopers’ supporters is woven into the club’s very beginnings. When the team was founded as Royal Hoopers in 2005, fans like Raphael Emeruwa Chima were there from the start, forming the supporters’ club and standing by the team through heartbreak and triumph.

He recalls the agony of losing the DSTV Final 8 in 2010 by a single point, and the joy of bouncing back in Lagos the following year to cheer the team to victory.

For younger fans like 20-year-old Rose Biobele Kingoli, the Hoopers are part of her identity. Growing up in Port Harcourt, she fell in love with basketball and naturally gravitated toward the KingsMen.

Her passion has only grown stronger, fueled by moments like the nail-biting win over Gboko City Chiefs in 2024, when the supporters’ belief carried the team across the line.

But the heartbeat of Rivers Hoopers extends far beyond Nigeria.

In South Africa, Coach Khumo Chingabe of Midrand High School became a loyal supporter in 2024, drawn to the team’s resilience and unity.

In Rwanda, veteran journalist Mohammed Sekkak found himself inspired by the club’s culture and character after meeting the Hoopers delegation during the Basketball Africa League.

For him, the Hoopers represent humility, teamwork, and respect, values that transcend borders.

Together, these voices form one big family. Chima, now coordinator of the supporters’ club, describes the bond as deeper than matchdays.

Rose speaks of pride in standing with the team through highs and lows. Coach Khumo dreams of one day watching them live. Sekkak hopes to see them lift the BAL trophy.

Through victories and defeats, across continents and generations, the Rivers Hoopers community beats as one drum. They are united by passion, pride, and the belief that basketball is more than a game, it is family.

And in every chant, every cheer, and every moment of support, the heartbeat of Rivers Hoopers grows stronger, carrying the KingsMen spirit wherever they go.