Rivers Hoopers Dominate Comets in NPBL Phase Two Opener
Offia Inspires Hoopers Despite Illness in 83-55 Win
Rivers Hoopers began Phase Two of the Nigeria Premier Basketball League (NPBL) in emphatic fashion, defeating Comets BC 83-55 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium on Saturday night.
Abel Offia, who overcame flu-like symptoms before tip-off, led the scoring with 18 points, including 10 in the second quarter that helped the KingsMen transform a narrow 18-17 first-quarter lead into a commanding 41-29 advantage at halftime.
Despite the convincing margin, interim head coach Ronald Alalibo expressed dissatisfaction with aspects of his team’s execution.
‘We played below par,’ Alalibo admitted. ‘The winning margin could’ve been more if we had played to our full potential.
Although the players are happy we won, they know there were certain things we didn’t do well.’
The Hoopers tightened their grip in the second half, outscoring Comets 42-26 while suffocating them defensively.
Guard Anaiye Johnson echoed his coach’s sentiments but praised the team’s resilience.
‘Although we started slow, we picked up the pace later in the game. It was a good win for us,” he said.
John Idoga added 14 points and Samuel Sani chipped in with 10, as the Hoopers showcased their perimeter strength by sinking eight three-pointers.
Attention now shifts to Sunday’s clash with hosts Coal City Blazers, where Alalibo stressed the need for greater intensity.
‘Same energy, even better than we played today,’ he said. ‘We’re prepared to play every team as we meet them without underrating anyone.’
The victory sets the tone for Rivers Hoopers as they aim to assert dominance in Phase Two of the NPBL campaign.
