Rivers Hoopers Eye Playoffs with Renewed Focus Ahead of NPBL Phase Two
Six-time champions Rivers Hoopers are intensifying preparations for Phase Two of the Nigeria Premier Basketball League (NPBL), with new signing Aroko Tom calling for sharper execution as the competition heats up.
The KingsMen concluded Phase One in Ibadan with a 4-1 record, bouncing back from a narrow 70-65 defeat to Hoops & Read by dismantling Comets BC 92-61 and edging Raptors 77-76 in their final fixture.
The performances highlighted the depth and resilience of a roster strengthened by offseason acquisitions including Tom, Okechukwu Eric, Chinedu Nwaogu, and the returning Abel Offia.
Reflecting on his early days with the team, Tom expressed optimism about the squad’s chemistry under interim head coach Ronald Alalibo.
‘It’s a learning process for us,’ he said. ‘Some of us are new, but we’re gelling well. We understand the assignment given to us by management, the coaching staff, and the supporters.’
Phase Two of the NPBL will adopt a round-robin, inter-group format, with teams from both Atlantic Conference groups A and B competing for playoff qualification.
The level of competition is expected to rise significantly, and Tom insists the Hoopers must pair their physical talent with smarter, more aggressive play.
‘We know what we are here for, and we want to take it all,’ Tom stated. ‘We just have to be more aggressive, smarter, and do everything right on the court. That’s what we’re taking into Phase Two.’
League organizers have confirmed that NPBL Phase Two will tip off on June 19, 2026, at the Enugu State capital, with Atlantic Conference teams meeting at the Enugu Stadium.
