Rivers Hoopers’ Foreign Trio Celebrate Maiden NPBL Title
Tunisian Omar Abada, Nikolaos Okekuoyen and American Raphiael Putney have reflected on their maiden Nigeria Premier Basketball League title after helping Rivers Hoopers reclaim the championship.
The trio were part of the Hoopers team that clinched a record seventh NPBL crown in Port Harcourt and secured another ticket to the Basketball Africa League (BAL).
Abada was particularly influential during the Final Four, averaging 14.7 points, 4.7 assists, 2.7 rebounds and 1.7 steals per game.
The Tunisian guard produced 18 points, including four three-pointers, in the Hoopers’ 88-76 win over Gboko City Chiefs before delivering 17 points, five rebounds, six assists and three steals against Maktown Flyers in the final game.
His performances earned him a place in the NPBL All-Star Five.
‘I’m very happy, it was a great experience,’ Abada said. ‘I really enjoyed my time in Nigeria. People showed me love and gave me a warm welcome, so I’m grateful for that.
‘I’m very happy to win this championship title and qualify Rivers Hoopers for the BAL.’
Okekuoyen also made an immediate impact, scoring 11 points and grabbing four rebounds in just 11 minutes against Asosky Hawks in the opening game.
‘It was a great experience for me, being in Nigeria, experiencing the culture and Nigerian basketball,’ he said.
‘I’m very glad that I said yes to Rivers Hoopers. It’s a huge blessing for me to be a part of this championship-winning team and a part of Rivers Hoopers’ history.’
Putney, who had previously represented the Hoopers during their 2025 BAL campaign, added experience and leadership to the championship-winning side despite battling a lingering back problem.
‘I’m really excited to have won the title with Rivers Hoopers,’ the American forward said. ‘This club is like family to me. I love being here, and I appreciate the love from the fans and the amazing people within the organization.’
For the three players, their first NPBL campaign ended with a championship, a BAL qualification and a lasting connection with the Rivers Hoopers faithful.
