Rivers Hoopers Unfazed Ahead of 2025 NBPL Title Defense – Buchi Nwaiwu
As the countdown begins to the 2025 Nigeria Basketball Premier League (NBPL) season, Rivers Hoopers vice-captain Buchi Nwaiwu has made it clear: the reigning champions are not feeling the pressure.
Fresh off their sixth league title—secured with a commanding 71–54 win over Hoops & Read in the 2024 playoff final—the KingsMen enter the new campaign as firm favourites. Yet Nwaiwu, a 6-foot-7 forward and 2024 NBPL All-Star, insists the team remains grounded.
“I’m not anxious,” he said. “The new season brings fresh expectations, rivalries, and emotions, but I’m calm. No panic.”
The 2025 NBPL introduces a revamped format featuring four competitive phases: Group Stage, Inter-Group Stage, Playoffs, and Final Four. Sixteen teams are split across the Savannah and Atlantic Conferences, with Rivers Hoopers placed in Group B alongside Delta Force, Oluyole Warriors, and Kwara Falcons.
Despite the structural changes, Nwaiwu remains focused on performance. “Whatever format they use, it doesn’t bother me. We just need to show up, play hard, and win games.”
In a surprise move, Port Harcourt was named host city for both Phase I and Phase II of the season—marking the third consecutive year the city will stage NBPL action. Nwaiwu welcomed the decision, calling it a morale booster.
“Hosting again in Port Harcourt is unexpected but great. It motivates us not to disappoint our fans. Their support is massive—they’re our backbone.”
The Group Phase tips off from August 28 to September 3, followed by a break before the Inter-Group Phase runs from September 24 to October 5. Rivers Hoopers will look to leverage home-court advantage and fan energy as they chase a historic third consecutive title.
With confidence high and expectations soaring, the KingsMen are ready to defend their crown—on their terms.
