Rivers Hoopers begin title defence against Kwara Falcons

Rivers Hoopers begin title defence against Kwara Falcons

Reigning Nigeria Basketball Premier League (NBPL) champions, Rivers Hoopers, will begin their title defense against 2022 champions Kwara Falcons today.

Both teams were earlier drawn in the Atlantic Conference Group B of the 2025 NBPL season alongside Oluyole Warriors and Delta Force.

However, both Oluyole Warriors and Delta Force decided to opt out of the league, leaving just Rivers Hoopers and Kwara Falcons as the only participants in Group B.

The game between Rivers Hoopers and Kwara Falcons will take place at the Indoor Basketball Court, on 59 Niger Street, Port Harcourt Township, by 4pm, with the reverse fixture expected few days later.

Per league regulations for the 2025 NBPL season, group stage games are billed to be played on a home and away basis before all teams from each conference meet at a central venue for the Inter-Group Phase.

The Inter-Group Phase (which will also be held in Port Harcourt) is scheduled for 24 September - 5 October.

Recall that en route to clinching the 2024 NBPL title, Rivers Hoopers handed Kwara Falcons a heavy 104-46 defeat during last season's Atlantic Conference Phase, as well as beating the Falcons 89-34 during the Final 8 in Port Harcourt.