Rivers Hoopers sharpen focus for 2026 NPBL playoffs campaign

Rivers Hoopers have stepped up preparations for the 2026 Nigeria Premier Basketball League Phase Three playoffs, with interim coach Ronald Alalibo demanding unity and complete focus from the squad. The six-time Nigerian champions are seeking to reclaim the league title after a strong start to the campaign.

The KingsMen finished Phase One with a 4-1 record before producing a 6-1 mark in Phase Two. Those results have placed them among the Atlantic Conference qualifiers for the playoff stage, where they will face seven other teams in a round-robin competition.

Alalibo has stressed that the playoff challenge requires involvement from every player rather than reliance on a small group. His message to the squad has centred on shared responsibility, full commitment and the need for the players to remain aligned with the team’s objective of winning the league.

Rivers Hoopers will meet Atlantic Conference qualifiers Maktown Flyers, Hoops & Read and Lagos Raptors in Phase Three. The Savannah Conference representatives are Aso Sky Hawks, 313 Warriors, Gboko City Chiefs and Kano Pillars.

The coaching staff is also working on team chemistry, tactical execution and discipline as the competition becomes more demanding. The team’s performances in the opening two phases were supported by contributions from both the starting five and the bench, while defensive work and squad depth were identified as important parts of their progress.

Captain Victor Koko and vice-captain Buchi Vincent remain central figures on the court. John Idoga, Abel Offia, Chinedu Nwaogu, Anaiye Johnson and Victor Sunday are among the other players expected to contribute, with Samuel Sani, Eric Okechukwu and Aroko Tom adding further options as Rivers Hoopers pursue another championship.