Rivers Hoopers look set to seal their spot in the playoffs of the Basketball Africa League season five after a dramatic 79-71 victory over Morocco’s FUS Rabat on Thursday.
Despite trailing for the better part of three quarters, the Hoopers staged one of the most impressive comebacks of the conference, dominating the fourth quarter.
Madut Akec led the way with a standout performance of 17 points and 8 rebounds, while Raphiel Putney contributed 14 crucial points, including key baskets in the final quarter.
Peter Olisemeka was rock solid in the paint, posting a double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds. Maxi Munanga Shamba added 11 points.
Kelvin Amayo was instrumental all-around with 16 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists.
“We had scouted them, so we knew what they could do and what they couldn’t do. All in all, it was down to determination and who wanted it most because it put us in a great position to qualify for South Africa for the playoffs,” said Rivers Hoopers head coach Ogoh Odaudu.
The Kingsmen will next face Al-Ittihad Alexandria in their fifth game of the Kalahari Conference on Saturday before playing against Stade Malien on Sunday.
The Rivers Hoopers are now set to join the continent’s elite in South Africa for the main phase of the Basketball Africa League, marking a major achievement for Nigerian basketball.
