History-making Rivers Hoopers settle for bronze chase at 2024 BAL

Posted : 31 May 2024

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Historic Rivers Hoopers, Nigeria's representative to the 2024 Basketball Africa League (BAL), suffered a heart-wrenching defeat on Wednesday, losing the opportunity to continue their impressive run in Africa's premier basketball league. The semi-final match against Al Ahly Ly Benghazi of Libya ended in a nail-biting 83-89 loss, cutting short their hopes of making it to the final. Despite the loss, the Hoopers’ journey has been nothing short of remarkable, showcasing their resilience and determination throughout the competition.

The match, held in Kigali, was a testament to the fighting spirit of the Nigerian side. The Rivers Hoopers played with tenacity and skill against the formidable former African champions. The game was intensely competitive, with both teams showcasing high-level basketball that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Although the Hoopers fell short, their performance against such a strong opponent demonstrated their growth and potential on the continental stage.

Despite the disappointment, coach Ogoh Odaudu reaffirmed his team’s commitment to pursuing the bronze medal. Speaking after the defeat, Odaudu praised his players for their effort and resilience, emphasizing that the journey is not over yet. "We may have lost the semi-final, but our focus now shifts to winning the bronze medal," he stated. This determination reflects the team's unwavering spirit and their resolve to end the tournament on a high note.

The Hoopers, who were largely underestimated at the start of the season, have defied expectations with their performance. Entering the semi-final with a 5-3 record, they had already made headlines by defeating the 2022 champions, US Monastir of Tunisia, in the quarter-finals. This victory was a significant milestone, highlighting their capability to compete with and defeat some of the best teams in Africa. The semi-final loss, while disappointing, does not overshadow their achievements thus far.

A visibly disappointed Odaudu expressed his sentiments about the journey. "Nobody gave us a chance, but we will raise our heads high. Nobody thought we would be here today, and here we are," he said. His words encapsulate the underdog spirit that has driven the team throughout the BAL. The coach's optimism and confidence in his players are evident as they prepare for their next challenge.

“It’s quite unfortunate the fairytale run has ended. We will try and make sure we come back and take the bronze medal game,” Odaudu added. This statement underscores the team’s resilience and their focus on the next objective. For the Hoopers, the third-place match is not just a consolation game; it is an opportunity to cap off their historic run with a tangible reward and further cement their place in African basketball history.

Next up for the Rivers Hoopers is the third-place game against the loser of the match between Petro de Luanda and Cape Town Tigers on Friday. This game presents another chance for the Hoopers to demonstrate their skills and end their BAL campaign on a positive note. Regardless of the outcome, their journey in the 2024 BAL has already made a significant impact, inspiring many and showcasing the potential of Nigerian basketball on the continental stage.

History-making Rivers Hoopers settle for bronze chase at 2024 BAL

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