Defending champions Rivers Hoopers saw their impressive one-year unbeaten streak come to an end after a thrilling 80-79 overtime loss to Lagos Legends in the Day Five clash of the 2025 Nigeria Premier Basketball League (NPBL) Final Eight Playoffs on Friday night.

Both teams entered the contest at the Basketball Stadium, Port Harcourt, undefeated in the Playoffs, each with four straight wins. Lagos Legends quickly took the lead, opening the first quarter 9-4 and trading points with Hoopers in a tense 22-22 first period. By halftime, Legends had edged ahead 41-40, setting the stage for a high-stakes second half.

The teams battled fiercely in the second half, ultimately deadlocking at 71-71, forcing overtime. In the extra period, Lagos Legends clinched the narrow victory, handing the hosts their first league loss since November 2022.

Hoopers Head Coach Ogoh Odaudu praised his team despite the defeat. “Today’s game was really intense. Fatigue set in, leading to a few mental lapses. But we’re improving each day. We’ll rest, regroup, and prepare for the final four,” he said.

Top performers for Lagos Legends included Isaiah Williams with 20 points, Victor Sunday with 15, John Idoga with 10, and Buchi Nwaiwu, who posted a double-double of 12 points and 11 rebounds. Peter Olisemeka, also recording a double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds, emphasized the need to learn from the game.

Rivers Hoopers will return to action today, November 1, 2025, at 3:00 PM against Nile University Spartans, while other Day Six games include Nigeria Customs vs Hoops & Read at 11:00 AM, Gboko City Chiefs vs Kwara Falcons at 1:00 PM, and Lagos Legends vs Kano Pillars at 5:00 PM. All matches will be held at the Basketball Stadium, #59 Niger Street, Port Harcourt.