AFCON 2025
Rivers Hoopers continued their impressive run in the 2025 Basketball Africa League (BAL) Kalahari Conference with a hard-fought 88-82 victory over Morocco’s FUS Rabat on Sunday.
In what was a tense and closely contested encounter, the Nigerian champions showed resilience and composure to overcome the Moroccan side in front of a boisterous home crowd at Salle Omnisports Moulay Abdellah in Rabat.
Fresh off their opening day win against Mali’s Stade Malien, the Hoopers carried their momentum into the clash with FUS Rabat. Nicknamed the Kings Men, they started strong and took control early, winning the first quarter 23-17.
They further extended their advantage in the second quarter to head into the halftime break with a 50-42 lead. However, the tide turned in the third quarter as FUS Rabat clawed their way back, momentarily seizing control of the game.
But the Hoopers regrouped in the final quarter with an improved performance that saw them retake the lead and eventually seal a crucial six-point win.
Kelvin Amayo was instrumental for the Nigerian side, finishing as Player of the Game with 23 points, two rebounds, and four assists. Madut Akec also delivered a standout performance with 25 points, eight rebounds, and two assists.
With two wins from two, Rivers Hoopers now prepare for a top-of-the-table clash against Egypt’s Al Ittihad on Tuesday — a game that could decide who tops the Kalahari Conference.
Only the top two teams from the group will automatically advance to the playoffs.
