Rivers Hoopers

Putney to bring intensity for Hoopers in playoffs homecoming

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THE gruelling conference stages of the Basketball Africa League (BAL) are done and dusted, and the teams to battle it out in the playoffs in Tshwane, South Africa (6-14 June) have been decided. One player looking forward to reconnecting with South Africa is forward Raphiael Putney, who has been preparing himself for the upcoming and intense duels of the playoff stages, the latter which will determine the team that will claim the coveted BAL baobab-shaped trophy. 

Putney’s Nigerian club, Rivers Hoopers, secured its ticket to Tshwane last month at the Kalahari Conference in Morocco… So he and Hoopers will await their playoff opponent from either the Nile Conference, the Sahara Conference or a team from the Kalahari Conference.

American player Putney, currently in Houston, Texas, is a familiar face in South African basketball, having first tasted the game on the continent as a Cape Town Tigers player. The Virginia-born Putney led the Tigers to a second national championship in 2022 and successfully helped them qualify for the 2023 BAL, which he disappointingly did not play in.

“For me, this is like a homecoming. I made a lot of friends while I was playing for the Tigers. I am looking forward to showing up for the team (Hoopers) and doing my best,” said Putney. “It’s something I am looking forward to…. Coming to South Africa… It’s one of the countries that gave me a chance to continue my career. I wish I could have played with them (the Tigers), but certain circumstances did not allow me to.”

Putney continued: “I said this two years ago, ‘I want to come back and play in South Africa’… It’s going to happen soon. It’s for a different team, but I am going to showcase my talents to people who believed in me while I was there.”

Raphiael Putney Rivers Hoopers
Raphiael Putney led the BAL in blocks at the end of the Kalahari Conference. Pictures: The BAL and Rivers Hoopers

Having navigated the Kalahari Conference with a 4-2 record, how did Putney feel about playing in his first BAL tournament?

“I loved it. It’s been a great experience. A lot better than what I expected,” said Putney. “There were great teams in Morocco. We faced challenges (in the conference) early on, but the team we had was able to do something special.

“We have a good group of guys willing to work hard to win. I bring my veteran leadership. We want to do better than last year’s third place finish. We want to win the championship.”

If Hoopers want to have a shot at the BAL title, Putney, who averaged 13.5 points per game, 1.3 assists per game and 5.5 rebounds per game, says the Kingsmen have to figure out their style of play.

“We need to find our identity. We’re a strong defensive team, though we occasionally have lapses,” said Putney. “During the Kalahari Conference we had leads in games and thought it was a wrap, so we need to put pressure on teams.”

 

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He also pointed out what he needed to work on to contribute to the success of the Hoopers in the playoffs. Putney had to immediately join the Kingsmen for their BAL campaign, which gave him little time to recover from intense competition in Mexico’s Pacific Coast Basketball Circuit playoffs for Pioneros de Delicias.

“I had some fatigue after playing back-to-back games in the playoffs in Mexico. But it was not to a point where I was not effective for my team (Hoopers). So I have to stay focused, hit my jump shots and be aggressive,” said Putney. “I feel like I am a mismatch on the floor. So, I can be a playmaker and do certain things to help my team win games.

“Most importantly, I bring defensive intensity. I think I’ll continue to lead the league in blocked shots. That’s my goal, everywhere I go I’ve led in blocked shots and want continue that in the league,” said Putney.

Six-foot-ten (2.08m) Putney, who averaged 1.7 blocks per game, has since dropped down the rankings in blocked shots to joint fifth, so a lot of work is ahead of him in trying to dislodge current No. 1 Aliou Diarra of Rwandan club APR.

Raphiael Putney, The BAL and Rivers Hoopers
Raphiael Putney says the Hoopers are aiming for the BAL trophy.

The forward has a couple of weeks to fine-tune his game to help the Hoopers achieve their goals. The 35-year-old says he’s used his time off productively to stay ready for the playoffs, like waking up early to go through his paces.

“When I got here, I knew we had a month off. So, I planned my schedule around this month until I get back for the playoffs,” said Putney. “I have a program that I follow. I wake up at five in the morning to do my workouts. It’s cardio and hooping so that I stay prepared and in game shape. So, I have not taken any time off,” said Putney.

The well-travelled Putney sounds confident of what Hoopers will be able to do come the playoffs. He’s also finally gotten his shot at showing what he can do in the BAL. As Hoopers take another step towards their goal, they will be like a raging river swallowing everything standing in its way.

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Al Ittihad emerge as frontrunners of the Kalahari Conference

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THE Basketball Africa League’s Kalahari Conference has hit the halfway point, and the contenders for playoff spots are beginning to emerge. In this breakdown, The Big Tip Off examines each team’s strengths, weaknesses, and prospects as they head into the final stretch of conference play. 

Al Ittihad: Deep, Balanced, and Unbeaten

Current Form: 3–0

Strengths: Depth, balance, consistent bench production

Weaknesses: Can be turnover-prone in transition

Al Ittihad remains undefeated and sits at the top of the standings after decisively defeating Rivers Hoopers in the first round. The Egyptian powerhouse is not just participating in the competition; they are determined to win the title.

What makes them particularly dangerous is their rotating cast of contributors. Majok Deng has been a consistent force, averaging 16.3 points and 6.7 rebounds per game. Meanwhile, players like Kyle Vinales and Ahmed Khalaf provide steady scoring and leadership.

Their bench averages 36.7 points per game, the highest in the conference, which allows them to maintain their tempo and intensity throughout all four quarters. Al Ittihad is methodical and versatile; they can adapt their style of play, whether it’s a grind-it-out game or a high-tempo matchup, depending on their opponent.

Outlook:

With a playoff spot within reach, Al Ittihad is a club built for the long haul. Their depth, discipline, and unpredictability make them a strong title contender in Season 5 of the BAL.

Rivers Hoopers Kalahari Conference
Rivers Hoopers have a strong starting five but questions have been asked about their bench. Pictures: The BAL

Rivers Hoopers: Adaptive and Talented, But Need More Contributions From Their Bench

Current Form: 2–1

Strengths: Adaptability, veteran leadership, top-end talent

Weaknesses: Foul trouble, free-throw shooting, limited bench scoring

Rivers Hoopers entered the Kalahari Conference with confidence and quickly established themselves as serious contenders. However, a recent loss to Al Ittihad revealed some weaknesses.

Kelvin Amayo, the driving force of this team, is averaging 18.7 points, six assists, and 2.7 steals per game. He also leads the conference in terms of usage rate and minutes played. Alongside him, Madut Akec stands out, averaging 19.7 points, eight rebounds, 4.3 assists, and two steals per game.

The addition of Raphiel Putney has enhanced their offence and improved rim protection. His length gives Hoopers an advantage on both ends of the court, allowing them to disrupt opponents’ rhythm and create space with his perimeter shooting.

The Hoopers are particularly effective at adjusting their strategy mid-game, making intelligent counters in response to their opponents. However, foul trouble has been a persistent issue, often limiting the availability of key players during crucial moments. Additionally, they struggle at the free-throw line, with a conversion rate of just 56.1%, and receive limited contributions from their bench, averaging only 13 points per game.

Outlook:

The Rivers Hoopers are battle-tested, but they must stay disciplined and deepen their bench production if they hope to secure a playoff spot outright—third place is not a safe place to be in this conference.

FUS Rabat Kalahari Conference
After a slow start, FUS Rabat got its campaign back on track.

FUS de Rabat: Back to Form, But Can They Sustain It?

Current Form: 1–2

Strengths: Offensive rhythm, ball movement, strong starting five

Weaknesses: Lack of consistency, closing games

FUS de Rabat finally found their rhythm with a dominant performance against Stade Malien, reminiscent of their best moments from Season 4. Ayoub Nouhi set the tone with high energy, which roused the entire squad. His resurgence brought back a sense of urgency and identity to the team.

FUS thrived on off-ball movement and floor spacing, successfully knocking down deep shots while creating lanes for finishes in the paint. It’s the version of FUS that impressed fans in the past, featuring multiple players scoring in double figures and a free-flowing offence that puts pressure on any defence. Nisre Zouzoua is a reliable scoring threat, averaging 18.3 points and 4.3 assists per game. However, FUS’s potential depends on consistency in execution and defensive focus.

Outlook:

FUS de Rabat’s win keeps their playoff hopes alive, but they’ll need another strong performance to avoid relying on a third-place finish. Establishing rhythm early and staying disciplined on defence can be key to pulling off an upset against the current favourites of the Kalahari Conference.

Cartier Diarra Stade Malien
Cartier Diarra has helped to carry the load for Stade Malien.

Stade Malien: Winless but can still make a final push

Current Form: 0-3

Strengths: Paint scoring, pick-and-roll execution, individual talent

Weaknesses: Perimeter defence, inconsistent shooting, late-game execution

Stade Malien remains winless, but their performances have shown promise. Their pick-and-roll offence is effective, and when they attack the paint, they can create quality scoring opportunities. However, their outside shooting has been inconsistent, and defensive lapses on the perimeter have hurt them in critical moments.

Mohamed Doumbya leads the team with an average of 14 points, seven rebounds, and 2.7 steals per game. Cartier Diarra contributes 13.7 points, while Mahamane Coulibaly adds 12.3 points, five rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. This trio has carried most of the scoring load – the game against FUS revealed more depth than previously shown.

The team’s shortcomings lie in the details – turnovers in crunch time and a lack of defensive awareness along the three-point line. These small mistakes have made the difference between winning and losing in the Kalahari Conference.

Outlook:

It’s not over yet. Stade Malien can still mathematically force their way into playoff contention, but they must play their best basketball now. Improved focus, fewer mistakes, and execution will be the keys to a turnaround.

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Eke banks on Hoopers’ BAL run to lift image of Nigerian basketball

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FOLLOWING the Rivers Hoopers’ BAL third-place final game win against the Cape Town Tigers, which earned them a podium finish, the post-game press conference started unconventionally.

Guard Devine Eke initiated his own press conference while waiting for coach Ogoh Odaudu to emerge from the locker room with his Coach of the Year trophy. He posed questions to the media for about 2 minutes before jokingly concluding the short proceedings, saying he should stop before he gets into trouble upon Odaudu’s return.

Eke’s energetic presence provided insight into the team dynamic, balanced by a laid-back atmosphere and mutual respect. This has defined the team’s DNA in the Cinderella story for the Rivers Hoopers this season.

In an interview with The Big Tip Off, Eke discussed his initial impressions of the league and the team’s goal for the season.

Devine Eke at the BAL
Devine Eke led the Hoopers to a third-place finish in Season 4 of the BAL. Picture: The BAL and X Ball

Eke, who joined the team in February, admitted he was initially sceptical about the readiness of the league. However, after having a superb BAL tournament, he acknowledged his misconceptions about the BAL were incorrect.

“I didn’t think the BAL was ready yet, but man, I was wrong. This league is amazing, and I love it. I’ve met so many great people. My expectations were wrong. Everyone who told me to come was 100% right… I’m happy I listened to those who advised me.”

Hoopers, returning to the BAL since last appearing in 2021, wanted to shift how Nigerian basketball is viewed, especially after the national team’s dismal performance in the first round of AfroBasket qualifiers in February.

“The goal coming here was changing the narrative of our country’s basketball. We want the next time a Nigerian team comes here to believe they can do what Rivers Hoopers did or even better.”

From the first game, it was evident that it was a different team. Over and above the obvious changes made to the roster and additions to the coaching staff, there was a strong sense of unity that is often scarce amongst teams in this competition.

 

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Eke, who made the All-BAL Second team, pointed to chemistry and a selfless desire to win, as the North Star that guided them to their Cinderella run.

“I think our team chemistry is one of a kind. From the local players to import players, everybody had the same goal. So when you have a team that has the same goal, it’s easy to bond, it’s easy to win, it’s easy to just be successful,” said Eke.

“Everyone had the same goal of winning, nobody cared about scoring. Nobody cared about their minutes. Nobody cared about rebounds or assists. We all just came together as a collective and wanted to win. And that made it easy.”

This unity began at the top, from the coaching staff and management led by Odaudu. From the outside looking in, it would have been easy to perceive Odaudu’s impact on the team as purely tactical. But to Eke, his coach had a far-reaching effect. Each player was encouraged to keep taking shots and find the open man, whether they had a lead they were trying to maintain or cut down on one.

“He gave us confidence and faith, and he believed in us. There were a lot of times during the games – obviously, you guys don’t see it… But there’s been a lot of times during the games when guys had their heads down, even myself, but the way he encouraged us was just tremendous,” explained Eke. “Having coaches that encourage you and don’t just bring you down because you’re missing shots or bench you when you turn the ball over, that’s something really big.”

Devine Eke believes the best of Rivers Hoopers is still to come.

After the Hoopers lost to Al Ahly Benghazi in the semi-finals, they identified the key areas that needed to improve to clinch a podium finish.

“I think we improved our rebounding and limited our turnovers. When we look at the games we lost, it’s because of rebounding and turnovers. And when we focused on that, we could win,” said Eke. “We focused on ourselves, we wanted to keep having fun. You know, from the beginning like, the reason why we were winning was because everyone was having fun. Everyone was touching the ball, everyone was swinging a ball, everyone was scoring, and our bench was going crazy. So we just wanted to keep the same mindset that we had in Dakar.”

Reflecting on his BAL debut, Eke says the tournament has improved his skill level and raised his stock.

“There is a lot of amazing talent in this league, everybody is strong, skilful and physical. This helped me because I had to really think the game through. There are a lot of great players coached by great coaches and this helped my game a lot,” said Eke.

He also hopes the Hoopers will improve on this season’s BAL performance.

“We just want to grow from this season. See what we did wrong, what we did right and just keep striving for greatness,” said Eke. “The main goal is to come back next year. We want to put Hoopers somewhere special. This year we finished third, but we want to be able to win the BAL.”

The Rivers Hoopers’ goal for next season is ambitious but achievable. With no back-to-back champions yet, three new teams in this year’s semi-finals, a team from the Road to The BAL making it to the finals and the crowning of a new champion, the evidence is clear that the championship is anyone’s for the taking.

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Petro and Al Ahly Benghazi to battle it out in BAL final

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(KIGALI) On Wednesday night, the Basketball Africa League (BAL) semi-finals produced two thrilling encounters (Rivers Hoopers vs Al Ahly Benghazi; Cape Town Tigers vs Petro de Luanda), which saw Petro and Al Ahly win in overtime.

In an electrifying match, Petro de Luanda secured a hard-fought 96-86 victory over the Cape Town Tigers in overtime. Both teams played relentlessly, leading to numerous lead changes and a dramatic finish that left fans on the edge of their seats.

The Tigers started strong, leading 16-15 at the end of the first quarter. Both teams demonstrated solid defence and efficient ball movement, keeping the game tight. However, foul trouble for the Tigers in the second quarter allowed Petro to gain a foothold.

With 7:40 left in the second quarter, back-to-back corner threes from Nicholas Faust put Petro up by six points. A turnover followed by an uncontested three extended their lead, making it 28-21 by halftime.

BAL action
Nkosinathi Sibanyoni drives to the rim while being guarded by Markieff Cummins in the BAL semi-final on Wednesday. Pictures: The BAL

The final quarter was a nail-biter, with the Tigers managing to tie the game at 77-77, thanks to Samkelo Cele’s clutch free throws, forcing the game into overtime. Petro’s resilience and tactical execution were evident as they outscored the Tigers 19-9, sealing their victory.

Petro’s Captain Carlos Morais praised the efforts of guard Samkelo Cele. “I love Samkelo, he is a great competitor, and from the last season, he has been growing and he is playing unbelievably. Coming into this game, the goal was to stop Cele because he is their best scorer and we respect him, I think he is gonna keep growing, he has a bright future.”

Coach Florsheim Ngwenya reflected on his team’s performance throughout the competition. “Congratulations to my guys because this is huge. Being at this stage of the competition gives everyone hope. We have done the impossible – it proves that South Africa has talent. However, how we organize the talent moving forward is important.

Petro will face Al Ahly Libya in the Finals on Saturday, and it’s a match-up that Morais looks forward to. “It’s going to be a battle, Solo Diabate is my good friend but it is gonna be a battle. I will try to not let him get the third one [title] and he will definitely try to stop me from getting my first one [title], but we are going to be ready to compete. I am sure it is going to be a good final.”

In the first semi-final of the day, Al Ahly Libya defeated The Rivers Hoopers 89-83, securing their spot in the finals. Al Ahly started the game strong offensively, finishing the first quarter with a 27-21 lead. By halftime, they had extended their advantage to 48-37, taking advantage of Rivers Hoopers’ turnovers and foul troubles.

Despite early struggles, the Rivers Hoopers displayed good ball movement and teamwork. However, three of their starters got into foul trouble, which impacted them down the stretch.

Al Ahly vs Rivers Hoopers in the BAL
Jeremy Golden directs traffic for Al Ahly Benghazi during the BAL semi-final against Rivers Hoopers.

Al Ahly Coach Ivan Jermic commented, “On paper, they are better than us, but statistics lie. Only their free-throw shooting was different. They shot 45% from the free throw line, and I think that is what determined the game.”

The third quarter saw a remarkable comeback from the Rivers Hoopers. Will Perry sparked the revival with back-to-back three-pointers, bringing his team within two points. The Rivers Hoopers continued their momentum into the fourth quarter, briefly taking an eight-point lead with six minutes remaining. However, Al Ahly fought back to tie the game and push it into overtime, ultimately securing their victory.

Coach Ogoh Odaudu says they consumed energy trying to close the score. “I think we spent a lot of energy trying to get back into the game. We dug ourselves out of a 14-point hole, but what’s done is done.” Despite the loss, Odaudu was pleased with his team’s efforts. “I am proud of our team. We hold our heads high. Nobody believed in us, but we are here. Unfortunately, our fairytale run has come to an end, but the third-place game still means a lot to us, and we are ready for it.”

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What will Rivers Hoopers’ impact be in BAL Season 4?

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RIVERS Hoopers head into Season 4 of the Basketball Africa League (BAL) after last appearing in 2021. The Big Tip Off previews the King’s Men ahead of the continental tournament.

Team: Rivers Hoopers Basketball Club

Country: Nigeria

History: The Nigerian side returns to the BAL for their second appearance. They were founded in 2005 in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, as Royal Hoopers. They became Rivers Hoopers in 2019 when the Government of River State took over the team. The team participates in the Nigerian Premier League (NPL) and has enjoyed great success. They have won the national championship five times. They bowed out of the BAL tournament in the group stages when they last participated in 2021.

Ogoh Oduadu with the Nigerian national team.
Ogoh Odaudu (pictured coaching Nigeria) and the Rivers Hoopers will return to the BAL. Pictures: FIBA.

Route to BAL: Nigeria is one of the six countries that do not have to qualify for the BAL through Road To BAL. Their national champion automatically qualifies. 

Coach: Former Nigerian national team player Ogoh Odaudu will lead the Hoopers in their second appearance at the BAL. The former point guard has been club coach since 2009 during which he has won the national championship five times. He is also part of the national team coaching staff. Odaudu was head coach at AfroCAN in 2019 and assistant at the Tokyo Olympics. The experienced coach will be looking to take his team further this time towards achieving the ultimate goal of winning the BAL.

Star player: Victor Anthony Koko is the star player. The Nigerian centre is the team captain and leader. He will be looking to lead his team to greater heights in the tournament after a poor campaign in 2021. He averaged 7 points and 8 rebounds per game in that season. Koko also represented Nigeria in the FIBA AfroCAN in 2019. Koko has since been named finals MVP in the NPL.

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Uzoh brings a high IQ for Hoopers’ BAL campaign

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Uzoh, a Jack of all trades on the court

IN their quest to be the continent’s best in the inaugural Basketball Africa League (BAL), which takes place in Kigali, Rwanda (May 16), Rivers Hoopers of Nigeria have tooled up for their campaign.

Given the magnitude of the tournament, adding a few sharp implements for the battle is par for the course. So, having landed the signature of experienced D’ Tigers point guard Ben Uzoh was a massive coup for Hoopers.

Second Picture
Ben Uzoh will bring a high level of competitiveness for Hoopers in the BAL tournament. Pictures: FIBA

Uzoh, who has yet to join up with his teammates for the tournament, gave some insights into what led to him joining Rivers Hoopers. The 33-year-old floor general had caught the eye of other clubs before signing for the Nigerian club.

“There were other teams that had got in touch with me. One of my younger brothers, who was looking to play in the BAL, asked me to reach out to some contacts in Nigeria for him. I reached out to head coach Ogoh Oduadu on my brother’s behalf, but they were interested in me. I just ended up negotiating terms, and we agreed on a deal. So that’s how it materialised,” said the Houston-born Uzoh.

The Hoopers will draw from the wealth of experience carried by Uzoh, who has had short stints in the NBA for the Brooklyn Nets, Cleveland Cavaliers, Toronto Raptors and stops in Europe and Mexico. Internationally he was part of the Nigeria D’ Tigers team that won the 2015 AfroBasket held in Tunisia and played at the Rio Olympics in 2016.

While Uzoh’s CV makes for good reading, his primary concern is that he blends in well with his teammates.

“I hope we can pick on some good chemistry in a situation like this. We don’t have a lot of time to get used to each other. Thankfully we do have time to prepare for our matches. So hopefully, the chemistry can be quickly acclimated so that we can put in a good performance night in and night out,” said the former Tulsa Golden Hurricanes player.

 

 

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While Hoopers have added Uzoh, Uganda’s Robinson Opong (small forward), and Americans Chris Daniels (centre) and Taren Sullivan (small forward), the new players come into a team short on match fitness. The lack of games was due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and while things have opened up in Nigeria, the local league has yet to resume.

The lack of games to prepare for the BAL is lamentable, but Uzoh has taken the situation in his stride. He also expects that his teammates will also adopt a similar attitude.

“I think three-and-half weeks at this point is more than enough time to be in good shape. Hopefully, the guys have been doing a lot of things on their own,” said Uzoh.

He also believes that players should have an attitude of accountability ahead in preparation for the tournament.

Ben Uzoh feature picture
Ben Uzoh hopes he can build good chemistry with his teammates.

“You have to rely on experience. You have to take care of your body day in and day out. We are all professionals at this particular point in our lives. You have to respect the game to a certain extent. It’s natural to worry, but I don’t want to worry about it too much,” said Uzoh.

A lot will rest on Uzoh’s shoulders, as the Port Harcourt-based team will rely on his experience to have a successful campaign in Rwanda. With the career that he has had, Uzoh is familiar with such situations, and he expects to maintain his high standard of play throughout the tournament.

“My contribution to the team will be no different from my previous teams. I can contribute to the team in terms of leadership, basketball IQ and personality perspective. I am a jack of all trades. A guy that can do a little bit of everything on the court,” said Uzoh.

Judging from Uzoh’s confidence, and going by his playing experience, Hoopers have landed a polished gem. Now he will be expected to deliver glittering performances in Kigali.

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BAL an opportunity for players to showcase their talents

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Hoopers adopt a championship attitude

AS Rivers Hoopers’ and their shooting guard Benjamin Ikechukwu get ready for the inaugural Basketball Africa League (BAL) tournament in Kigali, Rwanda, a new appreciation for life and the game has engulfed him.

Upon reflection, Ikechukwu says the lockdown of Nigeria, last year due to Covid-19, taught him to value the bonds of family and friendship. He has also learnt the importance of basketball, which he was unable to play or practice during the lockdown.

Benjamin Ikechukwu to ready BAL showcase
Benjamin Ikechukwu is excited about the return of the BAL. Pictures: FIBA

“It made me appreciate basketball a lot. Before the pandemic, I could wake up and go to the basketball court. During the national lockdown, it was not possible. I had to travel and find places with basketball courts to put in the work. I am grateful that things are now beginning to open up,” said the 23-year-old. “I have learnt there’s more to life than just living. I did not think there would be a time where there would be restrictions on seeing friends and family. You can’t see them because of the fear of Covid. From that aspect, I have learnt to appreciate life, friendship and family more.

Following the self-reflection, Ikechukwu has turned his attention to the BAL tournament, which tips off in Kigali on May 16. He and his Rivers Hoopers teammates have been sweating it out in preparation for the FIBA and NBA backed competition.

“I am excited because we have been looking forward to this tournament. It’s a victory for every team and player participating in it. It’s an opportunity for players to showcase their talents,” said Ikechukwu.

While Ikechukwu is happy to be back on the court, he is worried that the Port Harcourt based club is yet to play any competitive basketball, as some action on the hardwood would go some way in getting him and his teammates in-match shape.

“It’s been going great, but it could be better. We have not played together because of the pandemic. The Nigerian league has also not commenced, so we have not been able to get any competitive basketball. In preparing for BAL we have put in the work, though.” said the Lagos resident.

While Hoopers have had to make do with practices, the shooting guard says team coach Ogoh Oduadu encouraged the team to approach the situation with a winners attitude.

“Our coach has also told us to approach every practice like we are playing for a championship. So every practice we go at each other, we play like we are unfamiliar to each other. We have built an attitude, where despite not having played games, we want to compete and be aggressive,” said Ikechukwu.

Going into a tournament like BAL, teams have reinforced their squads with talents from across the continent and overseas. The Hoopers are no different; they have added D’Tigers point guard Ben Uzoh, two imports from America in Chris Daniels (centre) and Taren Sullivan (small forward). Uganda Silverbacks guard/forward Robinson Opong has replaced Festus Ezeli, who suffered a knee strain during a team practice.

Ikechukwu believes the new additions will bring value to the Hoopers. He hopes there will be a positive exchange between the new players and the current squad.

I think they are essential inclusions to boost the team. They will come with their experience and exposure to basketball. So we are looking forward to them blending in with the team. It’s an opportunity to share knowledge. Teach them how we play basketball here in Africa and also learn from them,” said Ikechukwu.

Given the talent on their roster for the competition, it is clear the three-time Nigerian league title winners want to leave their mark on the continent.

Benjamin Ikechukwu Third Picture
Benjamin Ikechukwu in action.

“As a team, I expect us to compete as hard as we can. We want to make the club proud, the state proud, and our nation proud. Hopefully, we can have a podium finish. That would be nice,” said Ikechukwu.

By Hoopers participating on the BAL stage, Ikechukwu hopes the Nigerian government will plough more resources into basketball. As a nation that has produced and exported notable talents, basketball does not enjoy the prominence it deserves.

“I hope somebody can implore the government to invest more in the sport and help us do better. Football is not the only sport in Nigeria. There are other sports like basketball, handball, volleyball and other sports that need support too,” said Ikechukwu.

The Hoopers are on the biggest stage of African basketball, which is already hard to ignore. Can they put in performances that will make people stand and take notice? The May 16 tip-off of the BAL will reveal all.

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New villain in town halts basketball

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FROM a city that never sleeps to a city that never wakes. From having gridlock traffic to empty roads and streets. This is the new reality in Lagos! I have never seen Lagos like this, until the Coronavirus pandemic.

The government imposed a lockdown and has instructed people to stay at home and only go out to get essentials. For a people that are always on the move, it felt like a deprivation of our existence. We could not even converge at our various religious houses to pray against this virus that has altered the way we live. I guess we will do the “casting and binding” from our various homes.

Before the pandemic, I was in Port Harcourt where my basketball club, Rivers Hoopers is based. As winners of the domestic competition in Nigeria last season, we gained the right to represent the country at the inaugural season of the 2020 Basketball Africa League (BAL). We were having intense training sessions, with the mindset of showcasing our talent at a high level and on a new platform. Little did we know that the pandemic was going to halt the commencement of the league and stop major sporting activities across the world.

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Rivers Hoopers shooting guard Benjamin Ikechukwu believes it’s time for global citizenry. Picture: Supplied

I was disappointed because we had prepared our bodies and minds for the challenge. At first, I just wanted the league to start irrespective of what was going on, but in hindsight, that would have been selfish of me because a lot of people would be exposed to and endangered by the virus. This new villain in town watered down the thrill and excitement, even as our superheroes (COVID-19 first responders) combat, contain and find a panacea.

I miss playing basketball. I feel incomplete, being unable to do the very thing that brings joy to my soul. The absence of having fans around during practice, at games, being in the gym working out with teammates, the adrenaline pumping, while we go hard at each other, just so we can be ready to compete, has been a difficult adjustment. I miss the entire basketball fraternity.

It has been challenging to sustain the progress made in preparation for the league, before the lockdown. As a shooting guard, I need to practice my shots frequently, but without a hoop at home and not being able to utilise the local courts because of safety concerns, it hurts.

I have been putting in the work at home, and even with limited space, I have managed to stay in shape and eat right because you never know when the next opportunity to play will emerge, and like a boy scout, I have to be prepared.

However, I have used this period to spend quality time with my wife and our three-month-old baby. I have also been reflecting on how COVID-19 has elaborated the fact that we need each other, because there is more that unites us than separates us as humans. We need to treat the Earth better, as pollution drastically dropped due to the lockdown across the world. The need to be good global citizens cannot be over-accentuated at this time, as we collectively find ways to help each other get through this challenging time.

Life as we know it, may not be the same, but I look forward to the day when I can play basketball, shake hands, hug people freely and see the smiles on their faces without masks. Until then, let us all stay safe.

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