After a dominant year on the domestic basketball scene, River Hoopers center Peter Olisaemeka is setting his sights on achieving continental success in the upcoming Basketball Africa League (BAL).
Speaking on their impressive Final Four finish in 2024, Olisaemeka is confident the team will return stronger and better prepared for the 2025 edition, set to begin in April.
“We surprised the continent for the very first time,” Olisaemeka said, “but now we’re coming back better prepared and hopefully with a bigger, better result.”
The Port Harcourt-based team has been a force to reckon with in Nigerian basketball, securing their place as one of the BAL representatives through stellar performances in local competitions.
Now, with lessons learned from last season, they aim to take their dominance beyond Nigeria.
“We’re not searching for anything less. “We’re looking for the best possible result for the next round of the BAL,” Olisaemeka assured.
The River Hoopers will face stiff competition from the top clubs across Africa, including perennial favorites like US Monastir of Tunisia and Petro de Luanda of Angola.
However, the team’s blend of youthful energy and experienced players, coupled with rigorous preparations, has fueled River Hoopers’ ambition to claim the BAL2025 title.