Game Report: Rivers Hoopers secured third place in the 2024 Basketball Africa League Playoffs by defeating the Cape Town Tigers 80-57. This decisive victory highlights the Hoopers' impressive journey through the tournament, culminating in their well-deserved podium finish.
Last Updated on
June 1, 2024
Fanya Nkengasong
Staff Writer
In the decisive match for third place in Season 4 of the BAL, Rivers Hoopers, led by their coach, recently named Coach of the Year, faced off against the surprising Cape Town Tigers.
The Cape Town Tigers advanced as the best third-placed team, edging out the Central African club Bangui thanks to a favourable goal difference. They reached the semi-finals and now contended for third place against the Nigeria-based Rivers Hoopers, the most balanced team in the finals. The Hoopers, who topped their Sahara group in Dakar, narrowly missed out on a spot in the final after losing to Al Ahly in overtime.
Rivers Hoopers, seeking redemption, demonstrated their strategic prowess by applying intense pressure from the start, winning the first quarter 25-8. Utilising fast breaks effectively, they reached halftime with a score of 43-29, although Cape Town managed to win the second quarter 21-18.
Despite a commendable effort, Cape Town couldn't sustain their momentum. Rivers Hoopers extended their lead, dominating the third quarter 20-9 to hold a commanding 63-38 lead. Amayo (19 points), Eme (16 points), and Perry (16 points) were instrumental in maintaining this advantage. Amayo's accurate shooting and Eme's strong defence were particularly noteworthy. Cape Town fought back to win the final quarter, but the gap was insurmountable. Rivers Hoopers clinched third place with an emphatic 80-57 victory.
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