Lagos Legends have achieved a thrilling victory. They defeated Rivers Hoopers 74-72 in Port Harcourt on Sunday. This win ended Hoopers’ quest for a third consecutive Nigeria Basketball Premier League title. It also secured Nigeria’s slot at the 2025 Basketball Africa League (BAL).
Both teams entered the Final Four decider with two wins each. Lagos Legends had previously broken Hoopers’ long unbeaten run. That happened with an 80-79 victory in the final eight. The Legends quickly signaled their intent for another upset. They began strongly, forcing Hoopers to play catch-up from the start.
A Battle to the Buzzer
Rivers Hoopers secured a slim 20-19 lead in the first quarter. Yet, the game remained incredibly close. Lagos Legends maintained their pressure. They leveled the score at 32-32 by halftime. This reminded the home crowd they were serious contenders.
Hoopers held a narrow 52-49 advantage into the final quarter. However, the visitors reserved their strongest push for the end. The Legends fought back to tie the score at 61-61. They then briefly took a one-point lead. Hoopers quickly leveled it again at 70-70 with only 39 seconds remaining.
The final seconds were incredibly intense. Hoopers scored two more points. Lagos Legends responded with four crucial points. They snatched the win right at the buzzer. This victory ended the 2024 BAL bronze medallists’ title hopes.
Dominance Shifted
Sunday’s triumph marks a significant achievement. Lagos Legends have now defeated Hoopers twice this season. Their three meetings saw Hoopers’ only win in an 89-70 Inter-Group Phase match.
This victory means Lagos Legends now hold Nigeria’s BAL ticket. Rivers Hoopers had proudly represented Nigeria in the previous two editions. The Legends will carry the nation’s hopes in 2025.
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