Nigerian basketball champions Rivers Hoopers have bolstered their squad with the re-signing of center Peter Olisemeka ahead of their campaign in the 2025 Basketball Africa League (BAL).
Olisemeka, who played a crucial role in the team’s third-place finish last season, returns to the Port Harcourt-based club as they prepare for the Kalahari Conference games set to take place from April 5 to 13 in Morocco.
His return follows the club’s recent signing of Canadian-born Nigerian Kelvin Amayo, with further reinforcements expected in the coming days.
Rivers Hoopers have been drawn in a competitive group featuring tournament hosts FUS Rabat, debutants Al Ittihad, and 2023 third-place finishers Stade Malien.
They are set to play the season opener against Stade Malien on April 5 in Rabat.
The 6-foot-9 center played a pivotal role in the team’s historic third-place finish in the 2024 BAL season, helping them secure the best-ever placement for a Nigerian club in the competition.
Last season, Olisemeka averaged 10 points per game (PPG), 11.7 rebounds per game (RPG), 2 assists per game (APG), and 1.4 blocks per game (BLKPG) in nine appearances for Rivers Hoopers.
His performances included three double-doubles against US Monastir, AS Douanes, and APR in the Sahara Conference.
Both Olisemeka and Amayo were instrumental in Rivers Hoopers’ success last season, and their experience will be crucial as the team looks to improve on their previous performance.
Under head coach Ogoh Odaudu, Rivers Hoopers will be making their third appearance in the BAL.
With their squad taking shape, the KingsMen are determined to make a strong statement in the upcoming competition as they aim for BAL glory.
