Rivers Hoopers have announced the re-signing of center, Chris Olisemeka, ahead of their campaign in the Kalahari Conference of the Basketball Africa League (BAL). The KingsMen had previously announced the addition of Canadian-born Nigerian, Kelvin Amayo, and hinted at more signings this week.
Olisemeka rejoins the Port Harcourt club after helping the team finish third in last season’s BAL and winning the Nigerian league title. The 6’9″ center averaged 10 points, 11.7 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game in nine games played for the KingsMen at the 2024 BAL.
Olisemeka also recorded three double-doubles against US Monastir, AS Douanes, and APR in the Sahara Conference. Both Olisemeka and Amayo were instrumental in the team’s historic third-place finish at the last edition.
The KingsMen have been scheduled to play their season opener against Stade Malien on April 5 in Rabat, Morocco. This will be the team’s third appearance at the 2025 Basketball Africa League.
Rivers Hoopers secured their ticket to this year’s BAL by retaining their Nigeria Premier Basketball League title with a commanding 71-54 win over Hoops and Read Basketball Club in the playoffs final last November in Port Harcourt.
The team has been drawn against hosts FUS Rabat, debutants Al Ittihad, and 2023 third-place team Stade Malien in the first stage of the tournament. With the re-signing of Olisemeka and the addition of Amayo, the KingsMen will be looking to make a strong impact in the Kalahari Conference.
Coach Ogoh Odaudu’s side will be facing stiff competition in the tournament, but with their recent signings and experience in the BAL, they will be confident of making a deep run in the competition.
The 2025 Basketball Africa League promises to be an exciting tournament, with some of the best teams from across the continent competing for the top prize. Rivers Hoopers will be looking to make their mark on the competition and bring glory to Nigeria.