Port Harcourt Set to Host 2025 Basketball League Finals
The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has announced that Port Harcourt will host the finals of the 2025 Nigeria Men’s Premier Basketball League, bringing one of the nation’s biggest sporting events to the oil-rich city.
In a statement issued by the federation’s secretary, Amina Amanchi, the NBBF Vice President, Babs Ogunade, confirmed that the hosting rights for both the Final 8 and Final 4 tournaments had been officially awarded to the Rivers Hoopers Basketball Club. The club, known for its professionalism and strong presence in Nigerian basketball, will oversee the preparation and organisation of the competition.
According to Ogunade, Rivers Hoopers has committed to providing a standard sporting arena with modern facilities to ensure that the finals meet both local and international standards. He added that the club would ensure adequate security, medical services, and live online streaming of all matches to give basketball fans across the world access to the games.
He further revealed that the club would provide buses for teams, as well as financial support and accommodation subsidies to ease the participation burden on competing sides. This gesture, he noted, demonstrates the Hoopers’ dedication to promoting the growth of basketball and ensuring the success of the league.
The NBBF also released the official dates for the finals. The Final 8 will take place from October 26 to November 3, with all participating teams expected to arrive in Port Harcourt on October 26. The Final 4, featuring the best four teams from the earlier stage, will follow from November 20 to 23, at the same venue.
This announcement has been welcomed by sports enthusiasts and basketball fans, as it marks the first time in years that Port Harcourt will host a major national basketball championship. The city, known for its lively sports culture, is expected to attract a large number of fans, boosting tourism and local business activities during the competition.
The NBBF reaffirmed its commitment to promoting basketball development across Nigeria, emphasizing that hosting events in different regions allows for greater participation, visibility, and grassroots engagement.
As the governing body for basketball in Nigeria, the NBBF oversees both domestic leagues—including the Men’s Premier League and Women’s League—as well as the national teams, the D’Tigers (men) and D’Tigress (women). The federation continues to push for improved infrastructure, talent development, and international recognition for Nigerian basketball.
Fans and stakeholders have expressed excitement ahead of the event, describing it as a major opportunity to showcase Nigerian talent and revive the spirit of competitive basketball nationwide.
