Port Harcourt based team and two time DSTV Premier Basketball League champions, Rivers Hoopers, continue preparation for the new season as they announce the team roster for the 2017 Season. The team let go 4 of the 14 players that featured for them last season and recruited 5 experienced players including legendary guard, Anyebe Ujoh.
Anyebe Ujoh was part of the Rivers Hoopers (then Royal Hoopers) team that won the DSTV Premier Basketball League championship in 2011. The first in the franchise history. Subsequently, he won the league championship every year with all the teams he`s played for from 2011 to 2015 - Rivers Hoopers (2012), Kano Pillars (2013 & 2014), Mark Mentors (2015). He is about the only player in the male league that has won the championship for 5 straight years.
Speaking on the decision to bring Anyeba back, Rivers Hoopers` General Manager Ifie Ozaka said "Anyebe Ujoh brings stability to our guard position, something that was lacking a bit last season. His experience is extremely valuable to the team, both on and off the team"
The message is clear Rivers Hoopers are gunning for the title this year. "The message is not subtle in any way. We intend to compete for the title this season." He added.
Other new recruits to the team include Emmanuel Balogun (Nigeria Customs), Solomon Ajagbeyi (Nigeria Customs), Oghenetano Emuhowo (Delta Force) and Buchi Nwaiwu (Plateau Peaks). This means that more than half of the team will be experienced players contrary to the last season where only a handful of players had league experience.
"You really can`t win the league without parading some experienced players. We have looked at positions where we needed to improve and added the necessary personnel to have a more stable and competitive squad. The additions do not guarantee success; We must dig deep and work hard then pray for that bit of luck to achieve our goal." - GM Ozaka
Here is the full list of the 2017 Rivers Hoopers team;
Victor James (PG)
Victor Atisele (PG)
Anyebe Ujoh (PG)
Ronald Alalibo (SG)
Emmanuel Balogun (SG)
Victor Dakoru (SG)
Idikibiebuma Ogan (SF)
Zidougha Bodisowei (SF)
Somto Managor (PF)
Belema Alamina (PF)
Buchi Nwaiwu (PF)
Ngowari Bobmanuel (C)
Oba Tonye (C)
Solomon Ajagbeyi (C)
Oghenetano Emuhowo (C)
Rivers Hoopers will play in the Atlantic Conference alongside Delta Force, Kwara Falcons, Nigeria Customs, Oluyole Warriors, Hoops & Read, Police Baton and NAF Rockets Basketball Club. The 2017 Season is expected to tip off in April.
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