NPBL shockwaves, Hoops N’ Read almost out as Kano Pillars humble Lagos Legends

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By Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye

It’s heartbreak in the Lagos camp. Once the pride of Nigerian basketball, Hoops N’ Read BBC are almost out of the ongoing abridged Nigeria Premier Basketball League (NPBL) — ending their hopes of getting continental action.

Despite a spirited 74–67 win over Nigeria Customs on Match Day 6 in Port Harcourt, the Lagos side’s late rally wasn’t enough to keep their Basketball Africa League (BAL) dream alive. With just two wins in six games, Hoops N’ Read sit sixth on the log — a far cry from their glory days as league heavyweights.

Elsewhere, Gboko City Chiefs continued their ruthless march, dismantling Kwara Falcons 74–60. Led by the high-flying Kareem Joseph, a dunk specialist with a flair for flair, the Chiefs showed no mercy. 

“This win proves our discipline and ability to execute,” Joseph said after the game — and his team’s performance backed it up.

But the real drama unfolded in Game 3. The previously unbeaten Lagos Legends were ripped apart by a resurgent Kano Pillars, who played with purpose and precision. 

From tip-off, Pillars dominated the tempo, exposing the Legends’ weaknesses and sealing a statement victory — one that keeps their slim Final Four hopes alive and sends shockwaves through the league.

To cap off the drama, defending champions Rivers Hoopers survived a late scare from Nile University Spartans, grinding out an 86–83 win. Coach Stanley Dashion’s side pushed hard, but the “Kingsmen” held firm, proving once again why they remain the team to beat in Nigerian basketball.

From heartbreak in Lagos to celebration in Kano and Port Harcourt, Match Day 6 had it all, dunks, drama, and dreams almost dashed. The road to the Final Four just got wilder.

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