Hoopers, Flyers, Chiefs, Skyhawks reach NPBL Final Four

Rivers Hoopers, Maktown Flyers, Gboko City Chiefs, and newcomers Aso Skyhawks have secured their spots in the Final Four of the 2026 Nigeria Premier Basketball League. This came after the Final 8 wrapped up in Port Harcourt on Saturday, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

These four teams will now compete for the league title and a chance to play in the Basketball Africa League. The past seven days were filled with thrilling games and unexpected results.

Even after losing 67-74 to Aso Skyhawks in their last match, six-time champions Rivers Hoopers made it to the Final Four. The hosts faced a tough game against the newcomers, who delivered a strong performance to finish their Final 8 journey and claim their own spot in the last four.

Defending champions Maktown Flyers and Gboko City Chiefs also earned their places in the Final Four. On the final day, other teams that did not qualify had to leave the competition.

Kano Pillars ended their run with a win, grabbing their second victory in the Final 8 against Hoops and Read. Both teams were looking for a second win, but it was Kano Pillars who came out on top.

Lagos Raptors played for pride and put up a tough fight against Gboko City Chiefs. Although they were seen as heavy underdogs, they took a 10-point lead at one point and led 35-31 at half-time.

But Marcus Thomas Jr. made a three-pointer at the buzzer, cutting the lead to one point at 35-34. The match remained close, but Gboko City Chiefs ultimately won 78-76.

In the day's third match, 313 Warriors fought hard against the defending champions. They started slow and trailed 9-24 at first. But in the fourth quarter, they cut the gap to five points before Rivers Hoopers held on to win 64-54.

Now that the Final 8 has finished, Hoopers, Flyers, Chiefs, and Skyhawks are focusing on the Final Four. They are all eager to win the NPBL title and earn a spot in the Basketball Africa League.

The Nigeria Basketball Federation is expected to announce the date and venue for the Final Four soon.