BAL: Rivers Hoopers falter to US Monastir in BAL Playoffs opener
The 2025 Basketball Africa League (BAL) playoffs tipped off on Saturday with a tough loss for Nigeria’s Rivers Hoopers, who were defeated 89-81 by Tunisia’s US Monastir at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria.
Despite a promising start, where the Hoopers led 36-32 at halftime, the second half told a different story.
US Monastir, former BAL champions, regrouped after the break and seized control of the game.
Their strong offensive execution and tighter defense in the final two quarters proved too much for the Nigerian side.
Rivers Hoopers will now look to bounce back quickly as they prepare to face Rwanda’s APR in a crucial quarterfinal clash on Monday. A win will be essential to keep their championship hopes alive.
