Port Harcourt based basketball team, Rivers Hoopers started their home series this season with an 85-57 victory over their Southern opponents, Delta Force in a week 3 game of the 2016 DSTV Basketball League.
In what was a blistering start to the Match day 3 game decided at 59, Niger Street, Port Harcourt, the former champions routed their visitors 29-6 to set up a commanding lead in the first quarter.
Hoopers shooting guard, Ronald Alalibo continued from where he left off in Lagos scoring three straights 3 pointers out of his 6 shots in the first quarter and had a total of 14 points in the entire game.
The home side continued their impressive start in the second quarter adding more 15points and keeping their lead intact into the break with a 41-21 over the team from Asaba.
All was balanced between both sides defensively as Hoopers could only score a total of 13 points in the 3rd quarter with Victor Dakoru guilty of missing three of his 3pointer-attempts.
The first five minutes of the 3rd quarter was quite worrisome for the Port Harcourt side who could only get a lone shot. With four mins left in the 3rd quarter however, Hoopers point guard Victor Atisele brought life into the game as well as Belema Alamina making his 3 pointer count and scoring a game high 16 points.
Others who got double points in the game are, Ronald Alalibo (14), Victor Atisele(12) and Victor Dakoru (11).
Points amassed in the last quarter was even between the two sides as both side scored 30 points each but it was not enough for the visitors to get back into the game.
After the game, Hoopers coach, Ogoh Odaudu wished his team had done better despite the convincing victory over Delta Force.
“I think we did well in defense but offensively we didn’t do too well but in the defensive aspect of the game, I think we did a good job. We are going to talk about it and come out blazing. I am not satisfied but I am okay with what happened today.” said Odaudu.
On his own part, Delta Force coach Rodrick Peter remains confident his team will bounce back on Saturday.
“Hoopers really played well and they had the ball coordination. They moved the ball fast and catching my team off defense. I think fatigue took a toll on my players and now that they are a bit relaxed, tomorrow’s game will surely be better for us.” Peter explained.
Hoopers will play against the Forces from Delta again at the same venue, 59 Niger Street on Saturday (today) in what will be their 4th match of the season.
The Hoopers presently have a 2 wins, one loss record.
