Rivers Hoopers win Sahara Conference, make history.
Intense competition with overtime dramas.
US Monastir stages remarkable comeback, advances.
Rwanda misses playoffs for the first time.
Historic Achievement
Rivers Hoopers made history by clinching the 2024 Sahara Conference title with a remarkable 4-2 record. The Nigerian side’s impressive performance marks their first-ever advancement to the postseason, signaling their growing dominance in African basketball.
Intense Competition
The conference witnessed thrilling matchups, with only four out of twelve games ending in double-digit winning margins. Notable among these was the conference opener, where APR secured a hard-fought 89-84 overtime victory against US Monastir, setting the tone for the competitive atmosphere throughout the event.
Overtime Dramas
Overtime games added to the excitement, with APR’s victory over US Monastir marking the first overtime game since 2022. In another historic moment, Rivers Hoopers prevailed over APR in a thrilling double-overtime clash, further highlighting the teams’ determination and resilience.
US Monastir’s Resurgence
Despite a rocky start, US Monastir mounted an impressive comeback, winning their last three games to secure a playoff berth. Their resilience in overcoming a 0-3 deficit to finish 3-3 underscores the team’s fighting spirit and determination to succeed.
Spectatorship and Dignitary Presence
The conference attracted large crowds, particularly during AS Douanes’ matches, with nearly 9000 fans in attendance for their game against Rivers Hoopers. Notably, the presence of African Heads of State, Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Rwanda’s Paul Kagame, added prestige to the event, symbolizing the growing significance of basketball in Africa.
Rwanda’s Absence
For the first time in league history, Rwanda will not be represented in the playoffs, with APR failing to secure a spot due to injuries to key players Adonis Filer and Obadiah Noel. This marks a significant departure from previous editions, where Rwandan teams such as Patriots BC and Rwanda Energy Groups (REG) were prominent contenders.
Standout Performers
Several players left their mark on the conference, with standout performances shaping the tournament’s narrative. Obadiah Noel’s buzzer-beater three-pointer for APR against US Monastir and Devine Eke’s consistent double-double displays for Rivers Hoopers stood out as memorable moments, showcasing the individual brilliance that characterized the event.
Playoff-bound Teams
AS Douanes, Rivers Hoopers, and US Monastir secured their spots in the playoffs, while APR’s journey came to an end with a 2-4 record. The upcoming playoffs promise more thrilling matchups and intense competition as the top teams vie for continental glory.
As the Sahara Conference draws to a close, the stage is set for the playoffs and finals in Kigali, where the best teams from across Africa will compete for basketball supremacy.
Performers across the tournament and beyond
Obadiah Noel: Despite injury, APR’s hero scored crucial points, notably in the overtime victory against US Monastir, totaling 23 points.
Devine Eke: Rivers Hoopers’ standout player recorded three double-doubles in six games, averaging 12 points and 10 rebounds per game.
Adonis Filer: APR’s influential player, sidelined by injury, his absence impacted team performance, contributing to their elimination.
US Monastir’s Team Effort: Despite a slow start, the team rallied together, showcasing resilience and determination, with key players averaging 15 points per game during their three-game winning streak.
AS Douanes’ Home Crowd: The Senegalese team enjoyed tremendous support from their fans, with nearly 9000 spectators cheering them on during key matches.
Presidential Presence: The attendance of African Heads of State, including Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Rwanda’s Paul Kagame, elevated the event’s significance.
