John Edoga reflects on first season with Rivers Hoopers
John Idoga has reflected on his first season with Rivers Hoopers, describing it as a period of growth, adaptation and renewed ambition as he looks ahead to the next campaign.
The forward joined the Port Harcourt-based club ahead of the 2025 season, stepping into a team that had already built a reputation as one of the dominant forces in Nigerian basketball. The KingsMen had won back-to-back league titles and also finished third at the Basketball Africa League (BAL) in 2024.
Despite a strong season individually, Rivers Hoopers narrowly missed out on BAL qualification after suffering a heartbreaking defeat to Lagos Legends in the final seconds of the 2025 NPBL Final Four.
“It was really tough for me, to be honest,” Idoga said while reflecting on the loss. “Coming into the club and then not being able to clinch that BAL ticket at the end of the season was painful. But in basketball you either win or lose, and unfortunately we ended up on the losing side.”
The player, fondly nicknamed “Johnny Walker,” admitted that joining the club initially felt like stepping into unfamiliar territory, especially after relocating to Port Harcourt. However, he credited the club’s welcoming environment for helping him settle quickly.
“Everyone knows Rivers Hoopers is a big club in Nigerian basketball, but when I arrived I realised it’s more than just a team — it’s a family. The coaches, my teammates and especially the fans create a great environment.”
Breaking into the starting lineup was another challenge for Idoga, with several players competing for the same position. He said discipline and self-belief helped him earn opportunities during the season.
His efforts were eventually rewarded with a place in the league’s All-Star Five, a milestone he described as one of the proudest moments of his career so far.
Idoga also credited head coach Ogoh Odaudu for playing a significant role in his development.
“Coach Ogoh has particularly played a big role. He’s one of the best coaches in Nigeria, and working with him has given me a great opportunity to improve my game,” he said.
Looking ahead, the forward is determined to help Rivers Hoopers reclaim the Nigeria Premier Basketball League title while also chasing individual honours.
“The main target is to win the league and correct the mistakes we made last season. On a personal level, one of my dreams is to be named the league’s MVP.”
After a season defined by resilience and personal progress, Idoga says he is fully settled with the KingsMen and ready to turn his individual growth into team success in the coming campaign.
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