ASPAC BC made history with a stunning 80-77 overtime win over Rivers Hoopers in the 2025 Louis Edem Championship. Despite a controversial no-call, ASPAC’s resilience and clutch plays, led by MVP Jacob Dembélé, secured their first-ever title, marking Benin's rise in African basketball.
Last Updated on
February 14, 2025
In a phenomenal West African basketball clash of the highest level at the Suru Lere Stadium in Lagos, Benin Republic's ASPAC BC etched their name in history with a thrilling 80-77 overtime victory over Nigerian powerhouse Rivers Hoopers in the final of the 2025 Louis Edem Invitational Basketball Championship. ASPAC's resilience and determination saw them overturn an 18-point deficit, culminating in a stunning walk-off three-pointer that sealed their first-ever title in this prestigious competition. However, the defining moment of the game—a blatant backcourt violation with just seven seconds left—was inexplicably ignored by the referee stationed at the halfway line, leading directly to the championship-winning shot.
While the controversial no-call will be a major talking point, nothing can take away from ASPAC's remarkable achievement. Their triumph is a testament to their unrelenting fighting spirit and a reflection of the steady growth of Beninese basketball. This victory sent shockwaves through West African basketball as supporters, players, and staff from fellow Beninese clubs Energie BBC and Elan Coton BBC erupted in celebration, recognizing the significance of ASPAC's milestone win. The club has firmly established itself as a rising force in Beninese and African basketball, proving that Benin's basketball scene is flourishing and ready to compete at the highest level.
Rivers Hoopers, the reigning Nigerian champions and former winners of the tournament, seemed destined for victory after a dominant display that saw them build an 18-point lead early in the fourth quarter. Led by sharpshooter Johnson Anaiye and the ever-reliable Michael Daramola, the KingsMen controlled the tempo for most of the game, energizing the Lagos crowd. However, ASPAC had no intention of going down without a fight.
Guided by tournament MVP Jacob Dembélé and key contributors Roland Adjado, Abbas, and Joël, ASPAC fought their way back, cutting into the deficit with sheer determination. Their defensive intensity and clutch shot-making silenced the Hoopers' offense, setting up a dramatic finish. With just seconds remaining in regulation, Adjado drained a clutch three-pointer to force overtime, stunning the Nigerian fans and shifting the momentum in ASPAC's favor.
Overtime was a battle of nerves, with both teams exchanging crucial blows. Anaiye hit back-to-back threes to put Rivers Hoopers ahead, but ASPAC responded immediately, showing the composure of champions. With 10 seconds left, Daramola knocked down a free throw to tie the game at 77-77. Then came the game's most contentious moment.
ASPAC's ball-handler stepped back into his half—a clear backcourt violation that should have halted the play instantly. The referee, positioned directly at the halfway line, had an unobstructed view but failed to make the call. While the Hoopers bench and fans erupted in protest, ASPAC capitalized on the opportunity. The ball was quickly moved to the corner, where Ghikel Sagbohan drained a cold-blooded three-pointer as the buzzer sounded, sealing an unforgettable victory for ASPAC.
The explosion of joy that followed was a moment of pride for Beninese basketball. This triumph represents a turning point, solidifying ASPAC's status as a legitimate powerhouse on the continental stage. The club's resilience throughout the tournament, finishing unbeaten and taking down formidable opponents, underscores the progress of basketball in Benin Republic.
However, while the tournament was a resounding success and showcased elite African basketball, the officiating error raises serious concerns about the sport's professionalism. Nigerian basketball has been making significant strides, with tournaments like the Louis Edem Invitational providing a platform for professional growth. Yet, moments like this threaten the sport's credibility, highlighting the need for higher officiating standards in high-stakes games
With the Louis Edem Championship now in the books, Rivers Hoopers must quickly turn their focus to the upcoming Basketball Africa League (BAL) Season 5, where they will represent Nigeria in the annual continental showdown. But while their sights are set on new challenges, the painful memory of this controversial loss will linger. Meanwhile, ASPAC will celebrate a defining moment in their club's history that signals the rise of Benin basketball on the African stage.
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