The Riders opened their 2024 Playoff campaign on Sunday with an 84-81 win on the road against the Sheffield Sharks.
Series are won and lost through game-to-game adjustments, therefore Rob Paternostro and the team will pour over film from Game One to find an edge for Game Two.
Here’s what the Riders can take from Sunday’s action.
Riders’ rookies show resilience
If there were any nerves from the Riders’ rookies, Jaren Holmes and Miryne Thomaswho were both making their professional playoff debuts, it didn’t show.
The American pair led the team to the Game One win with a combined 46 points and 14 rebounds, both putting up 20 to pick up the scoring load.
Thomas’ Player of the Game performance saw him go off for 24 and 8, shooting 9-12 and making tough plays and highlights from start to finish.
“I love this environment,” said Thomas post-game. “I love playing hard in competitive basketball, and tonight was a hell of a show.”
Meanwhile Holmes played downhill all game from the guard spot, relentlessly attacking the rim to keep the Riders in the game while they trailed through the second and third quarter. Like Thomas, Holmes relished the bright lights with his aggressive play.
“I was just trying to make the right plays,” said Holmes. “That’s what I always try to do. I saw lanes and tried to attack, find my teammates and be aggressive. It’s a big part of my game when I’m aggressive and try to get downhill and make plays for others.”
Sharks’ second unit shoulder scoring
The Sharks’ bench carried their scoring, going off for 59 points led by 25 from Prentiss Nixon. But 22 points from the starters, and none of the Sheffield starters scoring in double digits, meant the Riders had the best of the beginning and end of the game.
Nixon checked in down 10 in the first quarter and scored 11 points in five minutes. His play cut the host’s deficit to two by the end of the first period. The Sharks’ bench was responsible for a 20 point swing in the score that saw them leading by seven with one to play.
Rodney Glasgow Jr., also off the bench for Sheffield, led the team in +/- with 12. That tally was bettered only by Mo Walker for Leicester, who recorded a +/- of 15.
The strong bench showing from the Sharks in Game One means the Riders should be prepared for a potential mix up to the Sheffield starting five.
Should there be no changes, the Riders bench will be required to lock in to stop the Sheffield second unit, which has showcased their firepower to start the series.
Defence wins championships
“Defensively is where we made our mark,” commented Head CoachRob Paternostrofollowing Game One, and that was especially true down the stretch.
The Riders held the Sharks to 14 fourth quarter points after giving up over 20 in each of the first three periods, and got big plays from players in the big moments.
The best defence was played in the first half of the final quarter, with Sheffield managing just six points. Sam Idowublocked RJ Eytle-Rock and stole the ball from Jalon Pipkins in that period of play, and Teddy Allenstripped Nixon to set up a Thomas and-one.
The lockdown defence allowed the Riders to run in transition repeatedly, playing to the strengths of their rookie pair of Thomas and Holmes who thrived on the break.
In the closing minutes, Nixon scored five straight to keep Sheffield in it against Leicester, which allowed the Sharks two possessions to go for the win. But the Riders’ defence stood firm, forcing misses from Pipkins and Malek Green with less than a minute on the clock.
While the Riders entered the game with one of the highest powered offences in the League, they’ll need consistent performances on the defensive end to go all the way in the Playoffs.
In that respect, they’ll be encouraged from Game One.
Shooting struggles
The opening game followed the trend set by the regular season series between these two sides. The two games played in Sheffield this year saw the teams duel out closely fought affairs, with the Riders struggling offensively compared to their performances at home.
In game one of the season series in November, the Riders shot 5-21 from three in a loss, and they suffered an even worse shooting slump in the playoff opener.
It was a 6-26 game from behind the three point line, but the Riders overcame their struggles by generating offence at the rim and in transition.
Game two in December put an end to the Riders’ difficulties from deep. They went 51% in a blowout win. Leicester will hope to see a similar pattern unfold in the playoffs, and be able to rely on their three point shooting at home.
Riders bring the cavalry
The Riders’ travelling crowd got them over the line, packing the stands in Sheffield to get behind the team.
Holmes said post-game that he felt the energy from the stands:
“It was a huge victory for us, and we wouldn’t have done it without the fans,” said Holmes. “They were tremendous. They fuel us when they come and support us, so to have this many people come out and show up for us truly means a lot to me and the guys in the locker room.”
11 years ago, Leicester Riders crowned themselves British Basketball League treble winners for the first time in their history, beating the Newcastle Eagles in the 2013 Playoff Final.
The 2012-13 season would kickstart a decade of dominance for Britain’s oldest professional basketball club, where they would win 17 trophies in the coming years.
Here, we re-live the Playoff Final at Wembley Arena…
Setting the scene
Entering the 2012-13 season, the Newcastle Eagles had established themselves as the premiere team in British basketball.
They completed the fourth quadruple in League history a year prior, and the first since they accomplished the same feat in 2006, led by MVP Joe Chapman.
Chapman returned the following season, as did his supporting cast of Charles Smith, the soon to become League MVP in 2014-15, Darius Defoe who would go on to become the most decorated player in League history, and Player/Coach Fabulous Flournoy who had 18 pieces of British Basketball League silverware to his name.
There was no doubt they were the team to beat going into the season.
But of all the teams looking to knock the Eagles off their perch, the Riders were among the most likely. They had pushed the North Easterners all the way in the League, finishing one win behind them in the standings before losing to them in the Playoff Final to end the year.
Andrew Sullivan in the Riders’ 2012 Playoff Final loss to the Newcastle Eagles.
Their roster featured former MVP with the Eagles Andrew Sullivan, who led them to their quadruple in 2006, and the new acquisitions of exciting young guard Jay Couisnard and experienced forward Anthony Rowe, the latter signing with the Riders midseason after playing four seasons with the Plymouth Raiders.
The Riders had next.
Riders take the torch
The promise they had shown in the previous season came into fruition in 2012-13.
The country’s oldest professional basketball club, with two British Basketball League trophies to their name from a decade prior, established themselves as the League’s best.
Led by young Head Coach Rob Paternostro in his fifth season coaching the team, who was named Ed Pericval Coach of the Year for the second time in his career, the Riders set about winning immediately.
Rob Paternostro celebrating 100 British Basketball League career wins with Riders Managing Director Russell Levenston.
An MVP season from Hall of Famer Sullivan took the Riders to a Cup win, where they beat the Eagles in the Final with a 17 point performance from Couisnard, and the team went on to win the Championship five wins clear of the second-placed Eagles.
Leicester made defence their calling card all season long, and finished the year with the second-best defence in League history. They had defensive difference makers up and down the roster, including Zaire Taylor and Couisnard in the backcourt and up-and-coming star Jamell Anderson on the wing.
Three Riders ended up on the All-Defensive team at the end of the year- Sullivan, Couisnard and Taylor- but Couisnard thought it could have been more.
“I know we had three guys on the All-Defensive team, but I think that’s because they couldn’t have all five of us,” he said after the season.
To further mark their new found dominance over the League, the Riders swept Newcastle 4-0 in the season series on their way to the League win.
The Riders were pipped to the Trophy, losing in the Final 71-69 to the Sheffield Sharks in dramatic fashion, but entered the postseason in search of a historic treble.
Collision course
The sides seemed destined to meet in the Playoff Final from the outset after finishing first and second in the League standings.
“These are the two best teams in the League by a mile,” said London Lions Head Coach Vince Macaulay when asked about the sides. They proved as much.
The Riders engaged in a hard-fought first leg against the London Lions, where they escaped two point winners after finding themselves 14 points down in the tie.
But they took control of the second leg, led by 24 points from Rowe, to progress to the second round.
Rowe was pivotal in Leicester’s playoff run, scoring a team-high 18 points in the first leg of the semi finals against his former side, the Raiders.
Anthony Rowe playing against the Durham Wildcats in the 2012-13 regular season.
The semi finals saw them sweep aside the Raiders by 40 points over the two legs, making it a professional run to the Final at Wembley Arena.
All in all, it was a comfortable road to the Final for the Eagles, who dispatched the Sharks and Surrey United to meet the Riders at the summit once again.
It was only right these sides should meet in the final showdown of the season, as they did the season prior.
Final words
As the Playoff Final returned to Wembley Arena for the first time since 2002, Flournoy had a visible chip on his shoulder before the action began.
He reminisced in a pre-game interview about the last time he faced Leicester in this Arena- the 2001 Playoff Final where he suited up as a player for the Sheffield Sharks.
He came out on the losing side all those years ago, and was in no mood to fall short this time around.
“It’s fantastic being back after 12 years, but hopefully I’ll do the job in this game,” said a determined Flournoy.
Macauley, on punditry, commented on a visibly fired up Flournoy: “Fab Flournoy is a really proud guy, and very successful as a coach.
“He will be absolutely burning inside that the Riders in particular have taken two of their trophies away from them, and tonight is an opportunity to reset that balance.”
Paternostro, in a seemingly more relaxed mood while clutching his Coach of the Year award, reflected on the year so far with pride.
Rob Paternostro collects his 2012-13 Ed Percival Coach of the Year award before the Final.
“I’ve been lucky to coach these guys this year. You always want to win the last game of your season, and we have the opportunity to go out as winners today.
“But whatever happens on the day I’ll be so proud of these guys and I’ve enjoyed competing with them. I’m excited about today.”
Riders bolt out the gate
The Riders started the game relaxed and composed, and the fixture began exactly how they would have wanted: slow, deliberate and low-scoring from the outset.
Rowe set the tone inside with a monster block on the driving Smith, and the Riders controlled the game with a narrow lead through the first period.
Anderson, making a dream start, scored seven points in the opening quarter with relentless attacks to the rim. He sank an and-one finish against Smith to make it 20-9.
Jamell Anderson finishes for two in the first quarter.
On the other end, wherever Smith turned he saw bodies, as he tried to generate some offence against the Riders’ historic defence. He continually forced the issue, but the interior defence of Rob Paternostro’s side saw shots sent away by Rowe, Anderson and Taylor.
For the first time in the game, Sullivan found a rhythm, spelling trouble for the Eagles. He built the lead to 15 with multiple finishes at the rim, backing down Smith repeatedly. Smith had no answer throughout the first half to Sulivan’s post ability, and the MVP ran up the score.
Eagles chip away
As the half came to a close, the Eagles forged a way back into the game. It was Kareem Maddox who snatched momentum by fighting to the free throw line, getting points on the board to cut it to single digits.
This allowed Smith some isolation for the first time in the game, and he too found a way to the foul stripe after taking on Leicester’s Yorick Williams.
Charles Smith makes an and-one play against Yorick Williams.
But in response, Williams put an end to the run with a finish at the rim, and Taylor blocked Smith next time up the floor. The half ended with the Riders leading 38-26. The game was playing out as the low-scoring affair the Riders wanted.
“We’re really putting the effort in on defence and the glass,” said Anderson at the half. “We take pride in our defence, and today we’re showing that.”
Hanging in the balance
The Riders’ defence, still an immovable object out of the break, kept them in the lead as they couldn’t find the bottom of the bucket to start the third period.
The Eagles, simply, had no answer for their size and length, and had no joy driving into the lane from buzzer-to-buzzer.
They did cut the difference to seven emphatically, with Smith throwing up a lob pass which was thrown down two-handed by Defoe in a rim-rocking slam. But Sullivan quieted the noise of the Newcastle fans with a layup next time up the floor.
The game seemed on a knife’s edge midway through the third, with neither side able to seize momentum which would turn the game on its head. Instead, they traded the buckets they could find in a defensive affair, and the difference swung from seven to nine.
Zaire Taylor and Drew Sullivan run the pick and roll against Damon Huffman and Joe Ikhinmwin.
Riders seize initiative
After a cagey phase of the game, it was the Riders who took control. The run was started by Couisnard at the rim, and finished by Sullivan who threw down a monster jam on the break to make the score 53-37.
The highlights didn’t stop there for Leicester. Sullivan’s miss was followed by Anderson, who rose high for a putback slam to put the Riders in firm control going into the final quarter.
Couisnard made another momentum play three minutes into the fourth with a contested triple late in the shot clock to send the Sea of Red in the crowd into raptures. Newcastle did make inroads, bringing it back to ten via Damon Huffman, but Leicester had built a platform to bring it home.
Leicester Riders fans on their feet, appreciated by the bench.
Riders slam the door shut
The Riders fell back on their defence to see it out. They held the Eagles to seven points in the final six minutes of the game, keeping Newcastle at arm’s length as they had done wire-to-wire.
There was no “moment”, no shot to end the game. Just an increasing inevitability, through the Riders defensive suffocation, that the Eagles were unable to mount a comeback.
Anderson made the Riders’ final score with a minute left, and the game ended 67-57.
“The greatest ever season, for the oldest team in British basketball, is going to have a silver and gold lining” was the call from Daniel Routledge on commentary. It was a homage to the Leicester Mercury headline following the Riders’ 2001 Cup win, which read “SILVER LINING”.
The final buzzer sounded, and the bench flooded the court in jubilance.
Leicester Riders celebrating victory on the final buzzer.
Post game reaction
An emotional Paternostro dedicated the victory to his late grandmother after the game, who had passed away earlier in the week.
“She was someone who taught me how to compete, and my guys really competed today.” he reflected post-game.
“We’ve been committed to the defensive end of the floor, and it culminated in this today. All season it’s been about intensity and competitiveness for 40 minutes across all 94 feet.”
Final MVP, Sullivan, who logged 24 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds, echoed his Head Coach’s sentiment on the team’s competitive spirit and defensive mindset.
Final MVP Drew Sullivan lifts the award.
“My teammates have been absolutely incredible. They haven’t been worried about trophies or titles. They have just wanted to win every single game.
“We were upset about bad performances, win or lose. We take pride in playing every minute of every game to the best of our ability.”
An elated Rowe, who made his impact felt defensively and on the glass throughout, looked back to midseason where he signed with the team:
“I’m on cloud 9 right now. The first practice I went to this season, it just felt right.
“I think back to my mum, who always tells me to go with my heart, and I’m so glad I did that this season. We have some amazing British players, from our MVP Drew Sullivan to Jamell Anderson who was phenomenal today.
“The future is bright in British basketball.”
Moving forward
That season kick started one of the most dominant stretches of British basketball history. The Riders would go on to win 17 trophies in the next decade, including three trebles.
It was just the beginning of the rivalry between these sides, who would go head-to-head in the biggest games in British basketball in the next ten years.
The would go on to hoist 27 trophies between them, marking an era of fierce rivalry between the Eagles and Riders.
2013 Playoff Final scorers
Leicester Riders
Newcastle Eagles
Andrew Sullivan
24
Darius Defoe
13
Jamell Anderson
13
Charles Smith
12
Jay Couisnard
8
Kareem Maddox
12
Zaire Taylor
8
Damon Huffman
9
Yorick Williams
7
Joseph Chapman
8
Anthony Rowe
4
Joe Ikhinmwin
3
Jorge Calvo
2
Fabulous Flournoy
0
Pavol Losonsky
2
Anthony Martin
0
The Riders are in Playoff action on Saturday May 4, hosting the Sheffield Sharks for Game Two of the opening round.
It’s a double-header for the Riders, whose men’s and women’s teams are playing back-to-back in their respective playoff games.
The first 1,200 fans through the door will receive a free “Dark Horse” t-shirt!
Leicester Riders got their 2024 Playoff campaign underway with a clutch 84-81 win on the road against the Sheffield Sharks.
The Riders came back from behind in the fourth quarter to snatch the win, and made big plays down the stretch to take a 1-0 series lead back to Leicester.
Thomas said the playoff intensity is something he thrives on through his competitive spirit.
“This time last year, I was playing March Madness,” said Thomas, who won the MAC Championship with Kent State in his final collegiate season.
“I love this environment. I love playing hard in competitive basketball, and tonight was a hell of a show.”
The Riders, without their captain Kimbal Mackenzie, stepped up on the road and came through as a unit to take the win. With the words of Mackenzie echoing in their ears, the team put on one of the performances of the season.
“Kimbal told us to stay together. He’s here with us in spirit- he’s our leader and we know he’s in our corner- but the guys we had here came together and said ‘let’s get the job done.’”
Many of the plaudits this season have gone to the Riders’ leading scorer, Teddy Allen. Allen burst onto the British basketball scene with his incredible scoring performances, earning him the Player of the Month Award in December, but the Riders unit is a deep one, with talent up and down the roster.
Last night’s win, as has been the case with many wins this season, was a total team effort.
“We know Teddy is an incredible scorer, but we have to play well for him to play well. If we don’t run in transition and set good screens, he doesn’t get good looks.
“This is a team unit, not just one guy running the show. Everybody has a role, and we’re really settling into our identity. We play hard for each other.”
Jaren Holmes: “We wanted it badly tonight.”
Also making his first professional playoff outing was Jaren Holmes, who was the other Rider to log a 20 point performance. He put up 21 points and 6 rebounds, and shouldered the scoring load for long stretches.
“I was just trying to make the right plays,” said Holmes. “That’s what I always try and do. I saw lanes and tried to attack, find my teammates and be aggressive. It’s a big part of my game when I’m aggressive and try to get downhill and make plays for others.”
The Riders came back from down seven in the final period to win on the road, holding the Sharks to 14 points in the final quarter. The defence down the stretch was instrumental in getting the job done.
“It came down to getting stops. That was a huge point of emphasis down the stretch. Then we made some big shots, and got big plays from everybody.
“Conner [Washington’s] three midway through the fourth was huge for us. Him coming in and giving us those minutes was so valuable, and it’s going to take a team effort to win these games. It’s the playoffs, which means its a different type of intensity. We wanted it badly tonight.”
The Riders’ road following got the team over the line, making raucous noise throughout. Holmes felt their presence on the court from the stands, and said as much after the game.
“It was a huge victory for us, and we wouldn’t have done it without the fans. They were tremendous. They fuel us when they come and support us, so to have this many people come out and show up for us truly means a lot to me and the guys in the locker room.”
Rob Paternostro: “The guys really stepped up.”
After an electric Riders start, the Sharks took initiative in the second quarter and took the lead, which they held until midway through the fourth.
Despite trailing for much of the game, there was no panic from the Riders’ sideline.
“I felt pretty good about us at that point,” said Head Coach Rob Paternostro when asked about the team’s mindset while falling behind in the game.
“We took decent shots and, in the halfcourt, we did a really good job on defence. In the open floor we struggled, so the second half was really important to slow the game down and get back on defence, and I thought we did that.
“We didn’t feel like the momentum was stolen, we just felt like we needed to do a better job of getting back in transition.”
Without Mackenzie running the point, Paternostro’s team stepped up from top to bottom to come away with a momentous win to kick off the postseason.
“We’re missing our leader- our point guard with the ball in his hands at the end of the game- but the guys really stepped up to make the plays they needed to.
“Miryne’s energy was excellent all game, he scored the ball really well. Jaren kept us in it with his scoring, TJ Lall was really good on defence and Conner came in and gave us the minutes we needed to settle us down late in the game. His experience was crucial- he’s been here before.
“It was a total team effort. We are missing our point guard but these guys took on the challenge. A lot of people didn’t think we had much of a chance without him, but defensively is where we made our mark.”
The win means Leicester have stolen home court advantage in this best-of-three series, and return home on Saturday with a chance to end the series and progress to the second round.
Coach called out to the fans to bring the same energy back home that they showed on the road.
“Our fans were amazing today. It was an incredible job from them right behind the bench, and we need more of that at the Mattioli Arena on Saturday!”
Leicester Riders snatched Game One against the Sheffield Sharks in the clutch, winning 84-81 on the road.
Miryne Thomas led the team with 24 points and 8 rebounds, scoring 5 points down the stretch in his professional playoff debut. Fellow rookie Jaren Holmes backed him with 21 points and 6 rebounds.
It was Teddy Allen who sealed the game from the foul line, going 4-4 with the pressure piled high and seconds on the clock. Leicester came back from a deficit of seven in the final quarter to steal home court in the best-of-three series.
For Sheffield, Prentiss Nixon exploded for 25 points off the bench, getting big bucket after big bucket when it got close late. The Sharks scored 59 bench points in the game, but didn’t have a starter score in double digits.
The series will go back to Leicester for Game Two on Saturday May 4, tipping off at 6:45 pm, with the Riders having the opportunity to end the series with a sweep.
Riders bolt out the gate
Allen, who averaged 29 against the Sharks this season, wasted no time getting on the board with an and-one for Leicester’s opening score.
It was an 8-2 start for the Riders, as Jaren Holmes knocked down his first shot of the postseason from the corner, settling any nerves from the visiting camp.
Leicester’s lightning start forced a quick Sharks timeout, after Thomas threw down a fastbreak jam- the ninth of the night for the Riders to make it 4-14.
Holmes made the Riders’ second and-one play of the game with 2:21 left in the period, as they continued to lead from the front early.
Sharks bite back
The Sharks got back in it at the hands of Nixon, who snatched momentum with five straight points. Nixon scored 11 in the first quarter to lead the game, and bring Sheffield back into it.
Jalon Pipkins then cut it to five with a tough fadeaway, before Rodney Glasgow Jr followed with a three for the hosts.
The late surge in the first meant it was 26-28 with one played. And quickly in the second the Sharks took the lead, as Kipper Nichols connected from the corner to make it 31-30.
It was the Riders’ turn to try to stem the tide with a timeout after Pipkins’ 11th points. But they only scored 10 in the second quarter in their attempt to take the lead back.
Glasgow got going midway through the second to build the Sharks’ lead to six, and the score was 38-32 by the media timeout. Sheffield’s leading scorer Malek Green then took the mantle from Glasgow with three quick scores and a big block on Holmes.
The Riders got to the hoop to get their side of the scoreboard ticking over late in the half. Holmes charged to the paint repeatedly to set the tone in that regard, while Thomas got to the foul line after an offensive rebound, and Leicester brought themselves back within five.
But two scores at the rim for Sheffield ended the half with the score 47-38.
Sharks fend off Riders run
The Riders made a run back into the game with Thomas hitting their first three of the half, while Allen took it coast-to-coast to cut it to five once again.
Holmes added another six to his tally, making it 17 on the game midway through the third, and the score was 57-53 to the hosts.
Next time up, Sesan Russell led the fastbreak after a steal. He gave it to Allen, who threw up a lob to Thomas. The American rose high and threw it down with authority, making it a one score game for the first time since late in the opening period.
The Sharks, however, kept ahead with timely scores throughout the third. Jordan Ratinho hit from three with a minute left in the period, and Devearl Ramsey finished inside at the buzzer to make it 67-60 with one to play.
Resurgent Riders win in the clutch
To start the fourth, the Riders were right back in it. Veteran guard Conner Washington hit a transition three two minutes into the period, making it a two point difference. TJ Lall then tied it up with a putback layup, and Allen took the lead with a floater.
For Sheffield, Nixon came up huge in the fourth. He scored nine of the Sharks’ 14 points in the quarter, and hit a three for his 20th points to stop the rampant Riders.
Nixon went back and forth with Thomas, the pair exchanging tough buckets throughout the final stages. The Riders looked in control late after Thomas connected on a fadeaway, but a Nixon midrange jumper and Pipkins three tied the game at 79.
Pipkins had a shot for the lead with 21 seconds left, but he hit the rim and Allen was fouled on the rebound. Allen knocked down both shots, and next time up the floor Green missed a three to win it, and Allen got the rebound again to seal the Riders Game One win.
Taking a win back to Leicester
Tickets are on sale for Game Two of the series at the Mattioli Arena, on May 4 at 6:45 pm.
Tickets also include entry to the women’s playoff opener against Essex Rebels at 2:45 pm, and the first 1,200 fans through the door will receive a free Riders “Dark Horse” t-shirt.
Leicester Riders are set to take on the Sheffield Sharks for Game One of the opening round of the 2024 British Basketball League Playoffs.
The four-seeded Sharks earned home court advantage after their performances in the Championship this season, so the Riders will take the short trip to Sheffield for the first game of a best-of-three series.
The sides have played out some closely fought battles in Sheffield this season. Here’s everything you need to know about the matchup.
Where to watch
The game will take place at the Canon Medical Arena, Sheffield, tipping off at 4 pm.
The Sharks’ midseason acquisition, Malek Green, hit the ground running in the British Basketball League, and finished the season as their leading scorer.
After going 17 and 7 on his debut in only 16 minutes of action, Green has been a consistent source of boards and buckets for the Sharks, finishing the year with 22 and 14 to lock up home court advantage against the Plymouth City Patriots.
From the wing, Green ranked third among players in rebounds this season, and his 8.7 per game is more than he averaged throughout his five-year college career.
Green averaged 19 and 9 in his two games against the Riders this season, and will pose a true threat throughout this series.
Devearl Ramsey
11.1 points, 4.6 assists, 4.1 rebounds
Devearl Ramsey has protected home court against the Riders this season with two explosive scoring performances.
Typically, Ramsey is the Sharks’ source of playmaking, running the point to lead them in assists this season. But against the Riders the former G-Leager put his scoring ability on full display.
His two highest-scoring games this year have come at home against Leicester, putting up 23 points and 9 assists last time out, and going off for 22 to lead Sheffield to a win in November.
He consistently finds his way to the midrange, where he has shot most efficiently all season, so the Riders will need to be locked into their pick-and-roll defence to stop his drives off the dribble.
Jalon Pipkins
11.8 points, 2.1 rebounds, 51.9 FG%
Sheffield’s second-leading scorer, Jalon Pipkins, has been a consistent source of points for the Sharks this season.
The efficient bucket-getter has scored double-digit points in 25 Championship games, and put up 17 last time he suited up against the Riders.
The 6’5” three-level scorer is a threat from anywhere on the court. He’s a human highlight reel, showcasing some of the most high-flying throw downs in British basketball over the last two seasons in Sheffield.
The Riders’ rim protection will be on high-alert when Pipkins looks to rise high on drives to the hoop.
Season vs Sharks
The Riders have faced off against the Sharks four times this season, winning the season series 3-1.
There was, however, a disparity in their performances when playing away compared to their home games. At home, they averaged 106.5 points, turning the ball over only six times per game and knocking down 46% of their threes. In Sheffield, however, it was 86 points per game with an average of 15.5 turnovers.
In games where the Sharks forced over 10 turnovers out of the Riders they beat them by a net score of four, but when Leicester kept the giveaways in single digits they won by an average of 21.
In contrast to Leicester’s varying performances at home compared to on the road, the Sharks found consistency in their output both home and away. However, their typically stalwart defence didn’t find the same success against the Riders as it did the rest of the League.
Their League-best defence made them the only team to hold their opponents to under 80 points per game over the season, but they failed to do so against Leicester in their four meetings. They had no answer for Teddy Allen, who averaged 29 points in his three games against the Sharks.
Sheffield did better their scoring average against the Riders over the series, putting up 86 points per game, but the numbers suggest that Leicester’s ability to take care of the ball will go a long way in deciding the outcome of the series.
Playoff History: Riders vs Sharks
Sheffield are a familiar foe in the Playoffs for Leicester. This matchups marks the 10th time in the last 23 seasons where the sides have met in the postseason, and the fourth time in the past 10 years.
The previous two postseason meetings have gone the Riders’ way, most recently last year where Leicester bested them 153-140 over a two-legged series.
2016 was the last time Sheffield beat the Riders in the Playoffs- Atiba Lyons’ men winning 84-77 in the Final.
The Riders have the advantage of unrivalled playoff-winning experience at the reins. Head Coach Rob Paternostro has won the competition five times, the second most of any coach in League history, and four of those wins have come since the Final was hosted at the O2 Arena.
Sharks’ Head Coach Atiba Lyons is no stranger to playoff success himself, winning in 2016 for the second time in the club’s history. It’s been first-round exits for Sheffield in the last two seasons, however, and they now look to avoid falling to Leicester in the postseason for the second straight year.
What they said
With the Championship season in their rear-view mirror, the Riders are looking forward to the chance to set the record straight after what they feel was a season with unmet potential.
Here’s what they had to say ahead of the opening round:
Teddy Allen
“You never want to go out on a down note in win-or-go-home scenarios,” said leading scorer Teddy Allen.
“We feel like we could have done a lot better throughout the year, and now is our chance to prove that. We are locked in as a unit, and it’s time for everyone to work towards a common goal.
“When asked about the Riders’ path to a potential Final at the O2 Arena, Allen expressed his confidence in the team to be able to beat anybody in front of them.
“Anybody can get it. Whoever is in our way, we feel confident that we can win.”
TJ Lall
“Our mentality has to change now,” added TJ Lall, when asked about the difference in approach between the Championship season and the Playoffs.
“We have to be more locked in and in-tune. We’ll see the Sharks multiple times, so we have to adjust and be ready for their adjustments.”
On a similar note to Allen, Lall looks forward to the chance of showing the League what this unit is capable of.
“Everyone here wants to win. We know we’re talented and have not shown our full potential, and were ready to show it during the playoffs. The pressure is good for us. We play better under pressure.”
Duke Shelton
American big Duke Shelton discussed the level of intensity required ahead of a postseason matchup.
“Everyone is going to step up and raise their level of play. It’s the playoffs, which is almost like a new season where anything can happen.
“It’s a new mindset now. I’m sure the rest of the team feel the same way, and that also goes for the other teams in the league. We’re ready to compete.
“The team that’s willing to give a little bit more, most of the time, will win. Basketball is a game where the team with the fewest mistakes has a huge edge, so we need to be focussed and ready to play our best ball.”
Rob Paternostro
Having reached the summit of British basketball five times before, Head Coach Rob Paternostro knows exactly what winning in the postseason requires.
He is as eager as ever to fight on the biggest stage, at the O2 Arena.
“Once you get to the playoffs there’s so much urgency because if you don’t play well you’re going home. Everyone wants to be at the O2 by the end, and we’ve been there nearly every year. It’s wonderful to be there, so that’s always the goal.
“At our best we feel like we’re a really good team, and we’re in good shape going into the playoffs.”
Tickets are on sale for our home fixture against the Sheffield Sharks!
Leicester Riders conclude their Women’s British Basketball League campaign against the Sheffield Hatters, in a game to decide third and fourth place in the Championship standings.
A win for the Riders will see them lock up third with a 16-4 record, but a loss would see the Hatters take the tiebreaker and third place at 15-5.
One to watch
Georgia Gayle
14.1 points, 4.1 assists, 3.9 rebounds
Hatters leading scorer and 2024 All Star Georgia Gayle is the number one scoring threat the Riders will need to key in on in this matchup.
The granddaughter of Betty Codona, the pioneer of women’s British basketball and founder of the Hatters, Gayle is a GB international and experienced professional.
This season, she leads the Hatters in scoring and assists, scoring in double-digits on 17 occasions and putting up 20 three times in 19 appearances.
Gayle put up 13/4/4 last time out against the Riders, shooting 6-12 from the field. Keeping her quiet for 40 minutes would go a long way towards slowing Sheffield’s side of the scoreboard down.
The numbers
These two teams have been some of the highest-powered offences in the League this season, ranking second and third in points per game.
The Hatters are one of two teams to score over 80 a night (82.7), and maximise their possessions by turning the ball over the least in the League. Meanwhile the Riders, who score 78.5 per game, are an efficient shooting group, connecting on a second-best 44% of their field goals.
The Riders have the game’s highest scorer in American rookie Taylor O’Brien, whose 15.7 points per game has earned her two Player of the Month awards over the course of the season.
Meanwhile the Hatters have seven scorers giving them over 7 points a night, their offence by committee giving the Riders issues last time the teams faced off.
Head-to-head
The Riders have faced the Hatters once before this season, falling 78-70 on the road.
Desiree Ramos impressed with her highest-scoring performance on the season, putting up 25 points in 22 minutes, going 9-12 from the field.
Turnovers were the difference in the game. Leicester lost the battle 25-11, and therefore lost a game in which they shot 43% from the field to Sheffield’s 36%.
Riders’ All Star pairing of Sam Ashby and O’Brien combined for 36 (18 points each) to lead the team’s effort.
But the loss means third place is up for grabs for the winner of this matchup.
Playoff tickets include entry for both men’s and women’s playoff games on May 4, and the first 1,200 people through the door will receive a free “Dark Horse” playoff t-shirt.
Season series: Leicester Riders vs Sheffield Sharks
Leicester Riders tip-off their 2024 British Basketball League Playoff campaign against the Sheffield Sharks on Sunday.
The sides have met on four occasions so far this season, the Riders winning the series 3-1.
Here’s how the games played out…
November 17 Game 1: Sharks 91-84 Riders
Sharks battle from the front to take hard-fought home win
Sheffield drew first blood in the series, winning a closely fought battle late on. The Sharks edged ahead in the second quarter, going into the half up 46-39, and the Riders, despite bringing the deficit to two on multiple occasions, couldn’t take the lead back.
The Sharks’ Devearl Ramsey led the game with 22 points, scoring five in the final 2:33 to lead the hosts down the stretch and secure the win. He was backed by 17 points from Jalon Pipkins who went 7-8 from the field in the game.
The Riders made a charge from down 10 to five with four minutes remaining, but couldn’t get it over the line. Miryne Thomas led the team with 21 points and 11 rebounds- his first double-double in Riders red.
A key difference in the game: three point shooting. The Riders went 5-21 while the Sharks shot 8-19, Ramsey leading the way with three makes from behind the arc.
But water found its level in game two from deep.
December 30 Game 2: Riders 103-75 Sharks
On-fire Riders torch Sharks from three
The Riders levelled the season series at home in convincing fashion to close out 2023. A 21-4 start blew the Sharks out of the water, and the Riders cruised home to a wire-to-wire win.
Miryne Thomas led the team out the gate with 10 points in five minutes, and logged another 20 point double-double against Sheffield with 22 points and 10 rebounds by the final buzzer.
But it was Teddy Allen, in his third game for the Riders, who led the game with 25 points. He went 4-9 from three on the game spearheading what was a red hot shooting night for the hosts.
In contrast to the first game against Sheffield in November, Leicester shot 51.9% from three point land in the blowout. It was the Sharks who went cold on this occasion, knocking down just 28.6% of their attempts from behind the arc.
Prentiss Nixon had an effective outing for the visitors, bagging 17 points in 22 minutes of play, going 6-12 from the field. But it was a drop in the water against a Riders torrent, and Leicester entered the new year on a high.
February 16 Game 3: Riders 108-94 Sharks
Allen explosion makes it two-for-two at home
Teddy Allen led the Riders for the second-straight game against the Sharks, this time going off for 35 points. It was a 35-12 double-double for Allen, shooting 50% from the field and 44% from three.
The Riders were trailing 53-57 at the break and down by as much as 12 points in the second quarter. But a 12 point third period from Allen led them back into the tie, and another 10 in the fourth got them over the line.
The scoreline was deceptive come the final buzzer, not reflecting what was a one possession affair with three minutes on the clock. Two straight buckets from TJ Lall gave the Riders separation, and they saw the tie out from there.
Malek Green, making his first appearance against the Riders this season, led the Sharks with 19 points and 11 rebounds. He scored two buckets to start the final period, but Leicester were able to stem his scoring down the stretch to see it out.
The game made it two wins at home for the Riders against Sheffield, giving them a 2-1 series lead with one game to play in South Yorkshire.
March 29 Game 4: Sharks 85-88 Riders
Riders survive Sharks surge in final seconds
The game to decide the season series was fought wire-to-wire, Leicester coming away three point victors after Sheffield battled to give themselves a chance as the clock expired.
Allen led Leicester in the first half with an emphatic performance, going off for 27 first half points, and finished with 29/8. But down the stretch, big buckets came from up and down the Riders’ roster.
Kimbal Mackenzie, Thomas, Duke Shelton and Lall all scored in the final four minutes, giving the Riders an eight point lead with 2:18 left. But a turn of events, including an unsportsmanlike foul called on Shelton, gave the Sharks a chance to tie.
Bennet Koch went one for two from the foul line after Shelton’s foul, and Ramsey drained a three with nine seconds left to make it a one point game.
Mackenzie was sent to the line, and coolly knocked down both, but Sheffield could send it to overtime with a three. The opportunity fell to RJ Eytle-Rock who fired from the right wing, as Allen closed out but was keen not to foul.
Eytle-Rock missed his attempt, and the rebound was pulled down by Thomas to close the season series.
Tickets on sale!
Tickets for our home game against the Sheffield Sharks on May 4 are on sale now!
Riders speak to BBC Radio Leicester ahead of the playoffs
BBC Radio Leicester stopped by to speak to the team for their weekly “Game Night” show.
Ahead of the upcoming British Basketball League Playoffs, Riders players and Head Coach Rob Paternostro reflected on the Championship season, and previewed the postseason.
Here’s what they had to say…
Teddy Allen
Riders leading scorer, Teddy Allen, has spent the final weeks of the season getting into playoff shape. Working through injuries intensely has led to the American being in the best health that he’s been in all season, right in time for the postseason.
“I have been dealing with some injuries, but I feel like I’ve got my body right and I’m ready to get to work in the playoffs,” said Allen.
“The last few weeks I’ve been working closely with our training staff to get my body right. This is the healthiest I have been since I got here in Leicester, and I’m ready to make a run.”
The Riders enter the playoffs as the fifth seed. Reflecting on the second half of the year, Allen expressed disappointment in how the games fell, but is looking at ways to rectify recent results with his own performances.
“I wish we could have got some more wins down the stretch. I have to look at myself first and think about what I could have done better to help our team win.
“If it’s points, rebounds, assists or defence, whatever the team needs me to do I just want to go out there and compete.
“Nobody wants to lose, but we all left everything out there on the court with our effort and that’s what we’ll continue to do.”
The playoffs represent a fresh start for the Riders, and Allen sees that as an opportunity to set right unmet potential from the Championship season.
“You never want to go out on a down note in win-or-go-home scenarios. We feel like we could have done a lot better throughout the year, and now is our chance to prove that.
“We are locked in as a unit, and it’s time for everyone to work towards a common goal. Anybody can get it. Whoever is in our way, we feel confident that we can win.”
TJ Lall
For the Riders’ end of season awards, TJ Lall was named the Defensive Player of the Year and Player’s Player to recognise his efforts.
Lall looked back on his performances, and how he grew into the season as it progressed:
“I feel like I’ve played my role all year. Whatever the team has needed I’ve been able to give. The second half was better than the first for me personally. Playing together more, we’ve been a more cohesive unit, which has helped my game.”
Despite a season filled with ups and downs, the Riders showed up with big wins in important spots all year.
A win-or-go-home victory in the Trophy against the Newcastle Eagles springs to mind, as well as wins against the Sheffield Sharks on the road and the Cheshire Phoenix at home down the stretch.
“We stepped up in some big games this season. But our mentality has to change now. We have to be more locked in and in tune. We’ll see the Sharks multiple times, so we have to adjust and be ready for their adjustments.”
On a similar note to Allen, Lall looks forward to the chance of showing the League what this unit is capable of.
“Everyone here wants to win. We know we’re talented and have not shown our full potential, and were ready to show it during the playoffs. The pressure is good for us. We play better under pressure.”
Duke Shelton
Duke Shelton, an American big who joined the Riders midseason, has stepped into the starting unit in recent weeks.
After an adjustment period where he looked to settle into the team, he feels comfortable in his role going into the playoffs.
“I’ve adapted really well and found my position within the team. I’ve enjoyed my time here so far.
“I feel like I’ve shown flashes of what I can do, but maybe not to my full potential yet. There’s been times where I’ve been consistent but I’m looking forward to what’s to come.
“Anytime you come into a new situation in the middle of the year it can be a little challenging finding your spot. Everyone is comfortable where they are and you don’t want to ruffle any feathers or step on toes. You want to come in, have good energy and try to help the team any way you can.”
Over the course of his nine-year professional career, Shelton has learned that postseason appearances are a valuable commodity, and is looking to make the most of his upcoming run.
“This is going to be my second time in the playoffs in my professional career. I’m looking forward to the atmosphere we’re going to be playing in. Everyone is going to step up and raise their level of play. It’s the playoffs, which is almost like a new season where anything can happen.”
And with the new season comes a new mentality, where the urgency is ramped up and everything is on the line. Shelton understands as much, and the team is ready to go.
“It’s a new mindset now. I’m sure the rest of the team feel the same way, and that also goes for the other teams in the league. We’re ready to compete.
“The team that’s willing to give a little bit more, most of the time, will win. Basketball is a game where the team with the fewest mistakes has a huge edge, so we need to be focussed and ready to play our best ball.”
Rob Paternostro
Five-time British Basketball League Playoff champion, Rob Paternostro, understands more than anybody what it takes to lift the silverware at the O2 Arena.
Since the Playoff Final has been played at the O2, the Riders have been there every year bar one, and Paternostro is keen to continue that trend.
“Once you get to the playoffs there’s so much urgency because if you don’t play well you’re going home. Everyone wants to be at the O2 by the end, and we’ve been there nearly every year. It’s wonderful to be there, so that’s always the goal.”
As was the case for most teams in the League, the gauntlet of the British Basketball League schedule saw ups and downs throughout the season.
But now that the dust has settled, Paternostro feels the team is in a good position to go on a postseason run.
“We had a tough last couple of games, but we’ve been similar to most teams this year on our ups and downs. It’s been a real grind.
“The changes to our roster had a positive impact for us midway through the season. Of course, injuries hurt us in the second half of the year with Jaren and TJ especially late, but at our best we feel like we’re a really good team, and we’re in good shape going into the playoffs.”
Tickets are on sale for the Riders’ round one home game against the Sheffield Sharks on May 4.
Tickets are 20% off until 11:59 pm on Wednesday, May 24. Get yours here!
Trophy semi-final second leg preview: Riders vs Eagles
The 2024 British Basketball League Playoffs will feature a new format, with the first two rounds taking place over a three game series.
The top four in the Championship standings have home court advantage in the opening round, playing two of the potential three games at home.
Those sides have the choice of the structure of those series, opting for game one or two to be their opening home fixture.
Here’s how the postseason is set to unfold for the Riders…
Riders’ Round One
The Riders secured the fifth seed in the British Basketball League Championship, and will face Sheffield Sharks in round one.
They will open the series on the road on April 28 at 4 pm, host game two on May 4 at 6:45 pm, and if necessary, play a deciding game three in Sheffield on Sunday May 5 at 3 pm.
Tickets are on sale for game two at 5 pm, and thanks to the generosity of the Riders’ sponsorsat RDL Technologies, Vertu Motors, Torr Waterfield, Jelson Homes and EverythingBranded, the first1200 fans at the Arena for our home game on May 4 will receive a free Dark Horse Riders T-Shirt.
If you are travelling to game one in Sheffield and want a Dark Horse T-shirt, you can contact [email protected] to arrange.
Playoff Bracket
After round one has concluded, the seeding will be restructured so the highest remaining seed will play the lowest.
Therefore, the only scenario where the Riders would have home court advantage in the second round would be if two or more of the higher seeds lost in the opening round.
If one or none of the top seeded teams lose, the Riders will host only one game of the second round series.
The Final
As was the case in previous seasons, the Playoff Final will be a single game to decide the 2024 Playoff champions.
Both Men’s and Women’s Finals will be played at the O2 Arena on Sunday May 19.
You can purchase tickets here, but if the Riders should make the Final at the O2, Leicester Riders will release ticket allocation for the Riders section of the Arena.
Trophy semi-final second leg preview: Riders vs Eagles
Leicester Riders play their men and women’s 2024 playoff home openers on Saturday, May 4.
Our men’s home game has been confirmed to be played at 6:45 pm, and will be preceded by our women’s playoff fixture at 2:45 pm.
Tickets will be released on general sale from tomorrow (April 23) at 5pm.
Leicester Riders season ticket holders will receive priority for their usual seats until Friday, April 26, at 11:59 pm.
Tickets include entry to both men’s and women’s quarter-final playoff games.
Thanks to the generosity of the Riders’ sponsors at RDL Technologies, Vertu Motors, Torr Waterfield, Jelson Homes and EverythingBranded, the first 1,200 fans at the Arena will receive a free Dark Horse Riders T-Shirt.
Doors will open at the Arena before our women’s game, at 2:15 pm.
Trophy semi-final second leg preview: Riders vs Eagles
Leicester Riders launch Dark Horse campaign for the 2024 British Basketball League Playoffs
Leicester Riders basketball club are excited to launch their Dark Horse campaign for the upcoming 2024 British Basketball League Playoffs.
The Riders enter the postseason as the fifth seed, and look to start their run to the Finals at the O2 Arena, which take place on Sunday 19 May 2024.
Despite a League campaign which hasn’t reached the heights of previous years in Leicester, the Riders are a team that no team wants to face in the postseason, and is capable of knocking off any team in British basketball.
No matter the opponent, seeding, time or place, the Dark Horse is a team that can bounce with the best the British Basketball League has to offer.
The goal, like any season, is to stand under the confetti at the O2 Arena, lifting the silverware. The six time Playoff champions aim to bring what would be their 20th British Basketball League silverware back to the East Midlands.
The all new Playoff format features best of three series in the first two rounds, before the Final in the O2 Arena, London.
The Riders will open the playoffs in Sheffield against the Sharks at 4 pm.Game two of the first round will be played at Mattioli Arena on May 4 at 6pm. If necessary, game three will be played in Sheffield on a yet to be confirmed date.
Leicester Riders Managing Directors Russell Levenston commented: “We’re excited to launch our Dark Horse campaign ahead of the upcoming playoffs.
“The postseason represents a fresh campaign and we’re looking forward to getting started. As a club, we always feel confident in our ability to win every competition we enter, and these playoffs are no different.
“Thank you to all of our fans for their incredible support this season. We’ll give it everything we’ve got to give you another trip to the O2 Arena!”
Tickets for the Riders first round home fixture will be on sale shortly! Stay tuned for ticket information.
Thanks to the generosity of the Riders’ sponsorsat RDL Technologies, Vertu Motors, Torr Waterfield, Jelson Homes and EverythingBranded, the first1200 fans at the Arena for our home game on May 4 will receive a free Dark Horse Riders T-Shirt.
Report: Riders finish Championship season with a win in Surrey
Leicester Riders concluded their British Basketball League Championship season with an 94-88 road win against the Surrey Scorchers.
Teddy Allen led the game with a red hot 30 point performance, going 11-22 from the field. Allen was cooking from deep, going 6-11 from behind the line, and draining back-to-back triples from deep three point range to get the Riders out of a deficit in the second quarter.
But it was Sesan Russell who got Leicester over the line, logging a season-high 20 points with 17 in the second half. His free throws sealed the game late, capping off an impressive display.
The win sees the Riders lock up the fifth seed for the postseason, ensuring they will face the Sheffield Sharks in the opening round of the Playoffs.
Scorchers survive sharpshooting Allen
Allen wasted no time in taking it to the Scorchers. A four point play, drawing contact from Abdul Mohamed, gave him 9 points in three minutes as the Riders took an 8-12 lead. He was into double figures quickly after with his third three of the game.
The highlights kept coming in a high-scoring first quarter. Next it was Jaren Holmes on the break, throwing it up for Miryne Thomas who threw it down with authority.
Despite the big plays, they couldn’t shake the hosts who had a hot hand of their own: Quin Cooper. He drained three triples early in a back-and-forth start. He stayed hot in the second, hitting from the corner to make it 27-28 with 11 minutes played.
Scorchers take initiative
An 8-0 Surrey run, highlighted by a breakaway jam from Tayo Ogendengbe, gave them their first separation of the afternoon.
The Riders responded with an and-one at the hoop from Russell, before Thomas connected on a tough fadeaway on the buzzer for his 12th points.
But a corner three from Mohamed took momentum back, and Cameron Copeland made a layup inside to give the hosts a nine point lead. He then went back up the floor and nailed a contested triple over Holmes, making it a double-digit advantage.
Teddy takeover
The Riders, whose high-level scoring to start the game cooled off in the Scorchers run, re-found their rhythm through Allen, who took over once again.
He drove to the rim for two, then drew contact for an and-one to pull the deficit down to eight. Testing his range, Allen went back-to-back from deep emphatically, pulling up from the car park and finding nothing but string.
He cut the game to a single possession as the half came to a close, but Dijiani Parkinson ended the quarter from three to make it 54-48 going into the locker rooms.
On fire out of the half
12 points in two and a half minutes gave the Riders the lead quickly after halftime. Allen got them going by driving inside and dishing to Russell, Thomas followed with an and-one play (his sixth make in as many shots), and Russell then tied the game at 56.
After a Cooper miss, Allen pulled up from the elbow and found the bottom of the bucket to force a Surrey timeout. He then made his tally 27 with a steal and score after the break.
Gooden stopped the Riders’ run with a three, but Leicester were back in it.
Riders win out in the clutch
With Russell shouldering the scoring load with buckets to end the third, Blake Bowman gave the Riders a four point lead with one to play, finishing on the fastbreak, plus the foul.
Leicester started fourth on a run to make it a seven point advantage, Russell staying hot to snatch the ball from Cooper and add another two to his now 13 point tally.
Surrey came storming back after stemming the Leicester momentum, however, and Mohamed’s three cut it to a one possession game with 4:52 left.
The Riders seized control, building off the interior defence of Sam Idowu. He sent away Gooden’s attempted layup, and on the other end Russell and Allen hit threes to put Leicester up nine.
Mohamed made an and-one to breathe life into the Surrey cause, but Holmes hit back with a finish inside.
Copeland had a chance to cut the game to four, but dribbled off his knee, and Russell sank his foul shots next time up for his 20th points, sealing the win.
A series with the Sharks
Game one against the Sheffield Sharks will take place on Sunday April 28 at 4 pm, and will be played at the Canon Medical Arena.
Game two, at the Mattioli Arena, will be played at 6 pm on May 4.
Stay tuned for information on game three, if necessary.
Trophy semi-final second leg preview: Riders vs Eagles
How things stand in the Women’s British Basketball League Championship
The postseason is fast approaching for Leicester Riders in a tightly packed Women’s British Basketball League Championship.
The Riders have two pivotal games remaining in their League season, which could see them land in second, third or fourth in the standings.
Here’s how things are shaping up for the Riders ahead of their final two games…
The state of play
The Riders currently sit third in the standings with a 15-3 record, tied with the Caledonia Gladiators and a win behind the undefeated London Lions, who have two games in hand.
The Riders are battling for seeding with the Gladiators and the Sheffield Hatters in fourth, who are their two remaining fixtures.
Sunday’s game against the Gladiators will decide the tiebreaker between the sides, which may prove vital come season’s end. Leicester currently possess it with a four point win against the Scots last week, so a win against Caledonia would lock up the two seed for the Riders.
A loss however, would risk the potential of Leicester falling to the four seed, with a showdown against the Hatters awaiting. Sheffield is a win behind the Riders with the tiebreaker, so the winner of that matchup would take the three seed for the postseason.
Riders’ recent form
Leicester enter this game having won nine of their last 10 games in the Women’s British Basketball League Championship.
They have responded to their only hiccup, a road loss to the Hatters, with three straight wins, including an important victory against the Gladiators in the clutch last time out.
The Riders have beaten the Essex Rebels, who knocked them out of the Trophy in January, the Newcastle Eagles twice and the Gladiators on their recent run, coming out on top against the better teams in the Championship.
The win against the Gladiators made a statement to the League as they approach the 2024 Playoffs.
The numbers
The Riders have established themselves as one of the elite offensive threats in British basketball, putting up the second most points in the League this season with 75.9 per game.
They have done so with efficiency inside, knocking down 49% of their two point looks, led by Rayevn Peeples who is connecting on 65% of her shots in close.
Peeples has been pivotal for the Riders establishing themselves on the glass this year. She ranks first among all players in offensive rebounds, and second in total rebounds per game, while sending away an average of 1.1 blocks, third best in the League.
Defensively, led once again by Peeples, the Riders average the most blocks of any team with 4.3 per game. Katie Janusewska has been key to this from the wing, putting up 0.8 blocks per game.
But the leading scorer of the Riders’ high-powered offence is Taylor O’Brien. The two-time Player of the Month has put up 15.7 points per game in her rookie season. She comes off the back of scoring 13 of the team’s 59n points against the Gladiators, and will look to lead the Riders to a crucial road win in Caledonia.
Supporter information: Loughborough University fireworks display
Leicester Riders are set to take on Surrey Scorchers on the road in their final game of the 2023-24 British Basketball League Championship.
Here’s some of the key head-to-heads in tomorrow’s action…
Saiquan Jamison vs Duke Shelton
Making a forceful impact in the paint this season for the Scorchers is Saiquan Jamison, who has established himself as one of British basketball’s elite big men.
He ranks second among all players in rebounds per game with 9.9, and has logged 13 double-doubles over the course of the season.
Jamison is a weapon in the pick and roll, and is near unstoppable when he receive the ball in motion to the rim. He finishes explosively in close, but can also take defenders off the dribble from the centre position to drive inside, and keep defenders honest from distance with his shooting ability.
Jamison is Surrey’s third leading scorer with 10.5 points per game to his name, and is able to generate his own offence at the rim by consistently pulling down missed shots for offensive rebounds.
Looking to keep him off the glass is Riders centre Duke Shelton. Shelton has stepped into a starting role seamlessly in recent weeks, proving energy and hustle from the centre position.
Three double digit performances in his last five outings has seen the 6’10” American become a reliable source of points, and his 14 points, 16 rebounds double double against the Plymouth City Patriots in late March showed his ability to get on the glass for big numbers.
The Riders will need a similar night on the boards from Shelton against the electric Jamison to control the paint in the final game of the Championship season.
Cameron Gooden vs Jaren Holmes
The Scorchers leading scorer this season, high-flying guard Padiet Wang, is set to miss tomorrow’s game through injury. Therefore, they will once again rely on the services of rookie Cameron Gooden, who went off for Surrey last time out.
The American led his team with 21 points and 5 assists against the League champions, going 5-13 from three as he tried to shoot his team back into the game.
Gooden is averaging 9.4 points in 20 minutes per game, but thrived in an increased role against the Lions.
The shifty guard has elite handles to beat defenders off the dribble, getting to the hole or stepping back and taking midrange jump shots consistently.
Looking to slow down Gooden will be rookie guardJaren Holmes, who is lighting up the League in his first professional season.
Holmes is the Riders’ second leading scorer this season with 13.2 points per game, and leads the team in steals with an average of 1.2.
He led the Riders last time out against the Giants with 20 points, his late three point shooting giving Leicester a chance late.
His work on the defensive end has impressed throughout the year, and he will be faced with the challenge of Gooden in the backcourt in this one. But Holmes’ ability to lock down opponents on defence will put him in good stead to stay in front of his opponent one-on-one.
He has the size to contest Gooden inside when he drives to the hoop, and the offensive skillset to keep him honest on the defensive side of the ball whenever he is in the game. Get ready for a hard-fought head-to-head in this one.
Justin Robinson vs Sesan Russell
To overcome the Scorchers, the Riders will have to contend with a two-time British Basketball League MVP in Justin Robinson from the backcourt.
Robinson won the award back-to-back in 2018 and 2019 for the London Lions, averaging 19.2 points per game in his second MVP season to earn the award.
This year, Robinson has provided valuable experience to the Scorchers roster while putting up 10.8 points per game and shooting 39% from behind the three point arc. He has been a consistent threat from deep over the court of his 12-year professional career, and now is no different.
Faced with the tall task of slowing the experience veteran down is Sesan Russell, who made his first start from the point last time out against the Giants.
Russell’s playmaking has been a key asset for the Riders in recent weeks, and it was no different after his insertion into the starting line-up. He put up 10 points and 6 assists, leading the team through the opening stages of the game.
Two games ago, Russell once again pulled the strings to dish 9 assists against the Bristol Flyers. His court vision has found open cutters to the rim consistently, as he runs the pick and roll from the point effectively with the Riders big men.
Keeping Robinson active in defending the pick-and-roll will go a long way in making his life difficult in the Riders’ last game of the Championship season.
Trophy semi-final second leg preview: Riders vs Eagles
Leicester Riders fell to the Manchester Giants 89-94 in their final home game of the British Basketball League Championship season.
After a quick start, Evan Walshe scored 10 straight in the second quarter to lead the Giants a double-digit lead. The Riders made a run late in the game led by Jaren Holmes, but it wasn’t enough to complete a comeback.
Holmes led the Riders with 20 points, going 8-13 from the field, 3-7 from three and grabbing 6 rebounds. He was backed by Teddy Allen’s 19 and Miryne Thomas’ 18.
But leading the game was Walshe for Manchester with 24, sinking the late free throws to end the game.
Early Leicester lead
Thomas got the action underway in style for the Riders emphatically. The lane opened up for him after Mason Bourcier fell in the paint, and Thomas needed little invitation to drive to the hoop and throw down a two handed jam.
Neither side found an edge in the first five, however. Allen and Russell stringed back-to-back threes, but they were offset by Bouricer and Lee from deep as the sides stayed locked.
But out of the media timeout, the Riders found some separation. Allen got to work to snatch momentum, dancing behind the arc before pulling up for a deep three. Next up, he went to the hole on the drive for a two to put the Riders up 26-16.
Giants battle back
Manchester fought back into the game in response, taking the lead early in the second quarter. Former Rider Walshe logged 10 points in as many minutes off the bench to lead the visitors to a 30-28 advantage.
He scored 10 straight to take momentum back, and was followed by Jalen Harris and Callum Jones who connected from within the arc in the midst of the Manchester run.
Russell stopped the run with an and-one, driving to his right and drawing a foul on Harris for three points the old fashioned way. But the Giants led 38-32 by the media timeout.
The Riders mustered just 12 points in the second quarter, unable to take the lead back. Bourcier scored 5 points to end the half, and the sides went into the locker rooms with the score 38-49 in the Giants’ favour.
All even in the third
Nicholas Lewis found his rhythm in the third, hitting a tough fadeaway and a contested three back-to-back to grow the Manchester lead to 15.
But in response to Lewis, Holmes got his head down to get two on the board at the hoop, before Allen connected from three to peg the deficit to 10, and force a Giants timeout.
Homes drew an offensive foul out of the timeout, before Thomas hit from deep- the Riders recapturing their early form.
Lewis responded to take back the big lead with back-to-back threes, but next time up, Holmes made a four point play by connecting on a three through contact, keeping the Giants within touching distance.
But the score remained there until the fourth, Manchester leading 63-74 with one to play.
Giants respond to Riders run
Holmes sparked life into the team to start the final period, driving to the hoop to get it underway, then throwing a lob to Shelton who threw it down two-handed.
The quick scoring brought it to a five point difference quickly in the final period, as TJ Lall added three more points from the foul line.
But Walshe rebuilt the Manchester lead with a three from the corner and a layup inside, taking away the Riders work to start the quarter.
It was 72-81 by the media timeout, with 4:49 left to play.
Riders give themselves a chance late
A barrage of threes went down for the Riders to give them a late chance. Thomas connected first, before finishing off a fastbreak from a Russell three, then Holmes and Allen caught fire.
The Giants kept their side of the scoreboard ticking, Walshe, Lewis and Nick Stampley combining for seven points, but Holmes fired away from the corner with 52 seconds left to make it a three point game.
The Riders got their stops, Walshe then Stampley missing, but the Giants crashed the offensive boards, getting three possessions and forcing Leicester to foul. Walshe made both from the line to make it a five point difference.
Thomas couldn’t hit from three in response, and the Giants dribbled the game out.
Riders return to action on Sunday, hitting the road to take on the Surrey Scorchers. A win will see them lock up home court advantage for the 2024 postseason.
Stay tuned for playoff ticket information.
Trophy semi-final second leg preview: Riders vs Eagles
The Riders take on the Manchester Giants in their final home game of the 2023-24 British Basketball League season.
It’s an important weekend of action for the Riders in their final two games of the Championship, needing two wins to secure home court advantage for the postseason.
Here are the key matchups as the Riders take on the Giants…
Nicholas Lewis vs Kimbal Mackenzie
The Riders will need to zero in on their opponent’s leading scorer this season, Nicholas Lewis. Lewis is putting up 14.9 points per game this season, 11th among all players, and comes into this one on good form.
He has three 25+ scoring games in his last 10 appearances, his best outing being a 27 points, 7 assists and 4 steals game against the Cheshire Phoenix. Lewis played all 40 minutes for the third time this season in the game, putting a high workload on his back to carry the scoring effort.
The American is a shifty guard who makes his money driving inside, and can step back and take consistent twos from the midrange, finish at the hoop, or kick to teammates for open looks after the defence collapses.
Lewis leads his team in assists with 4.5 per game, pulling the string while leading the scoring for the Giants.
Looking to go back and forth with Lewis is Riders captain Kimbal Mackenzie, who is enjoying the best statistical season of his career. The Canadian is averaging a career high 13.2 points and 5 assists per game, and has led the team through the biggest moments of the season with his clutch play.
He made a go-ahead and-one in the Trophy final four with seconds left, and took over late to see the Riders past the Caledonia Gladiators on the road. In the absence of Jaren Holmes and Teddy Allen, he played 45 minutes in a double overtime win against Plymouth City Patriots and hit the game-tying shot to send it to overtime.
Mackenzie can match Lewis’ scoring and playmaking, making the head-to-head at the point guard position an interesting proposition going into the game with the Riders’ captain facing up against the Giants’ leading bucket getter.
William Lee vs Miryne Thomas
High-flyer and former Riders William Lee patrols the sky for the Manchester Giants, making huge plays on both ends around the rim.
The “Alabama slammer” is playing in his second season in Manchester having won the League in Leicester in 2021.
Lee is best known for his aerial ability. The human highlight reel throws down monster jams and swats away shots emphatically on a game to game basis. But Lee has a versatile game, and can knock down shots anywhere on the court.
He’s scoring 13.4 points per game, and pulling down the third most rebounds of any player with an average of 8.3. From outside, the 6’9” forward is shooting 38.5% from three, the second best on his team.
Meeting him in the frontcourt will be Riders forwardMiryne Thomas, who has composed an electric highlight reel of his own in his rookie season.
Putting up 12.4 points and 6.1 rebounds, the Cleveland native has come up huge for the Riders this season to lead the team to wins. He has scored double digit points in six of the last eight League games, including a 21 point and 15 rebound double double against the Newcastle Eagles.
Thomas is always a threat above the rim, but defenders, like Lee, need to respect the three where he can get hot on any given night. Last month against the Patriots, Thomas went 4-5 from three on his way to 19 points in 22 minutes, demonstrating his threat from anywhere on the court.
The frontcourt matchup between the two athletic fours is sure to get fans out of their seats.
Evan Walshe vs Jaren Holmes
Another former Riders, Evan Walshe, is enjoying his best statistical season of his professional career in his first season with the Manchester Giants.
The Brit, who suited up in Riders red between 2021 and 2023, is putting up 11 points per game with the Giants this season.
Walshe caught the attention of the League from the off this year by putting up 16.5 points per game in his opening two fixtures. He has taken over games for the Giants with seven 20 point performances to his name.
The 6’4” wing is aggressive on offence. He’s quick to get his head down and drive to the hole, but has shown his ability to step outside and knock down shots to keep defenders honest, going four for five from three against the Plymouth City Patriots earlier in the month.
Walshe’s real threat comes in transition, however, where his speed and aggression takes him coast to coast consistently for scores on the fastbreak. He shares this in common with Riders’ guard Jaren Holmes, who made his return from injury last time out.
Holmes was an All-Star in his rookie season after graduating from Iowa State University. He has lit up the league with his energy and effort this season, and is the Riders’ second leading scorer on the season.
Call his name🤙
Jaren is ready to light up the Copper Box for Sunday's @britishbasketm All-Star game 🔥
Michigan-born Holmes is averaging 13.4 points per game this season, and his 1.3 steals per game has led to a multitude of fastbreak opportunities where he is extremely effective. His speed is transition and vision when driving at pace makes him a dual threat to score and pass, in the half court and on the break.
The fastbreak battle between Holmes and Walshe will be fought at an electric pace, and paired with the highlight plays from Thomas and Lee, expect a flurry of highlights from the Riders final home game of the Championship season.
Trophy semi-final second leg preview: Riders vs Eagles
Key Storylines: The final weekend of Championship action
Leicester Riders are fast approaching their final weekend in the 2023-24 British Basketball League Championship.
They face pivotal fixtures in determining their seeding for the postseason, with home court advantage hanging in the balance.
Here are the key storylines for the Riders going into their final two games…
Home court in our hands
The Riders hold pole position for home court advantage in the postseason with two games to go. Wins against the Manchester Giants and Surrey Scorchers would secure fourth place, as the Riders possess the tiebreaker against the Newcastle Eagles and Sheffield Sharks.
This scenario would see Leicester finish the season in fourth with a 19-17 record, and could potentially see all three contenders for home court advantage finish on the same number of wins.
The Sharks hold the season series against the Eagles, meaning if all three teams win out it would be Riders vs Sharks in round one of the 2024 Playoffs.
But above anything, the Riders need to handle business in their final two games, and secure home court with two momentous wins.
Riders look to build late form
Wins are not a given for the Riders in the two games, who enter this weekend having lost two on the bounce.
The first was a 91-96 loss to the Eagles in a game where Leicester could have essentially locked up home court after beating the Sharks two games prior. The narrow loss, however, did mean Leicester secured the tiebreaker against their North Eastern rivals.
Most recently, the Riders fell to the Bristol Flyers 77-89, a big result for Bristol in their mission to secure the seventh seed.
After a weekend off, and a chance to recover, the Riders will look to lock in, bounce back and build their form going into the postseason.
Healthy Holmes
The week away from action was significant for the Riders, who can heal any bumps and bruises and get fresh ahead of an important Playoff campaign.
Head Coach Rob Paternostro echoed that sentiment while looking to the remaining two games of the Championship season.
“These last couple of weeks are really significant,” he commented. “We want to make sure we’re healthy, and that we understand what our strengths are going into the playoffs. When we have everyone available we have a lot of weapons that can cause huge problems.”
Jaren Holmes, in particular, will benefit from the added recovery time, having spent a number of weeks away from action through injury.
He returned to the roster in limited minutes last time out, and will look to build back into game shape in the final two games before attacking his first postseason campaign of his professional career.
Having Holmes back is a major boost, and Leicester will look to maintain a healthy roster in their final two fixtures.
“In any sport, the healthiest do well in the postseason,” added Paternsotro. “We’re happy to be able to spend some time recovering.”
The last few tickets remain for our final home game of the Championship season against Manchester Giants.
Leicester Riders are thrilled to be working with LivingWell Health ClubsLeicester as its official health club provider.
LivingWell Health Club prides themself on being Leicester’s friendliest health club, providing a welcoming and comfortable location to both exercise and relax.
They offer a range of facilities including a swimming pool, spa pool, sauna, steam room, air conditioned gymnasium, pro-shop and relaxation area.
Sam Ford, Health Club Manager at LivingWell Leicester, commented:
“LivingWell Leicester are delighted to be working in partnership with Leicester Riders basketball as their official health club provider, which brings together the power of fitness and athleticism to promote a healthy lifestyle and community engagement.
“We very much look forward to welcoming both the Men’s and Women’s first teams into the club, and building further relations within the community.”
Interested in joining the Riders family? For more information read our corporate brochure here.
Trophy semi-final second leg preview: Riders vs Eagles
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