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 take third 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!
Season series: Leicester Riders vs Sheffield Sharks
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.
Season series: Leicester Riders vs Sheffield Sharks
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.
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.
Season series: Leicester Riders vs Sheffield Sharks
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.
Season series: Leicester Riders vs Sheffield Sharks
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.
Season series: Leicester Riders vs Sheffield Sharks
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.
The Riders took the win in their final pre-season game, beating USA Select 105-62 in their return to the Morningside Arena Leicester.
Here’s what the team had to say after the game.
Rob Paternostro
“I loved the way we jumped on them early. We moved the ball well, defensively, we were in gaps, and we had a huge lead. Once we were up big, the game was played a little differently.
“Our conditioning needs to get better. because I thought at the end we were a little gassed. But all in all, we were good.”
Coach Rob was cautious with Xavier Pinson to start pre-season as he recovered from an injury sustained in the CEBL over the summer, but he made his return to the court last night.
“I liked Xavier out there. He’s a natural point guard and he’s so slick with his dribble. His head is always up because he’s such a good ball-handler who doesn’t need to look at the ball. He can get in gaps and make plays, and tonight he did that.”
“The injuries hurt us at the start of pre-season. Losing Xavier and Caleb hurt us because we haven’t got a good look at who we are with a full roster.
“But overall, I like our depth. It’s been great having Mo and Conner back out there, and I also thought Blake has been great this pre-season. He’s been playing consistently well. We’ve got a lot of good guys, and come Friday, we’ll be able to utilise them.
“We’re happy to be home, and we’re looking forward to having a good crowd for our season opener. It’s always exciting on opening night.”
Blake Bowman
Young star Blake Bowman has impressed in his second Riders pre-season, scoring in double-digits in every game.
“I’m feeling great. It’s a good opportunity to get out there and put on a show for the fans. I’ve been working on the three-point shot, and my dribble pull-up to add some range to my game.”
“As long as Coach Rob trusts me, I’m going to be out on the floor. I just need to make winning plays to force him to keep me out there.”
Bowman was perfect from the field in the game, going 7-7 and 1-1 from three.
Xavier Pinson
Upon his return to court, Xavier Pinson impressed. He had 12 points, three rebounds and three assists in 19 minutes of action.
“It was great to be out there with my teammates. I thought we controlled the pace better than we had throughout the pre-season, and we were sharper as a team. For the most part, I was just happy to be on the court.
“I know the level of competition is set to increase, but after the game, I feel like I’m in great shape. I’m ready to show the fans what we can do.
“I feel like we learned a lot about each other, and what Coach Rob wants from us as a team. It’s a great starting point for us to build going towards the season.”
Miryne Thomas
Miryne Thomas once again showed his scoring ability against USA Select, leading the Riders with 19 points and seven rebounds despite only playing 19 minutes.
After picking up fouls battling inside, Thomas says his biggest focus is staying on the court.
“The biggest thing for me is to play without fouling. I got into foul trouble tonight, so I couldn’t play for long stretches.
“I’m in good shape and feel like I can play hard for 40 minutes, so I want to be in a position where I can play big minutes.”
In his first game in front of the Riders’ home crowd, Thomas fed off the energy.
“I loved the energy here at the Morningside Arena. I liked how the fans reacted to everything we did out there, and after the game, they stayed to give us love.”
Also making a return to action this pre-season was American/British big Sam Idowu, who sat out the previous season.
“I had a lot of fun tonight, and it was great to meet all the fans. It’s nice being on the court again because it’s been a long year and some change sitting out.”
“I feel good. I’m in the best shape I’ve been in a long time. The preparation going into the season has been good, and I’ve played consistent minutes.
“Now I’m impatiently waiting for the season to start. I can’t wait to get going!”
Loughborough basketball is excited to welcome 6’10” forward Sam Keita for the 2023/24 season.
The 23-year-old played in the BBL for the Plymouth City Patriots last season, playing seven minutes per game and featuring on 34 occasions.
Kieta spent his final college season in the NCAA D1, playing for North Carolina Central.
He will accompany his play in the NBL D1 with his studies in Sustainable Engineering at the University.
Kieta commented: “I’m excited to get on board with the programme. I can’t wait to get the ball rolling, and succeed on and off the court.”
Head Coach Will Maynard added: “Sam is a big body for us and definitely adds to our front line. He has had plenty of experiences that will help him at the D1 level.
“He adds both a scoring threat inside and good rim protection, so he will certainly help us on both ends of the floor. We are excited to have him over the next couple of years and are looking forward to seeing him contribute to the team both in BUCS and D1.”
"The whole experience has been surreal!"- Seth Wylie on playing with the pros
Leicester Riders are thrilled to have agreed terms with American point guard Carrington Love.
The 29-year-old averaged 16.6 points and 5.8 assists last season in the German division two, playing for Eisbären Bremerhaven. He shot 47.4% from the field and 36.1% from three, finishing the year with a 16-13 record.
Love is a Green Bay graduate, having spent four years with the Phoenix between 2012 and 2016. He showed improvement every year, scoring a team-high 17.3 points per game as a senior.
In his senior year, he ranked third in NCAA in steals with 2.57 per game, setting a programme record with 95 steals in a season.
Since then, Love has taken his talents to Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium before landing in Leicester. He also has experience on the European stage, putting up 10 points per game in the Europe Cup for Donar Groningen in 2019.
Love’s ties to Leicester makes him a seamless fit to the roster.
“I’m excited to join the Riders! I’ve only heard great things about the city, the coach, the players and the club!” commented Love.
“Knowing Jubril and Darien prior to my arrival has already made me comfortable with the team, and it’s a major plus having former Rider Justin Hedley and my godson Will nearby!
“I’m just excited to get on the floor with the guys and try to win as many games as possible!”
The Milwaukee native is a confident three-point shooter, able to knock down deep shots off the dribble, and with a defender in his face. He can take defenders off the dribble to attack the hoop, where he finds open teammates effectively or finish himself.
“We’re excited to get a player like Carrington at this stage of the season,” said head coach Rob Paternostro.
“He is a multi-year European professional, who has played very well throughout his career
“Carrington is a player who can play both guard positions, and has shown the ability to score and play make from many different spots on the floor.”
Love has signed for the remainder of the season. Riders can confirm we have been granted special dispensation from the league, following the injury to Devonte Bandoo, to enable Love to suit up for Sunday’s BBL Cup Final!
Welcome to Leicester Carrington!
Season series: Leicester Riders vs Sheffield Sharks
Leicester Riders are delighted to have signed young British talent Victor Ndoukou on his first professional contract.
The young forward has signed a 4 and a half year deal which will see him as part of the BBL team through to the end of the 2026-27 season. Ndoukou will also be studying a Loughborough University on a scholarship through the Loughborough College Elite pathway with the Riders, and will be eligible to suit-up for the D1 roster and BBL.
“We really enjoyed working with Victor while he was at Charnwood College over the last few seasons,” commented Head Coach Rob Paternostro.
“He is a player with good size and skill who has a lot of potential.”
“The partnership with Loughborough University and Loughborough College has been invaluable and very influential in developing our young British players over the years .”
Ndoukou will be a familiar face to Riders fans as he first joined our pathway in 2019.
“I feel grateful to be given the opportunity to play for the Riders,” reflected Ndoukou. “I am very thankful for the opportunity the Riders pathway gave me and for the support from Loughborough University & Loughborough College. I really can’t wait to get my professional career started.”
The 19-year-old is a 6’7″ athletic wing, who averaged 15.5 points per game for Charnwood College in the 2021/22 season. He is widely regarded as the best British talent of his age, winning the MVP award in the EABL final last year.
Season series: Leicester Riders vs Sheffield Sharks
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