Author: Riders Media

While the Riders are in Basketball Champions League action this Wednesday the domestic league gets underway this Friday.

To celebrate the talent, culture and excitement around the league, the BBL and clubs have launched the “Know Our Name” campaign to ignite fans’ passion ahead of the start of the new season.

After an incredible 21/22 season which saw domestic attendance records broken, the BBL are looking to continue the momentum by launching the beginning of another year of exhilarating basketball action.

With players from across the league striving to be hero figures both on the court and in their local communities, fans are set to support their sides up and down the country, as they strive for glory when the season comes to it’s traditional thrilling end at the play-off finals at London’s 02 Arena on Sunday May 14th 2023.

With new signings making the move to the UK from Europe, American and fellow league rivals, the BBL and there is set to be some passionate and fiery match-ups throughout the season.

The BBL is one of the most culturally diverse league’s in the world, with 70% of its players hailing from BAME backgrounds (*Source: Sport England). Whilst the passion shines through on the court, the respect for the talent on show each week is clear to see from players, fans and coaches alike.

Ahead of the new season, Riders Managing Director Russell Levenston gave his hopes for the new season ahead:

“After returning the majority of our treble-winning roster, this season we have the added challenge of the Champions League Qualifiers. We feel that we’ve pulled together a roster to compete on all fronts with a sustainable approach that has brought us great success over the last 10 years.”

All Riders games throughout the season are available via the BBL’s YouTube channel, Sky Sports and the BBL player, so you won’t miss a minute of the action.

Leicester Riders today unveiled their brand new kit designs for the 2022-23 season!

With the side entering European competition, Riders have today launched their European Edition featuring sponsors Jelson Homes, Morningside Pharmaceuticals, and Hilton – Leicester.

Fans will get to see the new kits for the first time in person at tonight’s game with the squad sporting the brand new white kit!

Should Riders make it through the Champions League Qualifying the BCL patch will be added to the upper left side of the design.

Due to the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, this evening’s game against Donar Groningen will be held behind closed doors out of respect.

Riders’ second preseason friendly against Donar on Sunday 11th, and their final preseason game against Norrkoping Dolphins on Wednesday 14th, will be played, and the clubs will pay their respect with a 2 minutes silence and wear black bands on their left shoulders.

Any tickets purchased for tonight’s game are transferable to one of the remaining friendly games, but if you already have tickets for these games, please contact us at [email protected] with your name and booking reference number and we will refund your tickets.

We appreciate this may not be the news you wanted to hear but thank you for your understanding during this difficult time.

Ahead of an eagerly anticipated FIBA EuroBasket 2022 that will see some of the world’s best basketball talent compete for supremacy, Great Britain Men’s Head Coach Nate Reinking has confirmed the 12-man roster selected to represent the team at the showpiece tournament.

Riders star Patrick Whelan has been named in the twelve, alongside former Rider Jamell Anderson.
 
GB’s Men have travelled to Milan for the Pool Stages of EuroBasket 2022 – set to take place from September 2 to September 8 – where they will face Croatia, Estonia, Greece, Italy and Ukraine for a place in the knockout stages, which will be contested in Berlin.
 
This will be the Men’s team’s first major tournament outing since the 2017 EuroBasket, and the 12-man roster contains several GB stars who have experienced the biggest stages in basketball, as well as several top British talents sampling the major international tournament for the first time.
 
This EuroBasket is being hailed as the best continental basketball tournament ever, with a field of teams full of incredible talent, and as such is a testament to GB’s achievement in securing a place at the top table of European basketball.
 
Speaking ahead of the competition and following the announcement of the final roster, Head Coach Nate Reinking said:
 
“This is a proud moment for the National Team to be embarking on its fifth EuroBasket competition out of the last six iterations. The team has been on a long journey to get to this point and have shown themselves to be capable of competing with the very best teams on the continent and this EuroBasket provides another opportunity to showcase British Basketball.
 
“It shouldn’t be lost on people just how much of an achievement this is for our players and staff to be heading to Milan for the competition, but we’re not just going there to compete – we want to win, and make some history for Great Britain.”
 
Great Britain’s journey to FIBA EuroBasket 2022 qualification began all the way back in November 2018 at the FIBA EuroBasket Pre-Qualifiers, before a historic 11-3 run over the course of three years – including marquee wins over European powerhouses France, Germany and Montenegro – secured qualification to FIBA EuroBasket 2022.
 
All of Great Britain’s fixtures at EuroBasket 2022 can be watched live on FIBA’s streaming platform, Courtside 1891. Head to courtside1891.basketball and use the promo code ‘EUROGB25’ now to get 25% off an annual pass to the platform.

Great Britain Men’s National Team Roster – FIBA EuroBasket 2022
Jamell Anderson
Kavell Bigby-Williams
Dan Clark
Myles Hesson
Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye
Ben Mockford
Luke Nelson
Gabe Olaseni
Ovie Soko
Devon van Oostrum 
Carl Wheatle  
Patrick Whelan

Riders are happy to announce their continued partnership with Applied Nutrition which began in the second half of last season and will see the nutrition brand as an official supplier the 2022-23.

Applied Nutrition are the UK’s fastest growing sports nutrition brand and a trusted and highly regarded player in the category. Riders will use their Informed Sport, batch-tested range of products to support the team pre, during and post games/practice.

“It’s a great partnership for us as it allows us to support our playing staff with the very best of products from a trusted supplier. We enjoyed working with Applied Nutrition last year and we are really happy to be working with them again,” commented Riders Managing Director Russell Levenston.

“The players all loved the products, we believe that correctly fuelling the team with the best nutrition can give us an edge.”

Applied Nutrition currently work with a large roster of international athletes and teams including Fulham FC, Team GB Sprinter Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake and UFC superstars Paddy the Baddy and Molly McCann. After a successful partnership last season, Applied Nutrition are back on board to support Rob Paternostro’s team again this year.

Thomas Ryder, Applied Nutrition’s Managing Director said:

“Our products are perfectly suited to the huge physical demands a basketball season can put on players and we are delighted to be continuing our partnership with the Riders.”

“What the team achieved last year was an incredible demonstration of commitment, hard work and an amazing team spirit and we couldn’t be happier to work with such a talented squad of players.”

“We’re looking forward to supporting Russell and the team in both the BBL and Europe this season to achieve even more.”

Riders are thrilled to announce the signing of talented point guard CJ Jackson for the 2022/23 season! Georgia-born Jackson has played three pro seasons in Scandinavia, averaging 17 points and 10 rebounds per game for Bisons Loimaa in the Finnish first division last season. 

Jackson is a graduate of Ohio State, playing three seasons with the Buckeyes. During his time in college, he played alongside Riders’ sharpshooter Marc Loving for the 2016/17 season. He scored 12 points a game in his senior year before going pro in 2019. 

In his first game as a pro, Jackson showed his clutch genes, hitting a game-winner with 0.8 seconds left on the clock for Swedish side Köping Stars. He played two seasons in Sweden, averaging 17 points, five assists and four rebounds during his time there. 

“I’m super excited to be joining the Rider family,” reflected CJ.

“I can’t wait to start the season. Playing with an old teammate like Marc (Loving) is exciting, and I’m looking forward to going into battle with him again!”  

Head Coach Rob Paternostro commented on the signing:

“We are looking forward to working with CJ. He is a talented guard who can do a variety of things on the basketball court. Throughout his career he has shown that he can be effective both on the ball or off it and can be really difficult to defend.”

“His three point shooting , attacking the basket and passing ability will be a nice addition to our team.”

“We liked his experience, he played in a very good conference in the big ten and played very well, he also has had some very good professional seasons where he was a standout performer.”

Riders play their first pre-season game this Friday against USA Select – tickets are on sale here. Having just landed CJ is expected to make his debut the following week against Donar Groningen.

Riders have announced the BBL support staff for the 2022/23 season. After winning the treble last season, the club are delighted to announce the addition of some key staff members.

“It’s awesome for us to welcome the new faces to the backroom team”, commented Head Coach Rob Paternostro.

“It’s important for us to have a great support staff to support our players for the season ahead and beyond. I’m looking forward to working with them all.”

Former Riders WBBL coach Matt Pitkin returns to the club and joins Pablo Vazquez and Will Maynard on the sideline under head coach Rob Paternostro. Matt will also head up a new role for the club as Pathway Manager.

“It’s an awesome feeling to be back at Leicester after the last five years,” Matt Pitkin reflecting on his return.

“The opportunity to work with one of the BBL’s most decorated teams in the last ten years was one that really excited me. Rob is a serial winner and I’m looking forward to supporting and learning from him.”

“I’m really motivated to support the club in their journey to connect and collaborate their extensive pathway.”

Tom Austin succeeds Jordan Godfrey as the strength & conditioning coach, whilst Ben Pogmore (Head of Medical) and Callum Stevens (Performance Analysis) join the backroom.

Head Coach – Rob Paternostro
Ast. Coach – Matthew Pitkin (previously Harber)
Ast. Coach – Pablo Vazquez
Ast. Coach – Will Maynard
Team Manager – Donna Phillips
Strength & Conditioning – Tom Austin
Head of Medical – Ben Pogmore
Performance Analysis – Callum Stevens

Managing Director Russell Levenston commented “Over the last 5 years we have really developed our support staff to help Rob take the team to next level and this year we feel we have a great group to support for the BBL team and other areas of the club.”

“It is really exciting times for the club following last years’ success and the preparation for the Champions League qualifiers in September.”

Leicester Riders are thrilled to announce a three-year partnership with Vertu Motors and their Leicester dealership – Vertu Toyota Leicester.

The leading car dealership, who also have dealerships in Loughborough, Nottingham, Derby, Mansfield and Grantham, are supplying the team a fleet of Toyota vehicles

Chris Taylor, Group Operations Director at Vertu Motors, said: “Leicester Riders have enjoyed huge success on the court over the years and most importantly they are revered for the work they do to support local communities. We hugely admire their dedication to developing young people of all ages, through working with schools in the area and player
pathways in Leicester and Loughborough. We are very proud to partner with the team.”

Robert Forrester, Chief Executive of Vertu Motors, added: “Following our Group’s successful partnerships with Newcastle Eagles and Glasgow Rocks, we are delighted to announce a further deal within the British Basketball League, with Leicester Riders. We are focused on continuing to drive brand awareness with key audiences; this partnership will serve to cement our name within the local community, and we can’t wait to get the season started.”

Russell Levenston, Managing Director at Leicester Riders, commented:

“It gives us great pleasure to welcome Vertu Motors as an Official Partner for the upcoming season. The Riders are committed to working with national brands that have a link to the local community and we are keen to help the region in becoming a more prosperous location for their business.

“We take pride in providing success both on and off the court, and we feel that this partnership, with Vertu Motors’ renowned quality service and customer care, will help us accomplish just that.”

Vertu Motors hold partnerships with a number of sports clubs across the country, including in football and cricket, with Burnley FC, Middlesbrough FC and Sunderland AFC, alongside Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club, Yorkshire County Cricket Club and Durham Cricket.

Riders will face Swedish side Norrköping Dolphins at Morningside Arena on Wednesday 14 September at 7.30pm tip, as they prepare for the new season.

Dolphins won the league title in Sweden last year and will also feature in the Basketball Champions League Qualifiers on 21st.

After facing Rob Paternostro’s men, Norrköping will travel to the north-east where they face Newcastle Eagles on 16 September.

Tickets for our home pre-season game versus Dolphins are available here.

Riders are excited to announce the re-signing of former Ohio State forward Marc Loving for the 2022/23 season. The sharpshooting stretch-four scored 12 points a game last season on an efficient 46% from the field. 

Loving played an integral part of the Riders’ treble-winning season last year. His season-high of 32 points game back in November, torching the Cheshire Phoenix to settle into Leicester life quickly, before earning Player of the Month in December.

Loving with the steal and BIG dunk to finish!

📺:Watch live on https://t.co/wjeD9FiB4Z
📊:https://t.co/hmfV1ugt9i#BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/tElAyYuids

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) November 19, 2021

Prior to last season, Loving competed in the NBA G-League for the Delaware Bluecoats and the Agua Caliente Clippers. This came after a successful four-year stint at Ohio State, where he averaged 13 points and five rebounds across his junior and senior years. 

Loving became a fan favourite throughout the season and will bring a bounce to the Morningside Arena with his highlight plays.

“I’m looking forward to being back & building on what we accomplished last year,” said Loving. “I’m happy to be back with a great coaching staff and fan base. This year should be really exciting!”

Loving the game. pic.twitter.com/KU43cMIWxg

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) December 30, 2021

Head Coach Rob Paternostro reflected on Loving’s return:

“We are thrilled to have Marc back for another season. He is a very talented player with a high basketball IQ whose versatility allows him to play in many different positions on both ends of the floor.”

“I thought he was excellent last season. He is a player that you feel comfortable with on the floor because he consistently makes the right plays both offensively and defensively.”

“His three point shot is a great weapon in our offence, he has unlimited range out there but I also think that his passing and playmaking were very important to our offence last season.”

Riders have accepted a bid from German BBL side BG Göttingen to buy BBL MVP Geno Crandall out of his new contract.

Despite signing in July, BG Göttingen’s bid triggered a release in the contract with Crandall that allows him to leave if an exceptional opportunity presented itself.

As such Crandall will now play for the FIBA Europe Cup side in Germany this coming season.

“We always said that if a team came in for Geno, and he wanted to go, we wouldn’t stand in his way, provided the club was compensated,” commented Managing Director Russell Levenston.

“He’s been the MVP in the league for the last two seasons and he was always going to attract attention from bigger European Clubs and leagues.”

“We were hopeful it wouldn’t be the case having recruited the majority of players back from last season.”

“He has tremendous ability and made an immeasurable impact not only on our club but also the BBL as a whole.”

“We wish Geno, Tasha and his young family all the best for the future in Germany and beyond.”

Riders Head Coach Rob Paternostro reflected on Geno’s departure:

“We wish Geno all the best and thank him for a tremendous two seasons. He is a fantastic player and competitor who produced in so many ways.”

“To say it’s a big blow would be an understatement. Obviously, we built this team with the thought that Geno would be back so now we have to adjust.” 

“We have a tough resilient group that will be ready to rise to challenge.”

FIBA have released the four host venues for the Qualification Rounds – TFT Skopje (MKD), Unicaja (ESP), SL Benfica (POR) and FMP Meridian (SRB), taking place in September.

These four tournaments will determine the last four spots in the Regular Season of BCL’s seventh season. Riders will travel to North Macedonia, the home of Skopje for their games.

Qualification Round Tournament 1 (Group A) – Skopje, MKD – Boris Trajkovski Sports Center

Game days: 21, 23 & 25 September 2022
Participating Clubs: Fribourg Olympic (SUI), Tofas Bursa (TUR), CSO Voluntari (ROU), Leicester Riders (GBR), NINERS Chemnitz (GER), TFT Skopje (MKD)

Quarter-Final 1: Leicester Riders vs CSO Voluntari
Quarter-Final 2: TFT Skopje vs NINERS Chemnitz

Semi-Final 1: Tofas Bursa vs Winner of Leicester Riders/CSO Voluntari
Semi-Final 2: Fribourg Olympic vs Winner of TFT Skopje/NINERS Chemnitz

Final: Winner SF1 – Winner SF2

The four winners of the Qualification Round tournaments will qualify for the Regular Season, joining the 28 directly qualified teams.

Tip-off times will be determined at a later stage.

Back-to-back BBL MVP Geno Crandall returns to the Riders! ‘The general’ led the Riders to a treble-winning year last season, and will look to help bring yet more silverware to the Morningside Arena.

Winning MVP last season, Crandall became just the fourth player in BBL history to win the award back-to-back. It was one of three individual awards for Crandall this past season, having also picked up the BBL Cup final MVP and the BBL Playoff final MVP.

Crandall led the Riders to their biggest league-winning margin in franchise history, as the Riders concluded the year with a 27-2 record, 16 points clear of second place. He put up his season-high scoring effort to clinch the league title with 25 points against the Plymouth City Patriots.

The Gonzaga graduate finished the season averaging 13.1 points and 6.8 assists, his assist tally ranking in the top five in the BBL. He also ranked second in +/- and top 10 in steals, as his efforts showed up all over the box score.

“We are thrilled to have Geno back in Leicester, he is a proven winner with hardware to back it up,” commented head coach Rob Paternostro.

“He is a guy that has provided an elite level of play from day one. He can do it all on both ends of the floor, his playmaking and ability to eliminate defenders really makes us go on offence, and his athletic ability, ball pressure and intelligence have been valuable to our defence.”

Crandall is looking forward to taking the Riders into Europe: “I’ve always wanted to challenge myself to reach the highest levels I can as a player and entering into European competition gives me the opportunity to do that.”

Geno becomes the seventh player announcement of the summer alongside Darien Nelson-Henry and Blake Bowman, joining multi-year players Conner Washington, Mo Walker, Patrick Whelan and Kimbal Mackenzie.

Earlier this month Leicester Riders confirmed they would take part in European competition in the form of the Champions League Qualification rounds again this season.

Managing Director Russell Levenston explains the decision to enter Europe in the Champions League competition this term.

“Our ambitions are to be competing at the top-level of Europe and believe champions league is the right competition for our club. We assessed the merits of us joining the FIBA Europe Cup if we don’t qualify but decided that wasn’t right for us.” 

“Each competition comes with its own financial and logistical pressures, and believe the commercial level of the Champions League is the correct one for us.”

“We have to build the foundations, it’s a learning process for us. Our aim is to be competing on the European stage each season, but it’s pivotal that this is done within our means and in a measured and sustainable way to build on our successes.”

“I’d like to thank our sponsors for continuing to support us – particularly Jelson Homes, Morningside, Lumbers Jewellers and Hilton Hotels & Resorts.”

“We are all looking forward to the game against CSO Voluntari, they had great domestic success last season and it will prove a test for us.”

Riders have signed exciting young British star Blake Bowman on a multi-year deal, his first professional contract! The 20-year-old Derby native has played his last three seasons with his hometown Trailblazers in the NBL, before setting his sights on turning professional. 

Bowman averaged 19 points, six rebounds and three assists in the NBL last season, and helped bring silverware to the midlands too. He played a pivotal role in their L Lynch Trophy win, averaging 17 points and 6.5 rebounds through the tournament, and putting up a double-double in the final. 

“We are thrilled to have Blake join our club, he is coming off an excellent season for Derby and we are looking for him to come in and display those skills right away,” commented head coach Rob Paternostro.

“I really enjoyed watching him play this season, he is very athletic with good size and length that can really get to the rim. He has a versatility to his game that’s exciting for now and for the future.” 

“We have had some very good young players who have studied at Loughborough and played professionally with us. Conner Washington, Jamell Anderson and Josh Ward-Hibbert are players that flourished in that situation both on and off the court.”

Bowman will continue his studies at Loughborough while competing for Leicester in the BBL, the 6’6” wing is excited to get going… 

“I’m very excited to be going up against the best players in the country week in, week out. I’m looking forward to the challenge of playing against established pros,” said Bowman. 

“The level of competition within the team is the highest in Britain. Competing with these guys everyday in practice will only make it easier come game time.”

Blake’s father Barry had a spell in the BBL during his professional career, while his uncle, Marc Hawley played 56 games in two seasons for the Riders between 1997 and 1999.

The move to Riders has been made possible with the great relationship held between the club and Loughborough University/Loughborough College who continue to support giving the next generation of players opportunities to further their education.

The Riders will host Dutch outfit Donar Groningen during their upcoming preseason. The games will take place on Friday the 9th and Sunday the 11th of September, both at the Morningside Arena.

Leicester faced Donar home and away in last year’s postseason, the Dutch side proving a stern test for the Riders. The fixtures provided key minutes to the newly formed Leicester squad, setting them up for their treble-winning season. 

Donar enters their preseason off the back of a decorated year of their own, finishing third in the BNXT League and emerging victors of the NBB Cup. It was the seventh time Donar have lifted the trophy and secured their third-place league finish with a 14-6 record. 

These fixtures accompany the previously announced game against the USA Select, which takes place on Monday the 2nd of September.

Get your tickets here!

Four contracted Riders players are returning to Leicester for next season, as Patrick Whelan, Mo Walker, Kimbal Mackenzie and Conner Washington continue their multi-year deals. The quartet played a pivotal role in the Riders’ treble-winning season, and will look to bring further success to the Morningside Arena. 

Whelan was named in the Molten BBL Team of the Year, and the Molten BBL British Team of the Year last season! The Warrington-born two-guard led the Riders with 15.3 points per game, and was the BBL’s second-best three-point shooter on the year, averaging 48% from deep. 

Mackenzie and Washington combined to create an elite backcourt duo off the bench. They averaged 7.9 and 7.3 points respectively and stepped up in the biggest moments of the season. Washington played big minutes late in the Playoff semi-final and final, scoring 20 points in the semi-final’s second leg, while Mackenzie’s season-high of 15 points came in Leicester’s BBL Cup final win. 

Canadian/British big man Mo Walker was dominant down low, averaging 11.6 points and 5.2 rebounds a game. He shot 61% from the field and 71% from the free-throw line in an efficient season, putting up a season-high of 20 points and eight rebounds in March. 

“All four players were very influential in our team’s success last season,” commented head coach Rob Paternostro. “They displayed talent, professionalism and team play, and we are thrilled to have them back and look forward to watching them perform.”

The British Basketball League (BBL) are excited to reveal new changes to the format of the BBL season ahead of the start of the 2022-23 campaign.

The new season will begin in September with BBL Championship action, with each team now facing each other four times (2H, 2A), playing 36 games across a 28-week league season. Basketball fans will be able to watch weekly action via both official broadcast partner Sky Sports and the BBL player.

The BBL Cup competition will now be a knockout competition featuring all 10 BBL teams. Those teams who placed 1st-6th in the 2021-22 league season will receive a bye into the Quarter Finals with seeds 1-4 receiving a guaranteed home date in the Quarter Finals.

The Semi-Finals will be an open draw. All rounds will be one-legged ties, as teams battle it out to make the final at Birmingham’s Utilita Arena for the final which takes place on Sunday 29th January.

The BBL Trophy will retain the same 16-team knockout bracket format, with the 10 BBL teams joining six invited non-BBL teams, who are to be announced in due course.

Those who made the Trophy Quarter Finals in the 2021-22 season will receive a guaranteed home tie in the First Round of the 2022-23 Trophy, with an open draw determining ties and seeding. All rounds will be one-legged ties.

The BBL Play-offs will retain the same format, with the top eight teams in the BBL Championship standings advancing to the Play-offs.

The BBL’s Chief Operating Officer, Andy Webb, said:

“We’re really excited to be announcing the new format for the 2022-23 season. The changes will help fans stay across all of the action taking place in the BBL Championship, Cup and Trophy, with each competition given precedence across dedicated weekends throughout the season. We’re looking forward to finalising and announcing the full fixture calendar to supporters in the coming weeks as preparations for another thrilling season of action continue.”

Fixtures for next season will be revealed in full later this summer, for further updates please visit bbl.org.uk and the leagues social media channels.

Coach Rob Paternostro’s All-Star Testimonial game will see the BBL All-Stars take on Riders Legends in a highly anticipated fixture. A collection of some of the greatest talent to grace the BBL will suit up to form a star-studded cast, as the All-Stars will prove a formidable outfit in what is set to be a hotly contested game.  

Get your tickets here!

📰 A week out from Coach Rob's All-star Testimonial game…

Riders have announced the latest rosters with the teams split between Riders Legends & BBL All-Stars! More additions are expected to be announced later this week!

🎟: https://t.co/re2lFQU177

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) June 4, 2022

London Lions’ walking bucket Dirk Williams, GB’s most consecutively capped player Teddy Okereafor and Manchester Giants’ sharpshooter Josh Steel represent some of the BBL’s elite set to take the court. 

“I’m excited! It’s cool to be named to play alongside all of these other great players,” said Steel, the London-born two-guard who shot 42% from deep last season. “The Riders always put on a good show, so I’m looking forward to a good night and to be able to lace them up with some talented guys.”

✔️ CONFIRMED for Coach Rob's All-star Testimonial… @gbbasketball & @McrGiants, former @surreyscorchers @AbbeyBasketball star… @IAMJSTEEL!

#BritishBasketball

🔗 Tickets: https://t.co/re2lFQU177 pic.twitter.com/FEHr9ReRLs

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) May 3, 2022

Some of the BBL’s all-time greats will don the black and yellow of the All-Stars. Sheffield Sharks’ all-time leading scorer Mike Tuck and the league’s most decorated player Darius Defoe are just two names on a roster stacked with accomplishments. 

Mathew Bryan-Amaning is another, the 6’8” forward has played 14 pro seasons, five in the BBL. “The roster that has been put together is excellent, with a lot of active guys who play to a high standard,” commented Bryan-Amaning, who averaged 20 points per game for the London Lions in 2014.

✔️ CONFIRMED for Coach Rob's All-star Testimonial…

X2 MVP LNBP Mexico, League winner (France ProB, Mexico, Argentina, Japan B), former @LondonLions @LDNCityRoyals & @CheshireNix star… @MBALIVE11!

#BritishBasketball

🔗 Tickets: https://t.co/re2lFQU177 pic.twitter.com/pCE5XowoYp

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) May 18, 2022

“It should be a good event, and a good day of basketball. The fans don’t get to see these guys playing often, especially all at one time, so it will be a good event to celebrate Rob’s achievement’s so far!”

Among those to recently grace the BBL are electric GB guard Kofi Josephs, who averaged a league-best 21 points for the Plymouth City Patriots last season, and Jordan Williams, who has eight BBL seasons to his name, including last season spent with the London Lions.

Joining them is Surrey Scorcher legend Tayo Ogendengbe, who has competed in the BBL for the last 12 seasons, averaging 17 points in the 2018/19 season.

Completing the squad is 17-year European pro Devon Van Oostrum, who averaged 16 points for the Leeds Force in 2015, and Newcastle Eagles’ legend Charles Smith, the 2014-15 BBL MVP winner who averaged 18.6 points that season.

Coach Rob’s right-hand man, assistant coach Pablo Vazquez, has shared the sidelines with Rob since 2016. He added: “The commitment and hard work since the moment Rob arrived at this club has created a legacy.

“It will be a great event with so many players who have created history in British Basketball. I’m hoping for a great crowd to celebrate Rob’s commitment to the Leicester Riders organisation!”

In anticipation of the game, coach Rob commented:

“I’m so excited about Saturday. Seeing so many friends in one place will make it a night to remember. I feel honoured to be given this testimonial game and I appreciate all the people who have helped put this night together.”

The game should be a high level of basketball, and that’s something I really wanted to have. The rosters are filled with so much talent, so it should be fun watching all those great players go at it.”

A host of Riders legends and BBL All-stars will be on court at Morningside Arena for Rob Paternostro’s testimonial on 11 June 2022. With a few big name additions still expected to join the current line-ups, the final line-ups will be announced later this week.

The teams will be split along Riders lines with generations of Riders stars to play a BBL All-Stars team.

Riders Legends
Tyler Bernardini
Jorge Calvo
Jay Couisnard
Harrison Gamble
Rashad Hassan
Taylor King
Barry Lamble
Rema Lascelles
Zaire Taylor
Drew Sullivan
Andy Thomson
Shane Walker

BBL All-stars
Matthew Bryan Amaning
Darius Defoe
Kofi Josephs
Tayo Ogedengbe
Teddy Okereafor
Charles Smith
Josh Steel
Mike Tuck
Devon Van Oostrum
Dirk Williams
Jordan Williams

Coaching staff will be announced this week and the line-up for the half-time 3-point contest competitors!

Tickets are available here.

Tonight sees the End of Season Awards for the Riders BBL & WBBL squads at Morningside Arena. As a special dedication, the club has announced that the Coach’s Player of the Year will be named after Eric Robertson.

Eric, who passed away earlier this year, was a part of the Riders family from 2016 to 2018, making 87 BBL appearances and winning six trophies (x2 Trophy, x2 League, x2 Playoff).

The Coach’s Player of the Year goes to that player who stands for everything a coach would want in a player both on and off court.

It’s an honour for us to recognise Eric’s impact and his legacy through the Eric Robertson Award.

The Riders face off against the London Lions in the BBL Playoff Final at the O2 Arena! The game will take place on Sunday, tipping off at 4:15. 

Get your tickets here! 

Road to the O2- Riders

After lifting the BBL Cup and winning the BBL Championship by a franchise-record margin, the Riders have fought their way through the playoffs in an attempt to secure the treble. They entered the playoffs on hot form, having lost just two games in the regular season to earn a first-round draw against the eighth-seeded Plymouth City Patriots. 

🏆🏆🏆 LEAGUE CHAMPIONS 2021-22!!!! pic.twitter.com/alOfqDrWUk

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) April 6, 2022

Patrick Whelan led them through the first leg with 19 points, as the Riders earned a 15 point advantage with a 86-71 road win. The Patriots fought back in the second leg, taking an aggregate lead in the third quarter. But Zach Jackson scored 10 straight points in response before Leicester saw out the game to book a spot in the semis. 

They faced the seventh-seeded Glasgow Rocks in the semi-final, who came into the tie fresh off the back of an underdog win against the two-seeded Sheffield Sharks. After a closely fought opening half in the first leg, the Riders put one foot in the final by the final buzzer, taking a 21 point lead into the return fixture behind Geno Crandall’s 32 points, 11 assists seven rebounds and five steals. 

📹 @genocrandall's Semi Final first leg highlights… pic.twitter.com/f8Hx1qwSyZ

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) May 7, 2022

In the second leg, the Riders sealed the win in a professional display, beating Glasgow 104-78. Crandall led the team with 22 points and eight assists in 25 minutes, and Conner Washington exploded for 10 points in the fourth to log 20 points in the game, the GB guard closing out an impressive win.

Journey to the O2- Lions

London entered the postseason as the third seed, falling short of their title-winning aspirations to finish the season with a 16-11 record. They found form to end the year, winning three on the bounce as they prepared to face the Cheshire Phoenix in the first round. 

They started the playoffs with a bang, beating the Phoenix by 16 in the first leg at home, led by 17 from Julian Washburn. In the second leg, Cheshire put a scare into the Lions, exploding out the gate to a 53-24 lead midway through the second. But London regained their composure at the half, fighting back to win the tie by 14 on aggregate.

In the semis, they met the Bristol Flyers, a team who had tested the Lions with close encounters throughout the season. The first leg was no different, as London edged an 85-83 win going back to the Copperbox. There was little between the sides by halftime in the return fixture, before the Lions exploded in the second half to book their place in the final. Star tandem Isaiah Reese and Dirk Williams scored 28 and 26 respectively to lead their team through the game.  

One to watch- Riders

To book the Riders’ place in the BBL Playoff final, Conner Washington’s season-high 20 points in 18 minutes put the game beyond doubt. The 11 year Rider shot 50% from the field and 44% from deep, putting on a vintage display for the fans. 

“To come out and be aggressive is always my game plan,” commented Washington postgame. “Coming into this game, I didn’t want to hold back. I wanted to play hard defence and find my shot.”

The Bedford born point guard is a spark plug off the bench for Leicester, coming into the game off the bench to provide elite shooting, playmaking and defence. He has earned 12 trophies for the Riders in his career and was named to the BBL All-Defensive and All-British first teams in 2017. 

Washington’s championship experience will prove vital at the O2. “In the final, we’ll come out and be aggressive, stick to our principles and do what we do,” said the Loughborough University graduate. “We’ve played the Lions throughout the season and know them really well. It’s going to be a great game to watch, but the main focus for us is to stick to what we’ve been doing.” 

One to watch- Lions

After leading the BBL in scoring through the season, London’s star guard Isaiah Reese has been on a tear in the postseason, averaging 23 points a game. His 28 point performance was his postseason highlight so far, stuffing the stat sheet with eight assists, eight rebounds and six steals. 

The 6’5” two-guard played two seasons in the NBA G-League before signing with London, scoring 8.3 points per game in his second year with the Santa Cruz Warriors. This came after a successful three-year college career with Canisius College, where he became the 38th player in the school’s history with over 1000 career points. 

Reese is a bucket from deep, shooting 39% from behind the arc this season on eight attempts per game. He led the team in points and assists, dishing six a game to demonstrate his ability to score, and get his teammates involved. 

Previous meetings

The sides met seven times this season in all competitions, with the Riders taking the season series 5-2. Leicester knocked London out of the BBL Cup semi-finals over two legs in their most high-profile games of the season, and won a 103-67 blowout in their most recent game. 

Geno Crandall and Zach Jackson balled out in the win, both scoring 16 points as Leicester shot 55% from three. The Lions endured a difficult shooting night, going 36% from the field and 21.2% from three, as Italian sniper Lorenzo Cugini’s 16 points led them in the loss. 

📹 Game highlights from the win over @londonlions #BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/4YIinntYQU

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) April 18, 2022

It is advantage Riders in the BBL playoff semi-final, after they won the first leg 105-84 against the Glasgow Rocks. 

After being named the British Journalists’ Player of the Year in the week, reigning BBL MVP Geno Crandall put on a show for the Riders, putting up an astonishing 32 points, 11 assists seven rebounds and five steals. The Gonzaga graduate’s points tally is his season-high, as he led his team a step closer to the final. 

Crandall comes up with the and-1 for the three point play!

📺: https://t.co/wjeD9FiB4Z
📊: https://t.co/UPyXcYXlzA#BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/FaGHd6Pe8Q

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) May 7, 2022

It was a red hot performance for the league’s best offence, scoring 105 points by shooting 55% from the floor. In the third, where the Riders began to build their lead, they drained six threes, finishing the game making 54%.

The Rocks took a double-digit lead shortly after halftime, but fell victim to a Riders offensive explosion to which they had no answer. Jordan Harris went blow for blow with Crandall in a battle in the backcourt, leading the team with his season-high 29 points.

It was Leicester who got off to the better start. Back to back threes got the Riders on the board, as they jumped out to an 8-2 lead. They carried their early momentum through the first five minutes, led by eight points from Marc Loving, to force a Rocks timeout up 11. 

Whelan for threeeee!

📺: https://t.co/wjeD9FiB4Z
📊: https://t.co/UPyXcYXlzA#BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/SRVPY62qCu

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) May 7, 2022

The Riders exploded on both ends through the first period, which finished 25-17 in Leicester’s favour. They shot 52% through the quarter while holding Glasgow to 33%, flexing their BBL-best offence and defence. 

Glasgow fought back into contention to start the second, tying the game courtesy of eight points from first-year pro Harris. Three Leicester turnovers in as many minutes allowed the hosts to build momentum on the fastbreak, as the Rocks started the quarter 12-4.

The score swung back and forth until the half, which Glasgow’s Jordan Johnson concluded with a three at the buzzer to make it 48-43 to the hosts. Crandall had 15 by halftime, the MVP taking the reigns for the Riders, while Harris put up a monster 20 point first-half performance for Glasgow. 

Crandall comes up with the and-1 for the three point play!

📺: https://t.co/wjeD9FiB4Z
📊: https://t.co/UPyXcYXlzA#BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/FaGHd6Pe8Q

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) May 7, 2022

In the third, it was Glasgow’s turn to hit two threes to start the half, building their lead to double digits. Johnson nailed both, as the former NBA G-League point guard improved his game total to nine. 

The Riders’ response was immediate, as Whelan his team back into the game. The British Journalists’ British Player of the Year scored eight quick points to retake the lead in 90 seconds. Whelan’s play lit a fire under Leicester from deep, as they nailed five threes six minutes into the third quarter. 

Whelan knocks down the three!!!

📺: https://t.co/wjeD9FiB4Z
📊: https://t.co/UPyXcYXlzA#BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/vlSl6u0MPz

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) May 7, 2022

Zach Jackson scored nine straight in the latter stages of the third, continuing his hot form from the quarter-final where he accomplished the same feat. the Omaha graduate’s play put the Riders up 77-69 entering the final quarter.

Conner Washington kicked off the fourth with five quick points to stretch the Leicester lead. The 11-year Riders put his team in good stead as they looked to close out the tie. 

Washington strings it!

📺: https://t.co/wjeD9FiB4Z
📊: https://t.co/UPyXcYXlzA#BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/iZFma1shiV

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) May 7, 2022

Crandall took over the dying stages of the game, scoring seven points in the final five minutes to stretch the lead to 19. The Riders commenced a 9-2 run late in the tie to consolidate their advantage going into the return fixture. Crandall closed the game with a free throw, making it a 22 point game. 

The return leg will take place on Monday, with the game tipping off at 7:45. Should the Riders win over the two legs, they will book their place in the Playoff final at the O2 Arena.

For the second straight season, Leicester Riders guard Geno Crandall has scooped the Player of the Year in the Basketball Journalists Association’s annual awards for the 2021-22 season.

Crandall averaged 13.1 points and 6.8 assists a game this season, shooting an efficient 50 percent from the floor during the regular season, as he led the Riders to a league and Cup double.

“It’s an honour to be recognised by the British basketball media that cover the game,” Crandall said.

“To be rewarded for the work that I have put in not just throughout the season but also during the off-season where I made commitments to better myself and my game certainly means a lot.”

Manchester Giants’ Tyrik Armstrong finished second in the voting with Riders’ Patrick Whelan, third.

Along with Crandall, Leicester Riders Rob Paternostro also won back-to-back awards as he claimed his second straight Coach of the Year accolade.

Thanks to Paternostro’s leadership, Leicester secured a 25-2 record for the season, achieving a BBL record-winning margin of 16 points between them and second placed Sheffield Sharks.

“It’s been wonderful to work with our team this season,” Paternostro said.

“Their talent, togetherness and commitment has been on display since we came together in August.

“It’s been fun to come to work each day, working with the players and staff that we have assembled here. It’s been awesome.”

Lloyd Gardner, who led Manchester Giants to their first final in 21 years and a first playoff spot since 2014 was second in the voting with Sharks coach Atiba Lyons in third.

Completing a hat-trick of awards for the Riders is Patrick Whelan, as he wins the Pete Jacques Award for Best British Player in the BBL.

One of the leading shooters this season, Whelan shot 47.9 percent from three-point range and 54.2 percent from the field, overall, averaging 15.3 points per game.

“From such a strong pool of British players in this league, I’m extremely blessed and grateful to even be considered for this award, let alone win it,” Whelan said.

Manchester Giants’ Dan Clark was second in the voting with Cheshire Phoenix’s Teddy Okereafor in third.

Karlie Samuelson of Spanish side Perfumerias Avenida won this season’s Syd Lipski International Award for top British performer on the global stage.

The Great Britain international reached the EuroLeague Women Final Four for a second straight season and secured a bronze medal in the process.

Samuelson averaged 7.3 points as well as shooting 48 percent from three-point range in Europe’s premier competition with season-high performances of 17 points on two occasions in the regular season.

Temi Fagbenle, who reached the EuroCup Women semi-finals with CBK Mersin, was second in the voting with Myles Hesson of Japanese league side, Saga Ballooners, third.

The Riders face the Plymouth City Patriots in the BBL Playoff quarter-final, the second of two legs. The first leg was played in Plymouth, an 86-71 Riders win. The return fixture is at the Morningside Arena, tipping off at 4pm on Sunday. 

Get your tickets here!

Season so far- Riders

The Riders locked up the one-seed with five games to spare, winning the BBL Championship by a franchise-record 16 point margin. Leicester earned their 25-2 record with the BBL’s best offence and defence, making them the third team in BBL history to lead the league in points scored and conceded. They put up 91 points per contest while giving up 72, dominating on both ends. 

To tip off the postseason, the Riders put in a dominant away display against Plymouth. Despite a difficult shooting start, Leicester kicked into gear through the final three quarters, shooting 50% from the field and 40% from three in the game. 

Read our report from the win!

Patrick Whelan kicked off his postseason campaign with 19 points and seven rebounds, while Geno Crandall’s six-point fourth quarter sealed the first-leg advantage. The win was the Riders’ 37th straight against Plymouth, a streak dating back to December 2012. 

Last night's @premlogistics Player of the Game was @p_whelan1Two – his tenth of the season. pic.twitter.com/U3X0UMsidD

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) April 30, 2022

Having won the BBL Cup and the league title earlier in the year, the Riders are going for their fourth-ever treble in the playoffs. With a commanding lead going into the second leg, they will look to continue their red hot home form to secure a spot in the semi-finals. 

Season so far- Patriots

After a 0-8 start to the season, a Patriots’ miraculous turnaround earned them a playoff place, going 12-7 since. A dramatic “win or go home” game against the Newcastle Eagles, with the winner taking the final playoff spot, secured 8th place for Plymouth.

They jumped out to a hot start to their postseason, forcing an early Riders timeout with a 10-2 run to start the game. But they left themselves with work to do in the second leg, as the Riders came back to take a 15 point lead by the final buzzer. 

Kent State point guard Troy Simons led the team with 16 points, while his backcourt teammate Anotnio Williams put up 15 points, nine assists and 5 rebounds in a stat sheet stuffing performance. The Patriots’ offence struggled for consistency against the BBL’s best defence, shooting 44% from the field and going 4-16 from three. 

A monumental turnaround is needed to get Plymouth back into the tie, as they attempt to make the second round in their first season as a franchise. 

One to watch- Riders

Scoring ten straight Riders’ points to end the third quarter, Zach Jackson played a pivotal role in building the Leicester lead in the first leg. The Omaha graduate finished with 14 points, going 5-7 from the field in the win. 

📹 How good was @Zach_Jackson15 last night! #BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/XmIGzjfMRi

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) April 30, 2022

Jackson averaged 18 points per game in his senior year at Omaha, before the Kansas born small-forward progressed to the Ukrainian league in his first pro season. Jackson is playing in his second Riders season and averaged 10 points per game this year. 

An elite scorer, Jackson is a threat from anywhere on the court, able to make big plays at the rim and score efficiently from deep. He is capable of exploding for monster performances, with a season-high of 28 coming against the Bristol Flyers earlier in the year. 

With his defence, scoring and team-first attitude, Jackson is the epitome of what makes Rob Paternostro’s side the BBL’s premier outfit. 

One to watch- Patriots

In his third Plymouth season, Rashad Hassan has been on a tear, having averaged a monster 17.3 points and 7.4 rebounds this season. He enters this game after dominating down low in the first leg, putting up 15 points and seven rebounds. 

Hassan is a former Rider, who played his first two pro seasons in Leicester. He averaged 18 points a game in his second season, before going on to play for the London Lions and Rueil in the French third division. 

Hassan averaged 19.2 points per game in his first two Plymouth seasons and helped them to 21-9 record last year. His contributions towards winning are needed now more than ever for the Patriots, as they look to make a comeback against the league champions. 

In the third quarter of tonight’s game our Head Coach Rob Paternostro was attacked by a spectator at Plymouth Pavilions.

We would like to thank the medical staff who attended to Rob for their swift response. 

Both Leicester Riders and Plymouth City Patriots strongly condemn the actions of the spectator. There is no place for this behaviour in our game. 

The matter is currently being investigated by the Police.    

The Riders tipped off their BBL playoffs campaign with a win in Plymouth, beating the Patriots 86-71 in the first leg of the quarter-finals. 

Patrick Whelan led the team with 19 points and seven rebounds in his first BBL playoff game, his strong third-quarter setting the tone for Leicester. The Riders won the third 25-18, building their lead before maintaining their advantage in the fourth. 

Reigning MVP Geno Crandall also put up big numbers in the win, scoring 18 points. His defensive efforts also showed in the box score, as the Gonzaga graduate, who finished the season ranking top 10 in steals per game, added another four to his season tally. 

After scoring just 12 in the first quarter, the Riders’ BBL-best offence clicked into gear and scored at a 100 point pace the rest of the way. They hit eight threes in three periods after not hitting one in the first, and shot their foul shots at an efficient rate, making 22 of 24. 

They held the Patriots to under 20 points in each quarter, despite a 16 point performance from Kent State point guard Troy Simons. Plymouth struggled to lock in from deep, going 4-16 from three, and turned the ball over 14 times. 

But it was the hosts who jumped out to a quick start, hitting their first five shots to build a quick 10-2 lead. Leicester endured early offensive struggles, starting 1-6 for two points in five minutes. They hung in the tie through their work on the defensive end, as the Patriots went 1-6 after their hot start. But six turnovers in the quarter meant the Riders trailed 17-12 after the first. 

The sides traded buckets to start the second, as Conner Washington got the quarter started with the Riders’ first three of the game, taking the lid off the basket. After former Rider Rashad Hassan responded with two quick Plymouth baskets down low, Washington drained another deep shot to tie the game three minutes into the second. 

Washington knocks down the three!

📺: https://t.co/wjeD9FiB4Z
📊: https://t.co/mX0qdVGb7W#BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/R5zO41C6fN

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) April 29, 2022

The score continued to swing back and forth to close the half, which was concluded in style by Crandall. Isolating against the bigger Hassan, he jab-stepped before cooly draining a three in his face, taking a 37-36 lead entering the locker rooms. Crandall scored 10 points in the first half to lead Leicester to a narrow advantage. 

Three fouls in two minutes to start the second half sidelined Crandall, so it was Patrick Whelan who stepped up in the third. He scored eight points, including two threes to stretch the lead to eight. 

Whelan strings it!

📺: https://t.co/wjeD9FiB4Z
📊: https://t.co/mX0qdVGb7W#BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/2fzWpdGx6F

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) April 29, 2022

Zach Jackson closed the quarter scoring 10 straight Riders points, as a 10-2 run closed the period to put Leicester up double digits. The Omaha graduate drained a three as the clock ticked down, making it 64-52 in his team’s favour. 

Whelan and Jackson continued their form in the final period, scoring a basket each to get the action underway, as the Riders kept the Patriots at arm’s length in the fourth.

What a finish from Jackson!

📺: https://t.co/wjeD9FiB4Z
📊: https://t.co/mX0qdVGb7W#BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/kHoOplkMoE

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) April 29, 2022

Crandall concluded the tie with a tough finish at the rim for his sixth points of the quarter, as the Riders carried a strong advanatge into the return leg. 

The Riders look to seal the deal in front of their home crowd on Sunday, as they host the second leg of this fixture. A win on aggregate score would see them advance to the semi-finals, as Leicester aim for the treble.

Season so far- Riders

The Riders conclude their league season against the Plymouth City Patriots, looking to finish their title-winning year with a 25-2 record. A win in this one would maintain their undefeated home record, as they head into the offseason looking for the treble. 

Leicester is in the midst of an eight-game winning streak and comes into this game off the back of two straight blowouts. Most recently, the Riders dominated in Glasgow, beating the Rocks 101-86. 

Click here to read the match report from the win! 

They had 11 different scorers, five putting up double-digit points. Riders’ tandem of Mo Walker and Kimbal Mackenzie combined for 32 points off the bench, with Walker leading the team with 17 points. 

📹 Season-high for @kimbalmack last night… (what a header at the start @jubril_adekoya! 🤣) pic.twitter.com/ahHaz5SOMx

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) April 20, 2022

The Riders have been the BBL’s premier outfit this year, boasting the best offensive and defensive record in the league. In this game, facing the Patriots will provide crucial intel going into the postseason, as they are a potential first-round matchup in the playoffs. 

Season so far- Patriots

After a 0-8 start to the season, the Patriots’ miraculous turnaround has left them in hot contention for a playoff spot. They are 11-6 since, and enter this game after back to back wins against the Surrey Scorchers and Glasgow Rocks. 

Three Patriots scored over 24 points, as American big man Rashad Hassan’s 31 points led them to a 115-105 win. They shot 62% from the field and 44% from three in an emphatic offensive effort. 

It has been another American native, Antonio Williams, who has led the team this season. The Kent State graduate leads the BBL in scoring with 18.9 points per game, picking up a Player of the Month award in the process. 

With this being Plymouth’s penultimate game of the season, a win would place them in a solid position to qualify for the postseason. 

One to watch- Riders

Canadian/British big man Mo Walker put on a show down low in his previous game. His 17 points off the bench against the Rocks came in just 15 minutes, as the Minnesota graduate went an efficient 6/9 from the field. 

📹 @BigggMo's highlights from last night in Glasgow. #BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/ozBijcVqMN

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) April 20, 2022

Walker is playing in his third Riders season, having gained previous experience in Latvia, France and the BBL for the Worcester Wolves. Walker averaged a monster 18 points and nine rebounds per game for the Wolves. He led the league in rebounds and was the BBL’s fifth-highest scorer per game.

Standing at 6’10”, Walker dominates down low. His paint presence translates to both ends of the floor, using his size to bully the best big men the BBL has to offer. Walker has given the Riders double-digit points off the bench 13 times this season, as he makes big contributions in limited minutes. 

One to watch- Patriots

In his third Plymouth season, Rashad Hassan has been on a tear, averaging a monster 17.6 points and 7.4 assists. He enters this game after his second 30 point performance of the season, and his eight occasion scoring over 20.

Hassan is a former Rider, who played his first two pro seasons in Leicester. He averaged 18 points a game in his second season, before going on to play for the London Lions and Rueil in the French third division. 

Hassan averaged 19.2 points per game in his first two Plymouth seasons and helped them to 21-9 record last year. His contributions towards winning are needed now more than ever for the Patriots, as their last two games of the season are pivotal. 

Previous meeting

The team’s last met in April, in a significant game for the Riders. They were crowned league champions after beating the Patriots 77-60.

Geno Crandall led the Riders in the game with 25 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and three steals- a stat sheet stuffing performance. Leicester shot 41% from three to torch Plymouth, taking a historic road win. 

📹 MVP @genocrandall's 25pts down in Plymouth #BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/YbvOEMGJsj

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) April 7, 2022

For the Patriots, Antonio Williams led them in defeat with 20 points and five rebounds. They shot 36% from the field and 20% from three on a tough shooting night.

The Riders won their final road game of the league season, beating the Glasgow Rocks 101-86. Having previously wrapped up the league title, the win is crucial for maintaining the team’s winning rhythm.

Leicester’s tandem of Mo Walker and Kimbal Mackenzie combined for 32 points off the bench, with Walker leading the team with 17 points. Mackenzie’s 15 points and six assists marks his best statistical performance of the season, as Glasgow’s defence found no answer for the Canadian. 

The lead rose to as much as 27 points before Glasgow’s late flurry of threes cut the game closer.  After taking a double-digit lead in the first half, the Riders controlled the game until the final buzzer. 

They shot 54% from the field and dominated the glass, doubling their season average with 14 offensive rebounds. Leicester had 11 different scorers, five putting up double-digit points, as coach Rob Paternostro split the minutes and the offensive load. 

The win improves the Riders’ record to 24-2, as they extended their winning streak to eight. The Glasgow loss dents their recent hot form, as the hosts entered the game having won nine of the last ten fixtures, and casts doubt on their playoff hopes in the process. 

Glasgow’s Jordan Harris led the game with 19 points in his side’s defeat. The first-year pro out of the University of Georgia went 9-13 from the field and used his elite athleticism to create a multitude of highlights at the rim. 

There was little to separate the scoreline through the opening period, as the sides felt their way into the game in the early stages. There were seven lead changes in the first quarter, one just one point in it with eight minutes gone. 

The Riders closed out the first with a 9-2 run, earning an advantage to end the period. Walker made the difference off the bench, getting to work down low as his matchup, Vance Johnson, picked up two early fouls. 

Walker goes to work! 💪

📺: https://t.co/wjeD9FiB4Z
📊: https://t.co/B3jVMtYpQ7#BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/sKZeal76S6

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) April 19, 2022

The Rocks fought back, with Vance Johnson and Jordan Johnson making up 18 of the team’s 22 initial points. Vance Johnson had nine points and six rebounds in a dominant first quarter display. 

But the second period belonged to Leicester, as they kept their opponents at arm’s length until the half. BBL MVP Geno Crandall turned up the style, handing-off an audacious 360 dish to Patrick Whelan down low to make it an 11 point affair. 

Assist of the year from Crandall! 🙊

Riders out here continuing their 360 degrees highlight game!

📺: https://t.co/wjeD9FiB4Z
📊: https://t.co/B3jVMtYpQ7#BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/kzeKUpRs5p

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) April 19, 2022

Whelan led the Riders into the locker rooms after a 13-point second quarter. The score was 53-44 at halftime, leaving Leicester in a commanding position. 

The Riders started the second half testing a new lineup, playing three guards in Crandall, Mackenzie and Whelan. Mackenzie rewarded his coach’s decision, draining a three to get things underway.

Another three from the Bucknall graduate five minutes into the third gave the Riders a 14 point advantage, their biggest of the night. The Rocks, led by six quick points from Harris, chipped away at the lead, cutting it to single digits. However, the Riders remained in control, responding to Glasgow’s blows with big shots of their own. 

Leicester ended the third with a 13-0 run, led by eight more points from Walker. His three ended the quarter with the Riders leading 83-61. 

Walker comes up with the and-1 for the three-point play!

📺: https://t.co/wjeD9FiB4Z
📊: https://t.co/B3jVMtYpQ7#BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/FJfyTT1Te8

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) April 19, 2022

With Leicester up 23 in the fourth quarter, Loughborough and Charnwood’s Louie Jordan and Evan Walshe checked into the game to log key BBL minutes. Both got on the scoresheet quickly, with Walshe driving to the hoop before making a tough finish for two, before Jordan drained a three from the corner. 

Walshe with the spin move inside and finishes for two!

📺: https://t.co/wjeD9FiB4Z
📊: https://t.co/B3jVMtYpQ7#BritishBasketball pic.twitter.com/uyzCJJnLAm

— Leicester Riders (@RidersBball) April 19, 2022

The Riders return home for the league finale on Friday. They face the Plymouth City Patriots, hoping to maintain their rhythm entering the postseason.

In a shock move for the start of April, Riders are delighted to announce the addition of former Glasgow Rocks star & GB captain Kieron Achara MBE.

Achara, 38, retired in 2019 after a third spell with the Rocks, but has come out of retirement to join the Riders in a last bid to pick up some BBL silverware.

It is believed the Scot will suit up for tonight’s game in Newcastle as well as holding down his media duties for Sky Sports.

“I have always wanted to join the Riders,” commented Achara. “They have secretly been my favourite BBL team and they look on course to win another trophy or two.”

“I spoke to Ali Fraser and he told me about the good old times when he won silverware. I thought I should go get myself some.”

“Some people may call me a glory hunter and they would be right.”

After negotiations with the BBL, the Riders, who have been chasing Achara since 2015, were able to extend the player signing deadline to April 1st.

Retro kits, top tunes and special guests are all in store for the Leicester Riders & Manchester Giants remaining league games against each other.

Leicester’s trip to Belle Vue, Manchester will have a twist on Sunday 13 March 2022 with both teams playing in a version of a RETRO kit from years’ gone by (tickets available here).

Both teams will also be in RETRO kits for the return fixture in Leicester on Friday 8 April 2022 (tickets available here).

Riders have played a number of games in special kits before having worn a St Patrick’s Day, Diwali and Neon jersey in years’ gone by. This time around Riders will wear a blue and orange number throwing this back to early 2000s!

Watch out for more announcements and the kit reveals soon!

Riders home game with Bristol Flyers has been selected to feature on Sky Sports. As such the game on 25 March 2022 will now tip-off at 7.30pm.

With an international break this weekend, Riders are back in league action away at Bristol on Saturday 5th before returning to the Morningside versus Cheshire on Friday 11th – tickets available here.

Coach Rob Paternostro is named as the BBL Coach of the Month for January 2022, back-to-back after winning the award in December.

Geno Crandall was also named the BBL Player of the Month for January 2022, he last won the award in November.

Riders 10-0 start in the league continued through January, and with the BBL Cup Final win on Sunday, the Riders duo were firm favourites to win the awards. The cup win was Paternostro’s 15th trophy for the club he has led to be the most successful over the last decade.

Riders remain by far the league’s best defence, a Paternostro hallmark, conceding just 68 points per game and holding opponents to a stifling 39.5% from the field; but they are also prolific offensively, averaging 94 points per game and leading the BBL in both field goal percentage and three-point percentage.

Meanwhile, Crandall led the scoring in the final with a game-high 26 points, he scooped up the BBL Cup Final MVP award to add to his collection. Earlier in the month Crandall finished the Phoenix game with a first triple-double in his BBL career of 13 points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists.

For the month, he was the only player to average a double-double, of 12.4 points and 10.0 assists, along with 7.2 rebounds and 3.2 steals per outing.

Head Coach Rob Paternostro has been named the Coach of the Month for December by the BBL having posted a perfect month.

Riders won all five of their games in December, taking them to 8 and 0 in the BBL Championship and a BBL Cup Semi Final win over London Lions.

As a result, Paternostro will lead out his team in the BBL Cup Final for the fourth time – against Manchester Giants at the end of this month.

Riders ranked #1 for points for averaging 98 over the month and ranked #1 for points against averaging 75.6. Riders biggest win of the month came over Plymouth City Patriots when they ran out 106-60 winners.

Riders have now picked up 3 of the monthly awards, Geno Crandall and Marc Loving winning the Player of the Month award for November and December respectively.

Marc Loving has been named the Player of the Month for December! Riders had a perfect month with five wins from five games including two wins over London Lions in the BBL Cup Semi finals.

In the league, Loving hit 20 points against Glasgow Rocks, 14 a piece against Newcastle Eagles and Plymouth City Patriots. Over both legs in the Semi Finals, Loving totalled 28 points and 18 rebounds and 6 assists.

For the month Loving averaged 15.2 points and 8.6 rebounds a game, 3.8 assists a game.

With a fine start in both league and cup, Loving has been a perfect addition to the Riders line-up this season. The award is the second Riders player this season to pick-up the honour, Geno Crandall having won it in November.

Leicester Riders are thrilled to announce Hard Yards UK as their official sock provider.

Leicester Riders and Hard Yards UK both share the same belief that marginal gains are critical in elite sport to maintain a competitive edge and this partnership demonstrates their commitment to continuous improvement and innovation within their respective fields.

“It’s fantastic for us to partner with Hard Yards UK. They have a quality product and we are really enthused to be able to offer our players high quality socks,” commented Riders Managing Director Russell Levenston.

“Hard Yards UK are a forward-thinking company and we are a progressive club very much at the forefront in British Basketball. So it’s a great partnership for us.”

James Barker, director of Hard Yards UK, said: “We’re delighted to partner with Leicester Riders, one of the UK’s most successful basketball teams, as their official sock provider. This partnership highlights the quality of Hard Yards’ products and their considerable benefit for elite athletes to enhance performance, maximise power transfer and move with precision.”

The initial tranche of £7 million will ‘transform’ the League helping to unlock ‘huge untapped potential’ for basketball across the UK.

The British Basketball League (BBL) has today announced that Miami based alternative investment firm, 777 Partners, has invested £7 million in return for a 45% stake in the professional league.

Today’s announcement marks the initial phase of funding at £7 million, serving as a defining moment for the future of basketball in the United Kingdom. The investment will be used to deliver an ambitious plan that will span the entirety of the sport – from community grassroots through to the overall infrastructure of the elite game in the UK.

Central to the League’s plan is the creation of a significantly enhanced leadership team – including the appointment of a new CEO – to drive the League forward. There will also be major investment in a ‘digital transformation’ strategy to improve and enhance the product and to deliver the League and its content more effectively to the sport’s digitally native audience. Further recruitment, building a sophisticated data infrastructure and the adaption of new technologies are all also key to the deployment of investment.

With regards to the impact of the investment at game-level, strategic focus will extend both on and off the court, with initiatives ranging from elevating the quality of play and investing in official and refereeing development, to the upskilling of game-day delivery teams.
Under the new ‘BBL Supports’ programme, the League’s player-first approach will be further prioritised, with players given additional support across their basketball and wider career aspirations and additional investment made in the player onboarding process and athlete welfare programmes.

Funds will also drive the introduction of new in-stadia technologies to improve the fan experience and broadcast product. Sky Sports is the current broadcast partner of the British Basketball League, showing one League match live every weekend across the season.

Under the plans the League is also targeting at least four new, high-quality franchises to be added to the League within the next five years.

Through the BBL Inspires programme, the grassroots of the game will also benefit as the League enhances its collaboration with Leicester Riders on their work across their local communities, to help inspire and develop the next generation of British basketball talent.

A significant area of future League expenditure will be dedicated to creating the infrastructure to support clubs with operational, content and marketing initiatives – helping attract new teams whilst supporting existing Clubs in continuing to build and expand their reach. This initial investment is designed to act as a catalyst to trigger further significant investments in Clubs, with the aim also of creating much improved arenas and training facilities.

The BBL is also committed to increasing its support of the women’s game, with additional resource being channeled towards the Women’s Basketball League, and to working with the National Governing Bodies to help grow all levels of the game, including the Great Britain teams. Increased commercialisation of all the sport’s key assets working in partnership is a key objective of the investment.

Basketball is the second most played team sport in the UK, with a quarter of teenagers playing at least twice a month and 47% of participants coming from a non-white background – the highest of any sport (*Source: Sport England). There are also over 8.4 million basketball fans living in the UK, demonstrating the significant interest levels there are in the sport.

Commenting on the new investment Sir Rodney Walker, chairman of the British Basketball League, said; “To state that we are thrilled to have 777 Partners come onboard – as passionate investors who share our vision – is somewhat of an understatement. We couldn’t be more delighted that, as a result of this significant injection of capital, we are now able to fast track the League’s big ambitions and unlock the huge untapped potential that we know the sport of basketball has in this country.

“Basketball is unique in its ability to reach across cultural, societal and economic divides and in its ability to engage with a young, diverse audience. There is therefore huge potential to use the transformative power of sport for the benefit of our growing audience and to increase the impact we can deliver from the grassroots to the very top of the professional game.”

He added; “Basketball and the BBL is coming out of Covid looking forward to a very positive future, thanks in no small measure to the more than £3 million of support from the Government’s Sport Survival funding. Now, with this investment from 777 Partners, we can plan for the future with confidence.”

Joshua Wander, Managing Partner from 777 Partners, said, “Basketball is undoubtedly a disruptive force to the institutions that dominate UK sport. The current barriers to entry and lack of support at all levels of the game have a disproportionate and inequitable impact on underprivileged and minority communities that stand to benefit from its potential. Observing the systemic forces inhibiting the growth of British basketball has deepened our resolve as a stakeholder. We are determined to work closely alongside the clubs and within their respective communities to ensure our investment serves to incubate the sport more broadly. We thank Sir Rodney, the board, and the clubs for the opportunity to do so.”

The move expands 777 Partners’ sports portfolio, which also includes La Liga Club Sevilla and Serie A side, Genoa, which they purchased in September of this year. 777 also owns BBL Club London Lions.

* Sport England 2018/2019 report https://www.sportengland.org/news/active-lives-children-and-young-people-survey-academic-year-201819-report-published

Guard Geno Crandall has won the league’s monthly award for November 2021 after an excellent start to the campaign that has seen him build on his Molten BBL MVP award from last year.

Crandall has been BBL All-Star 5 on five occasions this season, more than any other player and including twice in the last three weeks, he averaged 19 points, eight assists, four rebounds and two steals per outing this past month, shooting 90% at the free-throw line.

Crandall finished with 24 points in the BBL Cup quarter final versus Cheshire including a key drive-and-dish for Jubril Adekoya that won the game with just a few seconds to play.

Riders have started the league campaign perfectly with a 4-0 record in the defence of their BBL Championship title.

Leicester Riders will play London Lions at the Morningside Arena to complete the BBL Cup South qualifying on Sunday 7th November at 4pm. The teams are currently tied on 6 and 1 at the top of the South Group.

The winner will take first spot in the South Group, setting up a tie with either Sheffield Sharks or Cheshire Phoenix in the BBL Cup Quarter Final.

Riders have confirmed that the switch to the Morningside Arena means that Riders Season Tickets holders will have complimentary admission meaning that Season Ticket holders will have an extra home game on their calendar.

Game tickets are available online.

The date for the BBL Cup Quarter Final has also been confirmed as Saturday 13th November 2021 at the Morningside Arena.

Sky Sports have today announced their schedule for the new BBL championship season – games to be shown on Sky Sports Mix and Arena.

Leicester Riders will feature in the very first Sky game of the season later this month when they host Newcastle Eagles on Friday 29 October 2021, 7.30pm tip.

Riders will be back on Sky in December in the same fixture versus Newcastle on the 17th, again at the Morningside Arena.

February sees the Riders feature twice with their away game at London Lions on Friday 4th and home game against Manchester Giants on the 11th also being featured.

All other games will be streamed online via bblplayer.co.uk.

Americans Zach Jackson & Geno Crandall have been named in this weeks’ BBL All-star 5 after a weekend that saw two wins in their South-West double-header.

Jackson scored an impressive 38 points over the two games with general Geno putting up 30 points and 13 assists in the west-country.

Zach also leads the votes in the BBL Show’s Player of the Week vote making it a double-honours for our no. 21.

The Riders rounded off their preseason with a 88-80 loss to the Sheffield Sharks. After signing with Leicester during preseason, Marc Loving got his first taste of basketball on English soil. Ohio-born Loving led the team with 22 points in three-quarters of game time kicking off life in British basketball in emphatic fashion.

Loving began with a bang, scoring 12 in the first to get the Riders on the board. His highlight of the quarter: a smooth fadeaway from the free-throw line over 13-year Shark, Mike Tuck. Tuck led the game with 23 points, playing hard down low. The Sharks edged a tightly contested opening period 22-21, with former Loughborough Rider Lucien Christofis scoring to close out the quarter. 

The Riders kept it close in the second, despite an early run from the hosts which stretched their lead. Mo Walker continued his hot preseason, scoring seven in the half as he battled with new Sharks addition Marcus Delpeche in the paint. Delpeche, who averaged 13.5 points and 7.7 rebounds for the Bristol Flyers last season, was held to five points in the first half against Walker’s stifling interior defence. The Riders entered the locker room down 44-38, with Loughborough’s Victor Ndoukou’s free-throws ending the half. 

Captain Darien Nelson-Henry opened the second half explosively, throwing down a monster jam over Delpeche for a three-point play. The Penn State graduate’s highlight injected momentum into the Riders, who took a narrow lead early in the third. Loving’s offensive form continued late in the third, scoring seven in the period which ended 66-64 in the Shark’s favour. 

Delpeche fouled out early in the fourth quarter, as coach Rob Paternostro turned to his youth to close the game. With a lineup consisting of Loughborough and Charnwood prospects, Leicester fought the Shark’s BBL lineup to the final minute, with the game tied at 80 with 60 seconds on the clock. Ndoukou led the Riders in the fourth with six points, driving to the rim repeatedly and finishing strongly against tough defence.

“Victor over the four or five preseason games that we’ve played has shown us something. He’s a guy that can fill in if we need him” said Coach Rob post-game. 

The hosts hit shots down the stretch to seal the win, but were pushed all the way by the Riders’ young stars spectacularly. 

Paternostro also commented on Loving’s breakout game: “We know he has that kind of talent. He can really shoot the ball and play defence, and I think as he gets more comfortable with the system, the surroundings and the players we’re gonna see some good stuff from him”.

This fixture was the Riders final preseason outing. They tip-off their season on Friday 24th September, hosting the Bristol Flyers in the BBL Cup.

Leicester Riders have today confirmed the signing of American forward Marc Loving. Loving, who has played in the NBA G-League for Delaware BlueCoats and Agua Caliente Clippers, has flown in direct to the Netherlands for the Riders games with Donar Groningen.

The 6’9” power forward is due to make his debut in tonight’s pre-season game.

“I’m super excited to be joining the Riders this season,” commented Loving. “I am looking forward to competing for a championship this season with my new teammates.”

Head Coach Rob Paternostro commented: “We are excited to have Mark on board, he is a talented player who has competed at a very high level at Ohio State and in the NBA G-league.”

“He has good size and length, and his versatility allows him to play multiple positions which should fit into our roster very well.”

“He is an excellent shooter, with great range and with his size and length can get his shot off over defenders.”

Loving joins the 2021-22 squad as the fourth American signing alongside Darien Nelson-Henry, Geno Crandall and Zach Jackson after it was confirmed that William Lee would not be returning to the Riders this season due to personal reasons he has decided to retire. Everyone at the Riders would like to wish Will all the best for the future.

Riders tipped their preseason off with a 144-69 win in the traditional Red vs Purple matchup, where they hosted feeder club Loughborough Riders of the NBL. Mo Walker led Leicester in a dominant 27 points and 11 rebound performance, while Patrick Whelan scored 21 in his Riders debut.

For the first time in over a year, Riders fans filled the Morningside Arena to applaud the league champions on to the court. Their support was rewarded with a first glimpse of this season’s squad, with new additions Kimbal Mackenzie, Jubril Adekoya and Whelan all starting.

Whelan made a lively start to Leicester life, draining two threes in the first period to establish an early lead. The William Jewell graduate drained two threes to start the game, with the ball looking good every time it left his hands. The hosts were firing from deep in the first quarter, making five attempts to end the period up 29-23.

Loughborough kept the game competitive for significant stints. It was a two-point game midway through the second before a 19 point Leicester run closed out the half strong. Mackenzie’s no-look pass to captain Darien Nelson-Henry gave him an easy look inside to stretch the lead to 11, before five Leicester steals in the final two minutes of the half helped them to a 21 point lead entering the locker rooms.

Leicester continued to build their lead in the second half, courtesy of nine quick points from Walker. The big man went four for four to start the third quarter, showcasing his versatility by draining a shot from deep, getting easy points in transition and backing down opponents inside. 17 of Leicester’s 24 third-quarter points were scored between Walker and Conner Washington, who finished the game with 19, as they entered the final period up 89-44.

Leicester closed out the tie comfortably. Walker continued his dominance, scoring six in the fourth before checking out with six minutes left. Adekoya produced the play of the game on his Riders debut, pulling down a rebound before slinging a full-court outlet pass to Charnwood prospect Louie Jordan for an open dunk. A 25-15 fourth quarter sealed a Leicester win.

The Riders continue their preseason on Wednesday, suiting up in their annual game against USA Select at home.

British young gun Victor Ndoukou has been named to the Leicester Riders roster for the 2021-22 season.

Ndoukou, who is studying at Loughborough College, will also represent Charnwood and Loughborough Riders following on from last season.

“I’m excited to be part of the Riders roster again this season,” reflected Victor.

“Being able to compete with professional players everyday will help my development and I am grateful for the opportunity. I am really looking to push on and take my opportunities when they come.”

Head Coach Rob Paternostro commented:

“Victor is a very talented young player with good size and the ability to play inside and out.” 

“Competing against professionals everyday last season was really beneficial to  his game and we believe that he is a player that can do great things in the future.“

Riders will get their pre-season underway on September 8, before heading to the Netherlands for two games against Donar Groningen.

Leicester Riders have confirmed they will travel to Holland to face Donar Groningen as part of their pre-season.

Donar played in the Basketball Champions League qualifiers and FIBA Europe Cup last season and will act as a good test for Rob Paternostro’s men.

“Pre-season is a vital part of our preparations for the new season and we are excited to be able to head to Holland to face Groningen,” confirmed Managing Director Russell Levenston.

“These games are not only great for us ahead of the new BBL season but have acted as a good test and learning experience for us with a view to re-entering European competition in the future.”

Riders will face Donar twice on the trip on September 10 at 6.30pm (UK time) and September 12 at 1pm (UK time).

It is also expected that Riders fans will get their first opportunity to see the team at home on September 8 ahead of the trip to the Netherlands.

Riders have added combo guard Kimbal Mackenzie to their roster for the 2021-22 season.

Mackenzie, who’s been playing this summer in the CEBL alongside Rider Mo Walker and former Rider Corey Johnson, has signed a one year deal in Leicester after spending two seasons in Spain in LEB Gold.

“I’m so excited to be joining Leicester. I can’t wait to get to the UK for the first time, to get to know my teammates and the coaches, and to start building towards a championship,” commented Mackenzie.

“I’ve followed the team and heard great things about the program, coach Rob (Paternostro), and the overall culture of Leicester basketball. I’m looking forward to being a part of this winning program.”

Head Coach Rob Paternostro commented:

“We are looking forward to working with Kimbal, he is a really talented player that we have followed since his time at Bucknell. John Griffin, one of our former players coached him there and we spoke about him often. On the court and off the court we have heard great things.”

“He is a combo guard who can be very dangerous with the ball in his hands… but has also been very effective in college and in Spain at playing off the ball.”

“Kimbal has the ability to score in many ways and has a good understanding of how to read the defence in order to make plays. He has good experience in a good LEB Gold league in Spain and joins a team with a lot of experienced players.“

Guard Justin Hedley returns to the Riders for the 2021-22 season after making his debut for the club last season. Hedley who is studying at Loughborough University will be in Rob Paternostro’s twelve for this season.

“I’m excited to be a part of the Riders for another season. We’re all really looking forward to meeting with the fans again,” reflected Justin. “I’m really grateful for the opportunity that both the Riders and Loughborough University have given me.”

“Justin is a young player that continues to put the work in to improve, we have been really impressed with his work ethic,” commented Head Coach Rob Paternostro. 

“He has had a great summer working hard with our strength and conditioning team.” 

“He has great size and strength at the guard position, and has shown great ability to defend on the perimeter.”

Hedley has a dual citizenship having a British passport alongside his German heritage. Riders Managing Director Russell Levenston spoke of the partnership with Loughborough University:

“We are really happy to have Justin with us again next season. We have a great partnership with Loughborough University and we are able to provide players like Justin with a professional environment alongside his studies.”

“His attitude and work ethic last year has earned him a spot on our roster again this term.”

The 2021-22 season gets underway with two home fixtures in the BBL Cup. Riders face Bristol Flyers on Friday 24th September (7.30pm) before hosting Surrey Scorchers on Sunday 26th September at 5pm.

Riders get their defence of the BBL Championship underway with a tasty home fixture against Newcastle Eagles on Friday 29th October 2021 (7.30pm).

Riders last game of 2021 will be versus London Lions on Thursday 30th December.

Our last game of the season is a trip to Scotland when Riders play Glasgow Rocks (Sunday 24 April 2022).

The full fixture list can be found here, Season Tickets are currently on sale via our ticket office.

A new format BBL Cup sees the Riders as one of five teams in the southern group stage.

Leicester get competitive action underway against Bristol Flyers at home on Friday 24 September before a return leg on 23 October. The opening weekend also sees Riders host Surrey Scorchers on Sunday 26 September at 5pm, the trip to Surrey coming on Saturday 16 October.

Sunday 3 October sees the first road trip of the season down to Plymouth Raiders before hosting the Raiders on 24 October. Riders will host rivals London Lions on Wednesday 20 October with a trip to the capital still to be confirmed.

The bottom placed side will be eliminated from each of the groups, with the Quarter Final places determined as follows:

North Winner v South 4th
South Winner v North 4th
North RU v South 3rd
South RU v North 3rd

The Quarter Finals is a single leg on 12-14 November 2021 weekend with a two-legged semi final taking place in early December. The final will take place at the Utilita Arena Birmingham on Sunday 30 Jan 2022.

Leicester Riders can confirm the signing of American-British power forward Jubril Adekoya this morning.

6’7” Adekoya has spent most of his pro career to date in Spain’s LEB Gold playing for Huesca , Valladolid and most recently Almansa Con Afanion.

“I’m super excited to join the Riders!” commented Jubril. “I know a bit about the club as I have friends who have played in Leicester and in the BBL. I thought now was the perfect time for me to be apart of something great.”

“I can’t wait to get to work with the Riders, get to know the guys, and work with Coach Rob.”

Riders fans will be familiar with the Adekoya family, as his brother Jawad played in the BBL for Cheshire Phoenix and Plymouth Raiders.

“We are really looking forward to working with an experienced professional like Jubril,” commented Head Coach Rob Paternostro. “He has played four seasons in Spain in a good LEB Gold league, where he has shown his talents in many ways.”

“He is a versatile big who can do a little bit of everything. Offensively he can post, play off the dribble and shoot the ball from the perimeter. Defensively he has shown the ability to cover multiple positions which I believe will be very useful to our team.”

“I have really enjoyed watching him play, he has a very good feel for the game and has shown to be the type of player who will do whatever the team needs to win.”

Season tickets for the 2021-22 BBL campaign are now on open sale!

Secure your chosen seat at all Leicester Riders BBL Championship, Trophy and Cup home games for the 2021/22 BBL season!

After winning the league title last season in a challenging year we are delighted to be welcoming you back for the new campaign, we have missed you all. BBL Coach of the Year Coach Rob Paternostro has been busy putting together an exciting squad including securing the services of league MVP Geno Crandall, fan favourite Conner Washington and the high-flying William Lee.

Off the court we have been working hard to modify and alter procedures to make the Morningside Arena a COVID secure venue.

There will be no change to prices of season tickets for the 2021/22 season and we are very keen to have you all back. Those of you who renewed in the 2020/21 season will receive a gift voucher for the full value to allow you to secure your 2021/22 season ticket on a complimentary basis.

We will also provide you exclusive offers during the season both with any Riders or Arena purchases for your support in 2020/21 and for the games missed due to COVID in 2019/20 season.

Season ticket holders from 2019/20 season who did not renew for 2020/21 we would like to make that up to you, so our 2019/20 season ticket holders will receive a voucher providing a 20% discount towards a 2021/22 season ticket.

Season ticket holders are entitled to priority access on tickets at all of our other events, including pre-season, playoffs and major finals; as well as occasional exclusive offers to other events held at the Morningside Arena.

The season ticket means that you save money every game compared with full concessionary prices while guaranteeing your chosen view of the action at Morningside Arena.

Adult season tickets are priced at £270, child (U16) £50 and concession £195.

Click here to pick your seat and purchase your season ticket.

If you have any other questions please email [email protected] or call 0116 326 9700.

American Zach Jackson has made a return to Leicester Riders, signing a new deal for the 2021-22 season.

Jackson, who’s first season was cut-short last term due to injury is now fully fit for the new BBL season. Riders Head Coach Rob Paternostro is delighted to welcome Zach back to the Morningside:

“We loved working with Zach last season, he is a talented player who is very professional in his approach and is a great teammate that the guys love playing with. Unfortunately he had an injury and he wasn’t able to finish the season with us but he is healthy, motivated ,and ready to go for this season.”

“He is a player that has a real good feel for the game on both ends of the floor. He is a big wing who can score from all areas on the court.

The addition of Jackson is the eighth player to be announced by the Riders who have been active early in the summer with a host of players returning next season including fellow Americans Geno Crandall, William Lee and Darien Nelson-Henry. Conner Washington, Mo Walker and Greg Wild have also returned alongside the new signing of Patrick Whelan who was announced last week.

“I’m excited to have the opportunity to return to Leicester healthy and compete in front of the fans,” commented Zach. “Being a part of the team last year that was able to win the trophy in the regular season was special and look forward to building on that.” 

“Playing for Coach Rob really helped improve my overall knowledge of the game.”

Corey Johnson, Aaron Falzon, Ali Fraser and Mustapha Heron will not return to the Riders next season it has been confirmed this morning.

“We’d like to put on record our thanks to Corey, Aaron, Ali and Mustapha who have all contributed to a title-winning team last time out,” commented Managing Director Russell Levenston.

“Corey had two successful seasons with us and Aaron, Ali & Mustapha played their part last season. We have nothing but good things to say about all four players both on and off the court and wish them all the best for the future.”

Leicester Riders are thrilled to announce the signing of 6’5” shooting guard Patrick Whelan.

Whelan, who has spent the past three seasons at Real Murcia in Spain, is the brother of Jordan Whelan who played in the BBL last season for Manchester Giants.

The Warrington-born star is keen to get started…

“Excited to be a part of the Riders family,” said Patrick. “I’ve enjoyed following the team’s progress over the past years and I was very excited when the opportunity arose to join the team.”

“I’m looking forward to winning some games with Riders fans back in the arena.”

“Can’t wait to get to work with the guys and hopefully bring another Championship back to Leicester!”

Head Coach Rob Paternostro commented:

“We are looking forward to working with Patrick. He is a player we have followed the last few seasons in Spain and
we are happy to have him on board.”

“When you look his time in Spain I think one of the most impressive things is that he was with the same club for three seasons, and on a successful team that he helped win promotion.”

“We really like the energy he plays with. He is a skilled and versatile offensive player, his shooting, ball handling and passing should be welcome additions to our team.”

“His competitiveness and versatility should also give us another solid defender who can guard multiple players on the floor.”

Whelan follows the announcement of the return of Conner Washington earlier in the week and is the Riders seventh signing of the summer ahead of the new BBL season.

Great Britain international guard Conner Washington has committed his future to the Riders having signed a new three-year deal that keeps him at the Morningside Arena until the summer of 2024.

Washington, who has made 246 league appearances for the Riders, won his eleventh trophy with the club last year, his fourth league title.

“It feels good to be signing back with the Riders. I’m privileged to still be healthy and playing basketball and I am really excited about being able to play in-front of our legendary sixth man again, it’s been a long time coming!” Commented fan favourite Washington.

“Being in a secure and comfortable place for my family is a big part of why I committed again to the Riders! I am blessed to be able to play with completely freedom.”

“Last season was another great season for us as a squad. We had a team of great people which made the basketball a lot smoother… not to mention the league MVP who I get to battle everyday in practice, pushing me to be a better player. Mostly defensive if you have ever seen Geno play!”

“Next season will be another year of challenges no doubt. We won’t have the exact same team but a we have a strong core to build on. It’s another season for me of appreciating basketball and enjoying doing what I love!”

Head Coach Rob Paternostro, who first signed Conner ten years ago, is delighted to have Conner signed up…

“We are thrilled to have Conner commit to us for another three years. I’m sure the Riders fans will be thrilled to see him back at the Morningside Arena next season.

“He is a guard who is effective in many ways and on both sides of the ball. Offensively his speed and shooting ability continue to be dangerous for opponents to deal with and he is capable of playing on the ball or off which gives our offence plenty of options and flexibility.”

“Defensively he is well respected as a player that can make a huge impact on that end of the floor. He has always been a guy that enjoys defence and that has played a vital role in our success throughout the years.”

“It’s always great to work with Conner, he is a player that will do anything to help the team win and is a great teammate who has been a winner in this league many times over.”

Riders have announced this morning that popular forward Jamell Anderson won’t be returning next season. Anderson, who was named in the BBL’s defensive team of the year, has spent 8 seasons in the East-Midlands since 2011.

“My time at the Riders has been so eventful, I’ve played alongside some of the best players to play in the BBL in the last ten years. The likes of  Geno Crandall as of recent. Not only have so many of these guys been teammates but they have become friends,” reflected Jamell.

“The respect I hold for guys like Anthony Rowe and Barry Lamble for their kindness and friendship as I was getting settled into my professional career with the Riders is something I’ll never forget.”

“The list goes on for high-level players that I’ve been fortunate to compete with and Coach Rob has so much if not everything to do with attracting that talent. He’s a straight up coach and always wants to create a team not only of talent but of good people and I owe him a lot for that.”

“I’ve been there through tough times and thankfully more so through successful times, it’s been an honour to play alongside so many good people but also to achieve so much. “

“Each year I asked more of myself and whether that was reflected in my stats or what everyone thought of me as a player or a person I was always striving to improve. I’m thankful for the environment I was given to grow both on and off the floor.”

Anderson played 237 league games for the Riders scoring 1462 points, placing him 6th in the all-time list for Riders stats*.

“First of all I’ll miss the people, I made some truly great friendships from players to staff to fans and even to the people of Leicester. I remember being recognised for the first time back in 2012 as a Riders player and people saying they loved our team and it felt great to be a part of that.”

“I’ve always tried my best to represent the club with professionalism and hard-work. When I look back at the success I’ve been part of and the friendships I’ve made it’s definitely a major part of my life and career which if I had the chance I’d definitely lace em up with those boys again”

Paying tribute Head Coach Rob Paternostro commented:

“It’s sad to see him go, he has been the ultimate professional. His work ethic and commitment to the team have been second to none.”

“He has been a fantastic guy to be around, a player that consistently put the work in to improve and a player that can call himself a champion.”

Managing Director Russell Levenston commented:

“Jamell has been a shining example not only to young kids from across the country but to those young players in our programme who want to follow in his footsteps and make a professional career for themselves.”

“We have nothing but good things to say about him. We’ve enjoyed some great memories together and wish him all the best for the future.”

Newly-wed Anderson is moving from the area to be with his wife, GB player Georgia Anderson (née Jones).

*According to stats on record.

The 2021 BBL League Champions Leicester Riders and accountants Torr Waterfield have agreed to extend their partnership for another three years in a wide-ranging sponsorship deal.

As well as winning the BBL Championship for the fifth time in May, Riders have highly successful women’s, underage and student programmes, and deliver a range of community projects via their charity, the Leicester Riders Foundation, at the Morningside Arena, the home of the Riders.

As an element of the partnership, the Victory Stand at the Morningside Arena will be renamed the Torr Waterfield Stand, and the Leicester accountants’ corporate hospitality and branding arrangements will be extended to include access to a wide range of sporting and entertainment events at the Arena.

Torr Waterfield have been providing the Riders and their associated companies with general financial advice as well as their accounting and payroll services, over recent years and those services will be extended further still.

Mark Torr, Director and senior Partner at Torr Waterfield, is delighted to continue working with the Riders and the Arena, “We are very pleased to extend our partnership with the Riders, who are national champions and committed to excellence, player development and community engagement.”

“We are very impressed with all the work they do in the community and the way there are developing the Morningside Arena into a leading facility with top class events, as well as community sport.”

“The number of major sports and entertainment events coming to Leicester in the next year, thanks to the work of staff at the Arena, is very exciting for the city, and Torr Waterfield are delighted to help with the growth of the club.”

Riders Chairman Kevin Routledge was also excited to extend the partnership,

“The Riders, Foundation and Arena have just come through the most challenging time in our history, and with the support of Torr Waterfield, and thanks to the hard work of staff, we have continued to perform and deliver our services and games, whilst transforming the Arena into one of the most flexible and safe venues in the country.”

“We see great opportunities ahead and having a partner like Torr Waterfield on board will make it possible for Riders and the Arena to recover, develop further and continue to be successful at a national level. We have further exciting plans which we will announce soon and having this level of expertise and support from Torr Waterfield is vital to our future development.”

The British Basketball League (BBL) has become the first national professional sports organisation in the UK to launch a wellbeing hub for its community.

The pioneering platform, developed for the BBL by tech company Frog Systems, uses videos of people sharing their life experiences of issues such as depression and racism to signpost organisations and resources that offer help.

The free-to-use online BBL Community Wellness Hub was launched with the help of players Tayo Ogedengbe, Drew Lasker, and Darien Nelson-Henry who have contributed their own videos to the platform.

The BBL Community Wellness Hub, which can be accessed at www.bblinspires.co.uk, was developed during the Covid-19 pandemic in response to the impact on the mental and physical wellbeing on communities.

It contains video clips from players and officials from clubs in the BBL sharing their experiences and highlights information and organisations where the basketball community can go to get help. Users can search for information about mental and physical wellness, diversity, equality and inclusion, and personal development and financial management. They can also look for community programmes and volunteering opportunities with the sport in their area.

The platform is the first step in a series of initiatives planned by the BBL to improve welfare provision ahead of the 2021/2022 season which are being spearheaded by former Great Britain captain Kieron Achara.

Keiron Achara said: “The BBL family have always believed that our communities are the backbone of our league and I’m proud that we are working together to amplify the amazing local support services and resources available to ensure our communities are getting the help they need.”

It is estimated that a million people play basketball in Britain every week making it the second most popular team sport in England, Scotland and Wales. All 11 BBL franchises are behind the platform and will add new supportive video content in the coming weeks and months.

Andy Webb, Chief Operating Officer of the BBL, added: “This is a proud moment for us to be the first national sports body to launch a platform like this to support our community. The past year has been tough for everyone – players, fans and administrators alike – and this puts us in a great position to move forward and make a positive difference.”

Sir Rodney Walker, Chairman of the BBL, said: “Our players and coaches do a huge amount of work in their local communities. We hope the BBL Community Wellness Hub will add another layer of support by linking our thousands of fans with advice and support around the challenges they face.”

While those who use the platform cannot be identified, the anonymised data it produces will be used by the BBL to identify where it can improve the community support it offers.

Phil Worms, CEO of Frog Systems, said: “Like all sports, basketball has a duty of care to those who play, work in and support the game. We have worked closely with the BBL to produce a platform that will help them make important decisions about where they direct their support and resources in the future.”

After a successful first season in the BBL, high-flying William Lee will get to play in front of the Morningside Arena crowd next season having signed a new one year deal. Lee, who made the BBL defensive team of the season, impressed for his aerial ability and defensive qualities which saw him average 1.3 blocks a game.

“I’m excited to return to Leicester to give the fans what they deserve – which is more trophies and to be able to watch us live!” Commented Lee.

“We can’t wait to have the fans behind us and pack out the Morningside Arena. I’ve heard about the game-night atmosphere in Leicester and I’m looking forward to experiencing it next season.”

Lee becomes Riders fifth announcement of the summer having already announced the return of MVP Geno Crandall, club captain Darien Nelson-Henry, Mo Walker and academy graduate Greg Wild.

“William had an excellent season and we are excited to bring him back for year two,” reflected Coach Rob Paternostro.

“His rebounding and shot blocking were a vital part of our defence, and offensively he was a versatile player who made many big plays in big games.”

“William is a player that can play in many different spots on the floor which was very beneficial to our offence.”

“His athleticism is high level , he makes high flying plays on both ends of the floor that surely will get the fans out of their seats with excitement .. what was impressive to me was his feel for the game. He is a player that does so many winning things for a team that doesn’t always show up in the box score.”

Leicester Riders have secured the signature of Canadian-born centre Mo Walker who has signed a new two-year deal, taking him to the end of the 2022-23 season.

“Obviously the last two seasons were very tough on Mo, two difficult injuries, but we were very happy to see him recover and make it back for the end of the season,” reflected Coach Rob Paternostro.

“He worked hard with his rehab and has shown a real commitment to getting back on the floor and producing again.”

Walker suffered two season ending injuries the last two seasons but, with the support of the Riders Sports Science staff, made a return to court earlier than scheduled in the May Madness Play-offs.

“Everyone knows that if he is healthy he is a real handful for any defense.”

“His size and strength can be very tough to deal with in the low post, but he also possesses a nice feel for the game and is a very skilled big.”

“He is a great teammate who has shown real leadership with a lot of our young players over the past two seasons, we believe his leadership will be beneficial to any team we put out on the floor.”

Walker attended University of Minnesota where he played for the Golden Gophers for five seasons. He scored a career-high 26 points against Penn State in one of his last games as a Golden Gopher. Following his collegiate career, Walker joined the Orlando Magic in the NBA Summer League before heading overseas to continue his professional career.

Mo has experience playing in Italy, Latvia, and France, as well as his time in the UK. Riders fans were first familiar with his talents when playing for the Worcester Wolves, where he averaged 18 points, 10 rebounds, and two assists per game.

Walker will be in action this summer as he prepares for the new BBL season with Canadian CEBL side Guelph Nighthawks, starting on 28 June, alongside Corey Johnson.

Riders Captain Darien Nelson-Henry is looking forward to another year in Leicester next term.

Having signed a two-year deal last July, the American big who will be back for his third season, is also studying for his Masters degree at the Business School at Loughborough University.

“I am extremely excited to be coming back to the Riders for the 2021-22 season,” commented Darien.

“With hopefully a solid core unit returning, the experience of last season on missing out on some of the titles will drive our hunger and make us more determined to work hard this off-season.”

“I consider myself and the team to be very privileged to play under Coach Rob’s leadership again next season. He’s a great coach and next season is shaping up to be another successful year for the club.”

Captain Nelson-Henry led Riders to the League Title last year, a season where he was named in the BBL team of the year.

League MVP and star American guard Geno Crandall will return to the Riders next season!

Crandall lit up the BBL this season winning the league, journalist’s association and club’s MVP awards.

“I’m excited to be coming back to the Riders next season,” commented Crandall.

“I have loved my time here and I can’t wait to play for the Riders again, this time with fan support at the arenas. I found a home in Leicester, the club, teammates and staff made me feel so welcome.”

“I’ll be working hard this summer to improve my game and be ready again for the new season.”

“We feel like we have unfinished business as a team and we’ll be doing all we can to put some more silverware in the cabinet for this club.”

“I’ve loved playing for Coach Rob and he’s a big factor in me returning to play. He’s a players’ coach and has given me the tools to be successful this past season. I can’t wait to get going again.”

After leading Leicester Riders to a fifth BBL Championship title, Geno became the second player in Riders history to win the MVP. He did it by 10 clear votes of second placed DeAndre Liggins.

The 6’4″, 24-year-old , Minneapolis-native joined Leicester in the summer after a season in the Czech Republic, and was previously a two-time All-Big Sky second team selection at the University of North Dakota before graduating from the powerhouse Gonzaga University.

Crandall had nine double-doubles in BBL Championship play, which was third among all players, and was close to a triple-double on numerous occasions. He had a season high of 29 points and 15 assists in a 116-109 overtime victory over Manchester Giants at the Morningside Arena.

Alongside the MVP trophy, he was named in the Molten BBL Team of the Year, picked up a Molten BBL Player of the Month award in January, and made the weekly All-Star Five six times.

Leicester Riders are excited to announce a new multi-year contract with Head Coach Rob Paternostro has been agreed.

“I’m thrilled to extend my deal with the Riders. I have enjoyed everything about being the Head Coach here and am looking forward to the future,” commented Rob Paternostro.

“It’s home for my family and I. I love it here and we are all excited about the future.

“Leicester is a great city for sport, I love that about being here, the fans are knowledgeable and passionate which makes it an incredible place to work.”

Paternostro led the Riders to the League Title, his fifth while at Leicester, and 14th trophy overall for the club. He also picked up the Coach of the Year award, his fourth in the last five years.

“Rob has been a fantastic Head Coach for this club for many years. He is our most successful Head Coach and understands where we want to take this club,” commented Riders Managing Director Russell Levenston.

“It’s a big statement for the club to be able to secure his services for the next five years. We are extremely excited about working together and happy to offer him the security at our club that his record truly deserves.”

Rob took the helm at the Riders in 2008 and won his first league title in 2012-13. He won his first Coach of the Year award after transforming Riders in that initial 2008-09 season, immediately taking them from tenth to third, and they have only finished below that on three occasions in more than a decade since.

The 48-year-old native of Connecticut – who enjoyed a good playing career in the BBL as a charismatic point guard from 2000 to 2008 – has built his success on a defensive philosophy, and will have been pleased to see his team once more end the season as the BBL’s meanest defence, for the fifth completed season in a row, conceding just 76.8 points per game.

Last night Leicester Riders announced it’s award winners for the 2020-21 campaign. A huge thank you to our sponsors and partners Our Neighbourhood, Everards and Spice Bazaar along-with our individual award sponsors.

Coach of the Year – sponsored by the Trophy Parlour
Rob Paternostro

Most Improved Player of the Year – sponsored by the Loughborough University School of Business & Economics
Darien Nelson-Henry

Players’ Player of the Year – sponsored by Jelson Homes
William Lee

Coaches Player of the Year – sponsored by the Spire Hospital & Torr Waterfield
Conner Washington & Jamell Anderson

MVP – sponsored by Lumbers
Geno Crandall

American guard Geno Crandall has been named the Molten BBL Most Valuable Player for the 2020-21 season.

Crandall who has had a massive impact on the league in his debut season with the Riders led the side to its fifth League Title.

“I’m honoured to have been chosen as the MVP of the league. I want to thank Coach Rob (Paternostro) and the Riders staff for the opportunity they’ve given me this year,” commented Geno.

“Thank you to my teammates for believing in me, supporting me, picking me up every step of the way. Thank you to everyone behind the scenes with the league for doing everything they could to ensure we were able to play this season safely. Also thank you to all of the coaches who voted me into this position.”

“I don’t play the game for personal recognition, I play because I love it and the fact that that passion leads to individual success I hope inspires others to chase their own passions with the same fervour.”

“Our season didn’t end on a high note and I would have much preferred to win the final, however you never know what the future holds.”

Coach Rob Paternostro has been named the Ed Percival Molten BBL Coach of the Year for the 2020-21 season.

The Riders head coach successfully steered the team to a fifth League Title with a 24-6 record in the league. It’s also a league record sixth time that Coach Rob has picked up the trophy.

“It’s a team award and I really enjoyed working with our team, it was a great group to be around, they played unselfish basketball and competed on both ends of the floor night in and night out, but best of all were great teammates,” commented Rob.
 
“We have a great staff, so many contributed to our success this season.” 

“The league title is always special, you need to work together and support one another consistently throughout the season.”

Paternostro previously won the award in 2008–09, 2012–13, 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18.

The Morningside Arena are excited to welcome you back to meet the 2021 BBL League Champions the Leicester Riders. The Arena has completed a refurbishment and added additional facilities to reassure guests that they can confidently return to the venue they have missed.

BOOK YOUR SLOT

Join us on Wednesday 19th May for…

A soft drink/freshly brewed hot drink (included in your ticket)

Photos with the Trophy

Meet and greet the players

Autograph and photo opportunities

Exclusive merchandise offers

Grab and go snacks available

A chance to tell us your thoughts and ask any questions

One way system in operation

To maximise this offering to all, each ticket will allow for a 30 minute slot to enjoy the above. Arrival time as per ticket.

We look forward to welcome you all back to the Morningside Arena.

BOOK YOUR SLOT

The British Basketball League (BBL) and Women’s British Basketball League (WBBL) will be joining our sporting colleagues across football, cricket, rugby and others in the social media boycott this weekend from 3pm Friday 30 April through Monday 3 May.

Sport has the power to bring all communities together and, as we have experienced through the growth and camaraderie of the British basketball community, social media has the power that allows us to reach and connect with our supporters – as it does for all sports – in immediate and vital ways.
But with that power comes responsibility and the current inaction by social media companies in the face of relentless hateful and abusive attacks by cowards protected by this very inaction is inexcusable.

No one should be subject to the kind of harassment and abuse that we have seen people experience. It goes against every tenet of basic human decency and we join the calls for social media companies to do more and for the UK government to ensure the Online Safety Bill gives sufficient powers to Ofcom to ensure social media companies can be held to account should they continue to fail in their responsibilities.

We would like to recognise Bristol Flyers and the role they have played in bringing this campaign to the fore. Leicester Riders will join the BBL, WBBL and it’s clubs in this social-media boycott across all our channels to give our support to the campaign.

Leicester Riders will play Bristol Flyers over a two-legged series in the opening round of the BBL Play-offs.

Riders punched their ticket in the play-offs a while back and having won the league title this past Sunday also found out their May Madness opponent. Following a two-point win over Manchester Giants, Bristol Flyers confirmed their eighth-placed finish in the league.

As a result, they take on the Flyers over two legs, with the aggregate score determining who will advance to the final four.

The first leg will take place on Monday, May 3rd (5pm tip-off) at the Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle, whilst the second leg will take place at the University of Worcester Arena on Wednesday, May 5th (5pm tip-off).

Both games will be will be available to watch for free, LIVE on the Sky Sports YouTube channel.

MAY MADNESS ULTIMATE FAN PACK GIVEAWAY – TERMS & CONDITIONS

1- The promoter is: The Basketball League Ltd (company no. 01998309) whose registered office is at Unit E3, Leicester Business Centre, 111 Ross Walk, Leicester, LE4 5HH on behalf of Leicester Riders
2- The competition is open to residents of the United Kingdom aged 16 years or over except employees of British Basketball League and Leicester Riders and their close relatives and anyone otherwise connected with the organisation or judging of the competition.
3- There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
4- By entering this competition, an entrant is indicating his/her agreement to be bound by these terms and conditions.
5- Route to entry for the competition and details of how to enter are via https://www.facebook.com/ridersbball
6- Only 1 entry allowed per person, no bulk entries, entries from agents, third parties, organized group or entries automatically generated by computer will be accepted.
7- Closing date for entry will be 23:59 BST on Saturday 24 April 2021. After this date the no further entries to the competition will be permitted.
8- No responsibility can be accepted for entries not received for whatever reason.
9- The rules of the competition and how to enter are as follows:
Comment related to question “What is your favourite memory of Leicester Riders of all time and from this season?”. Entries can be text only, or text and image, or text and video, or video only.
Entries will be accepted as follows:
Facebook: Via comment on pinned post at the following page https://www.facebook.com/ridersbball
By mutual agreement winner will share content throughout 1 May 2021 – 16 May 2021 inclusive, of no less than two posts on all social platforms on which they have active accounts.
10- The promoter reserves the right to cancel or amend the competition and these terms and conditions without notice in the event of a catastrophe, war, civil or military disturbance, act of God or any actual or anticipated breach of any applicable law or regulation or any other event outside of the promoter’s control. Any changes to the competition will be notified to entrants as soon as possible by the promoter.
11- The promoter is not responsible for inaccurate prize details supplied to any entrant by any third party connected with this competition.
12- There will be ONE winner in total for ONE May Madness Fan Pack. The Fan Pack contents are as follows:

– Max. 5x Standard tickets for 2022 BBL & WBBL Trophy Finals
– Max. 5x Standard tickets for 2022 BBL & WBBL Cup Finals
– Max. 5x Courtside tickets for 2022 BBL & WBBL Play Off Finals
– 1x SureShot Hot Shot Unit
– 2x Molten ball
– 4x May Madness branded tote bag
– 4x May Madness branded water bottle
– 4x foam hand
– 4x May Madness branded T-Shirt (Size L)
– 8x May Madness branded stickers
– 4x May Madness branded mouse mat
– 1x Tokyo Time cap

The prize is as stated and no cash or other alternatives will be offered. The prizes are not transferable. Prizes are subject to availability and we reserve the right to substitute any prize with another of equivalent value without giving notice.
13- The winner will be chosen at random by software, from all entries received and verified by Promoter and or its agents on Sunday 25 April 2021
14- The winner will be notified by Direct Message on Facebook within 48 hours of the selection date. If the winner cannot be contacted or does not claim the prize within 7 days of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and pick a replacement winner.
15- The promoter will notify the winner when and where the prize can be collected / is delivered.
16- The promoter’s decision in respect of all matters to do with the competition will be final and no correspondence will be entered into.
17- By entering this competition, an entrant is indicating his/her agreement to be bound by these terms and conditions.
18- The competition and these terms and conditions will be governed by English law and any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England.
19- The winner agrees to the use of his/her name and image in any publicity material, as well as their entry. Any personal data relating to the winner or any other entrants will be used solely in accordance with current UK data protection legislation and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent.
20- The winner’s name will be available 28 days after closing date by emailing the following address: [email protected]
21- Entry into the competition will be deemed as acceptance of these terms and conditions.
22- This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook or any other Social Network. You are providing your information to The Basketball League and not to any other party. The information provided will be used in conjunction with the following

Privacy Policy found at http://www.bbl.org.uk/general-privacy-policy/
 

A new structure has been announced for this years’ ‘May Madness’ Play-offs with the BBL and WBBL featuring 20 games across two weeks and three venues. Sky Sports will be showing all games for free on their YouTube channel for fans in the UK with the BBL semi-finals and the BBL and WBBL Finals also aired live on Sky Sports. Fans in the UK and overseas will also be able to watch free on BBL Player.

The three central venues hosting the Play-Offs are Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle, University of Worcester Arena, and the Morningside Arena in Leicester. The series tips off on Saturday 1 May at the Vertu Motors Arena with the WBBL quarter-finals and Round 1 of the BBL quarter-finals before moving to University of Worcester Arena for Round 2 of the BBL quarter-finals and the WBBL semi-finals. The Morningside Arena will host the BBL semi-finals and the WBBL and BBL finals on Sunday 16 May.

The change in format was in response to the ongoing requirements of the Covid 19 protocols. With fans unable to return to indoor sporting events and the regular season stretched due to rearranged fixtures, condensing not only the timetable but also the venues allowed the best chance of finishing the season with a bang.

Andy Webb, COO of BBL, said “The 2020/21 season has been challenging but ultimately rewarding as all teams have stepped up to meet these challenges and play one of the most exciting and unpredictable seasons we’ve seen. Basketball fans will be treated to a fantastic end to the season and we’re delighted to bring all the games to them with Sky Sports.”

The dates of the new-look 2021 Ball Out 3×3 Tour have been confirmed.
Ball Out 3×3 and Basketball England will collaborate on an exciting expansion of the iconic 3×3 tour this summer.

‘Ball Out 3×3 in partnership with Basketball England’ will feature eight qualifying events across the country during summer, culminating in two days of finals in London.

Ball Out will return to the capital, Manchester and Birmingham – with new editions of the tour taking place in Newcastle, Leicester, Leeds and Essex for the first time.

Ball Out 3×3 in partnership with Basketball England – dates, cities and venues

Tour
17 & 18 July – London, Finsbury Park
24 July – Manchester, National Basketball Performance Centre
25 July – Birmingham, University of Birmingham
31 July – Newcastle, Vertu Motors Arena
1 August – Leicester, Morningside Arena
7 August – Leeds, Leeds Beckett University
8 August – Essex, Essex Sports Arena

Finals
14 & 15 August – London, Finsbury Park

Details about Ball Out entries will be released very soon.

Ball Out CEO Julius Josephs said:

“This is an exciting milestone in the lead up to the summer which we are very optimistic about. We have successfully constructed a national tour that will provide a unique opportunity for players to compete against 3×3 players from across the country. It’s going to be special.”

Pro basketball player and Ball Out veteran Orlan Jackman said:

“During the pandemic, a lot of people haven’t been able to get out of their homes properly, let alone play basketball. Ball Out 3×3 will be the first opportunity players will get to do what they love and compete safely! I can’t wait.”

The UK’s premier 3×3 tournament has joined forces with Basketball England as excitement builds towards the three-a-side version of the sport taking centre stage at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Streetballers from across the nation will compete in the qualifying events for a shot at making the finals.

And elite players – including professionals from the BBL, NBL and beyond – will be invited to showcase their skills, with Basketball England using the tournament as part of preparation for selecting the England men’s and women’s 3×3 teams to compete at Birmingham 2022.

Basketball England Technical and Talent manager Steve Bucknall said:

“We are hoping to see lots of talent, whether it is elite pros or streetballers, as we build towards selecting teams for Birmingham.

“We’re looking at and talking to some high-calibre players already and it will be great to see some of them in the mix in the Ball Out 3×3 events.

“Ball Out also dovetails perfectly with our aim of helping people and organisations revitalise outdoor courts and spaces in heart of communities through the next phase of our #ProjectSwish campaign. We can’t wait to get started.”

For the fifth consecutive year, winners from the Elite Men’s Ball Out Finals will earn an all-expenses-paid trip to compete in the FIBA 3×3 World Tour and the chance to win the huge cash prize.

Ball Out competition categories:

Elite Men (UK Residents Only)
Wheelchair Basketball
Recreational Men (UK Residents Only)
Women
U18 Men/Women
U16 Boys
U14 Boys
U14 Girls

Glencar have agreed to extend their partnership as a key sponsor for the remainder of the 2021 season.

After a successful initial sponsorship activation with the Riders back in December for our first game on Sky Sports, Glencar have agreed to support the club and it’s pathway for the remainder of the season.

Glencar are an expanding construction company specialising in the industrial, logistics, distribution, manufacturing, life science and pharmaceutical sectors.

Commenting on the sponsorship, Glencar Managing Director Eddie McGillycuddy said: “Glencar is fully committed to corporate social responsibility, particularly in the communities in which we work. We see our role as being an active and supportive partner working in close co-operation and this continued partnership with Leicester Riders is a perfect example of that.”

Also commenting, Leicester Riders’ Managing Director Russell Levenston said:

“After the hugely successful activation for our Sky Sports game against Bristol in December, we are very happy that Glencar have agreed to continue to support the club for the remainder of the season and we are also discussing a multi-year deal to help support our pathway and community programme.”

“As a club we really value our community, the player pathway and the winning culture that we have created. There is a perfect synergy between what we are doing and Glencar’s own sense and spirit of community engagement and development initiatives. We’re excited to be working alongside Glencar and appreciate their support and investment into our club.”

Glencar will appear on the electronic boards for tonight’s Sky Sports game as Riders take on Newcastle Eagles in a top of the table clash, 7.30 pm tip-off.

Riders new signing Mustapha Heron spoke to riders.basketball ahead of tonight’s Sky game with Worcester Wolves.

“I’m amped to be joining the team! It feels great to finally be back to playing basketball,” commented Heron who will make his professional debut with the Riders.

“As a rookie coming in I’m just ready to get to work and bring another winning mindset aboard.”

“The only thing I’m not happy about is fans not being able to actually see us in person at the moment but I’m still excited for the unbelievable support!”

The Connecticut native joins the Leicester roster with the Riders placed in first spot at 13-1 in the BBL championship.

Leicester Riders have acted swiftly to add American Mustapha Heron to their table-topping squad.

The Connecticut-born player started his college career at Auburn where he scored in double figures in every game but one in his freshman year, leading the team in scoring with 15.2 points per game and rebounding with 6.1 rebounds per game. At the end of the 2016-17 season, he was named to the SEC All-Freshman team.

Heron was selected as the SEC Men’s Basketball Player of the Week for weeks 9 and 12 during his second season at Auburn, averaging 16.4 points and 5.3 rebounds per game as a sophomore.

After making the switch from Auburn to St. John’s, Heron helped lead the team to its first NCAA tournament since 2015, averaged 14.6 points per game as a junior, shooting 40.3 percent from beyond the arc.

“I have followed Mustapha for a long time,” revealed Rob Paternostro. “He is a big time talent on both ends of the floor and is a versatile wing with good size and strength.” 

“He can play multiple positions on offence and defence, and has shown the ability to make plays from many different spots on the court.”

“We are from the same city, and everyone who I have ever spoken to in Waterbury has nothing but great things to say about him both on and off the court .”

“We are really excited to work with him and believe he will fit in well with the group we have.”

Leicester, who sit 13-1 in the BBL championship, decided to make a switch after it was revealed Zach Jackson will be out for the season with injury.

“It’s tough to lose Zach,” reflected head coach Rob Paternostro.

“Our team is playing with a nice rhythm at the moment so this will be challenging for the group. Zach has been great to work with, over the last few months he has been struggling with his injury which has limited what he can do, but he still has been a winning player / teammate, who has done so much for the group. We will miss him.”

The Riders organisation would like to wish Zach all the best in his recovery and hope to see him back in a Riders shirt at some point in the future.

The British Basketball League (BBL) have had significant funding confirmed in the latest round of funding from the Sports Winter Survival Package.

This is the second tranche of funding to be announced from the Government’s £300 million Sport Winter Survival Package that is focused on helping those major spectator sports severely impacted by coronavirus restrictions survive the winter.

The funding package has allowed the BBL and WBBL to undertake the 2020/ 21 season, with the leagues playing consistently since early November behind closed doors, with the outcomes of the BBL and WBBL Cup Finals, already determined. In addition, the respective Championship campaigns are already proving evidence they will be amongst the most competitive and exciting ever.

BBL Chairman Sir Rodney Walker said:

“We were very pleased with the outcome from our negotiations, which will go a very long way to sustaining the top flight of our great game, and to sustaining our associated community programmes.”

“We know the Government recognizes the impact of basketball, and the work of many BBL WBBL Clubs, through their Foundations and Community Interest Companies, goes well beyond sport. These activities by our Clubs go to the heart of the challenges faced by our young people in our disadvantaged communities, including related to physical activity, healthy eating, education related, social cohesion and mental health.”

“This support will be very important in sustaining these programmes when the Covid pandemic is behind us. The BBL would also like to thank the hard work by various DCMS and Sport England staff, who we know worked tirelessly to get to a position that the funding provided could be properly justified.”

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said:

“We are committed to helping our treasured sports through these challenging times. And today’s announcement is more evidence of our support for them.

“This targeted funding will enable sports to keep playing and inspire many more stars of the future.”

Chair of the independent Board, Sir Ian Cheshire said:

“Following thorough conversations with each party to assess their individual needs, the Independent Board is pleased to be able to confirm a substantial package of survival funding for netball, badminton, basketball and women’s football, totalling over £10 million.

“For those confirmed as recipients of support as part of this second tranche, this funding is vital in helping keep their respective clubs and leagues operational at this time.”

Geno Crandall has won the Molten BBL Player of the Month for January after five straight league wins to join Lions at the summit of the table. Crandall’s biggest moment coming when he hit a buzzer-beating floater to secure a 75-73 home win over B. Braun Sheffield Sharks.

The 24 year-old Minneapolis native joined Riders in the summer after a season in the Czech Republic, and has been quick to establish himself as among the league’s leading point guards.

He started the month with his season high of 23 points in a narrow defeat to London Lions, and in seven games he went on to average 18 points, seven rebounds and six assists – consistently looking like one of the players most likely to register a triple-double – shooting 51% from the field and 84% at the free-throw line. Overall, Crandall is fourth in the league in assists and third in fouls drawn

He provided particular torment in back-to-back road wins over Plymouth Raiders, hitting 10-12 (83%) free throws in the first, and coming close to a huge triple-double in the second meeting with 18 points from 8-10 (80%) interior shooting, 17 rebounds and eight assists

He rounded out the month with a BBL All-Star 5 appearance after another near triple-double of 19 points, 10 assists and seven rebounds as Riders saw off Surrey Scorchers.

Crandall is back in action tomorrow night when Riders host Manchester Giants LIVE on bblplayer.co.uk, 6pm tip.

Britain’s oldest BBL franchise, Leicester Riders, has partnered with XPS, the sports coaching software which helps coaches monitor and improve team performance.

Riders, and its pathway, have access to the state of the art software and are delighted to be teaming up with XPS.

“It’s fantastic for us to be able to work with XPS throughout the whole pathway – that covers Charnwood Riders, our University programme at Loughborough, the WBBL and our BBL side,” reflected Leicester Riders Managing Director Russell Levenston. 

“It gives us consistency across our whole programme and allows us to store all our data centrally to be shared with each of our coaches. I know the coaches are finding it an invaluable tool to use and it’s really helping them in preparing for games and analysing performance.”

“We are a club that strives to be ahead of the game in terms of technology and this software is certainly part of that.”

Agust Thorkelsson – CEO Sideline Sports

“It’s a joy to work with the whole of the Leicester Riders organization. Professional demands from great coaches and staff who care passionately about the development of their players. We look forward to continuing this exciting cooperation over the next years.”

Rob Paternostro – Riders Head Coach (BBL):

“We are extremely excited to be working alongside XPS to help all our teams throughout the pathway. With our BBL side we’ve been really able to utilise the software’s functionality to assist what we are doing in preparation and analysis on court.” 

“The software is one of the leading of its kind and we are delighted to be working with XPS.” said Leicester Riders Head Coach Rob Paternostro. 

Mark Jarram – Loughborough University Head Coach (NBL/BUCS) 

“It’s been a great addition to our programme. To have pretty much everything in once place is such an asset.”

“We’ve mostly utilised the ability to have calendar and the entire team on the same page and has been invaluable to have the ability to easily remind, report and collect daily wellness data.” 

“These have led to some crucial conversations we wouldn’t necessary have been able to have before.  Would recommend it to any programme who are serious about taking things to the next level.”

Jesper Sundberg – Riders Women Head Coach (WBBL) 

“The XPS Network and the Sideline Video Analyzer have been a huge reason for our team’s success. We are using the video editor, calendar and wellness monitor daily. To have everything in one place and to be able to share information around the program with staff and players is creating lots of possibilities for us. The work we do around our player pathway has improved a lot since we started using XPS.”

If anyone is interested in using XPS with their basketball club/programme please feel free to contact Riders Assistant Coach Pablo Vazquez on [email protected].

Leicester Riders game with Worcester Wolves this Friday has now been replaced by a home fixture with Sheffield Sharks, a 6pm tip. The game, brought forward from March 31st, is now in place after Worcester postponed the scheduled fixture.

In other fixture news, Riders trip to Glasgow on 7th February will now tip-off at 3pm.

League Statement
Following the Secure Play Protocol, Worcester Wolves have postponed their games against Leicester Riders and Sheffield Sharks, scheduled for Friday 29 January and Sunday 31 January respectively, due to self-isolation requirements following personnel testing positive for Covid-19.

These fixtures will be rearranged in due course as per the Covid-19 rule amendments.

As a result of these postponements, Leicester Riders will play Sheffield Sharks on Friday 29 January at 6pm at the Morningside Arena rearranged from the original date of 31 March 2021.

We have a special treat for Riders supporters this Tuesday afternoon (26th Jan 2021)!

The club really value our supporters and know it’s not been an easy time for anyone. So how about a catch-up with two of your favourites!!!

Coach Rob Paternostro and GB guard Conner Washington are inviting all Season Ticket holders from the last two seasons to join them on a Zoom Call at 2pm this coming Tuesday.

It’s a unique opportunity to chat with Rob & Conner for an update on the season, all things Riders and a chance to ask them some questions in a Q&A session.

If you’d like to join us – simply email [email protected], we’ll also be emailing everyone with a Zoom link!

Leicester Riders will travel to London for their BBL Trophy game against the Lions on Thursday 11 February – 6pm tip.

As a result the scheduled home game on the 10th against Bristol Flyers will now take place on Tuesday 30 March, an 8pm tip.

It was also confirmed this morning that the home game against Surrey Scorchers on Sunday 31 Jan will now tip-off at 3pm.

We are delighted to confirm Leicester Riders game against Glasgow Rocks this Sunday will now be played in front of the Sky Sports cameras.

Both teams will travel to Worcester to play the game ahead of the BBL Cup Final after it has been announced that the WBBL final has been postponed.

The game will now tip-off at 1pm.

Rob Paternostro’s side will also be in Worcester on Friday night when they face Worcester Wolves at 7pm – available to watch on the Worcester Wolves YouTube channel.

TikTok has today partnered with the British Basketball League and Basketball England to launch the #BritishBasketball hashtag challenge and showcase the best of British basketball.

In what is the first ever basketball focused campaign on TikTok in the UK, the BBL and Basketball England are inviting basketball lovers to share their best basketball tricks, skills and content on TikTok. TikTok Creators will have access to exclusive behind-the-scenes content from professional clubs including Leicester Riders – @ridersbball.

“Our team have been using TikTok to share basketball content to a new audience and we’ve been encouraged to see it getting a great response,” said Basketball England Marketing and Communications director Anthony Jepson.

“We’re excited to be working with TikTok to showcase #BritishBasketball and the talent in the BBL to people not only in the UK but across the world. From the hustle of training to the thrill of gameday, TikTok allows us and our clubs a unique and direct way to share with our fans and communities. We’ve also loved seeing great basketball content shared by fans and creators from the basketball community and cannot wait to see what they share on the hashtag to celebrate the sport we love!,” said Selina Conroy, British Basketball League’s Head of Communications

Professional players including Jamell Anderson, William Lee, Geno Crandall, Conner Washington, Aaron Falzon, and Corey Johnson are also on the platform and all set to be giving an insight into what it’s like being a pro basketball player in the UK.

“We’re seeing great videos being shared by fans, content-makers and teams across the sport and would encourage everyone who loves the game in Britain, whether your thing is NBL, BBL, the national teams or up-and-coming young talent, to use the hashtag to celebrate it,” Jepson said.

With more than 31 billion video views, #basketball has cemented itself as one of the most popular sports on TikTok and #BritishBasketball is on the rise with numerous clubs from the BBL joining the platform.

Do you love basketball and want to show off your best slam dunks? Join in the fun and post your videos on #BritishBasketball.

With ongoing technical work at Plymouth Pavilions, a decision has been made not to live stream the game on BBL Player platform. Instead the game will be available for FREE on the Plymouth Raiders facebook page.

We value the Riders support as ever and hopefully the solution agreed with Plymouth & the league allows for you, our loyal supporters, to watch the game this evening – tip is 7.30pm.

We will also be keeping our twitter page @ridersbball up-to-date with all the usual updates throughout the game.

Next week, service will be back to normal with a double-header to look forward to. Worcester on Friday 22nd, which will be available to watch for FREE on their YouTube page. Saturday’s home game with Glasgow Rocks will be available on bblplayer.co.uk .

In accordance with the BBL Secure Play protocols and Covid-19 rule amendments, there are changes to the BBL Cup Semi-Finals scheduled for Tuesday 12 January 2021 due to Covid-19 implications.

Due to a number of players having to self-isolate, Manchester Giants are unable to fulfil their fixture against London Lions and have unfortunately had to forfeit the game. The forfeiture means London Lions have an automatic bye to the Final on 24 January.

In a related move, with Manchester unable to fulfil their fixture, the semi-final between Leicester Riders and Newcastle Eagles will now be held at the Morningside Arena on Tuesday 12 January. The game will tip-off at 5pm and shown live on BBL Player. The venue was decided via a remote random draw by the League central office with representatives from Leicester and Newcastle present to witness the draw.

Riders game against Bristol Flyers, postponed from December, will now take place on Wednesday 10th February 2021 at 7pm.

Last time the sides met in front of the Sky Sports cameras, Leicester winning 85-73.

Our final league game versus the Flyers will come at the end of March (27th) down in Bristol.

Following consultation with the BBL, the four BBL Cup Semi-Finalists have come to an agreement to amend the format for the BBL Cup Semi-Finals due to fixture pressures due to COVID-19 implications.

The changes are:

• Moving from two-legs to single-leg.
• Playing both games in one central venue
• Playing both games on the same day

Therefore the BBL Cup Semi-Finals have been agreed as follows:

Date: Tuesday 12 January 2021
Venue: National Basketball Performance Centre, Manchester

Game 1: Leicester Riders v Newcastle Eagles – 5:00pm
Game 2: London Lions v Manchester Giants – 8:00pm

Both games will be broadcast live via BBL Player.