Squad Update: Leicester Riders announce the departure of Brittany Hodges from their 2024/25 roster.
The Club have decided to part ways with Hodges, who joined the Riders in the summer.
We would like to extend our thanks to Brittany for her period with the Club as a valued member of our team, and we wish her the best for her future endeavours.
The dates for Leicester Ridersâ two-legged SLB Cup Semi-Final have been confirmed.
Leicester Riders have advanced to the SLB Cup Semi-Final after defeating Manchester Basketball on Wednesday to set up a two-legged encounter with Surrey 89ers.
The winner on aggregate will advance to the SLB Cup Final at the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham on Sunday, March 9, to face either Sheffield Sharks or Bristol Flyers.Â
Surrey 89ers will host the first leg at the Surrey Sports Park on Friday, February 7 (7.30 pm tip-off), before the return fixture at Mattioli Arena on Sunday, February 9 (3 pm).Â
Please note the SLB Cup semi-final is included for season ticket holders.
Tickets for the home leg of the SLB Cup Semi-Final are on sale now! Get them here.
SLB CUP SEMI-FINAL DATES
Away Leg â Friday, February 7 (7.30pm tip-off)
Home Leg â Sunday, February 9 (3pm tip-off).
Leicester Riders can confirm a change to our upcoming schedule.
We regret that our SLB Championship fixture against Caledonia Gladiators set to take place on Friday, January 24, 2025 has been postponed.
Red weather warnings have been announced in Scotland due to the incoming Storm Eowyn, therefore the game has been postponed on safety grounds.
A new date for the fixture will be announced in due course.
We appreciate the understanding and support of our fans, and will provide further updates as soon as possible.
Leicester Riders fell to London Lions 91-71 on the road in the Super League Basketball Championship.
The Riders, down 19 in the first half, cut into the deficit to make it a four point game in the fourth quarter. But London found form late to see off the attempted Leicester comeback.
Charles Thompson led Leicester with a 14 point double double, sparking the fightback in the third with buckets at the rim. He was backed by 11 points from Ethan Wright off the bench who hit momentum swinging threes throughout.
Londonâs Sean Flood made key baskets in the fourth quarter to bring the win home for London. He scored 15 off the bench including two triples. Aaryn Rai led the Lions with 17 points and 10 rebounds.
The game sees Leicester lose top spot in the League standings, falling to a 9-4 record.
Duelling out a tightly fought first quarter
London had the best of the opening stages with their interior presence, with Rai leading them to a 10-7 start with two buckets in close. The Riders, who struggled on the offensive boards on Friday against Caledonia Gladiators, suffered the same issues early by giving up four offensive rebounds in the first six minutes.
Leicester, whose leading scorer on the season Zach Jackson took an early seat with two quick fouls, bit back from range, as Spencer Johnson and Wright connected from three. The triples got the Riders in rhythm as they snatched the lead from London.
But veteran forward Ovie Soko found his way to the foul line continually in the opening period on his way to 8 points, and the Lions led 20-19 after one.
Stuckman leads London run in second
London took control of the tie in the second quarter. Soko started the run with another finish inside, and added another five to his tally in a 10-0 start to the period. Tanner Stuckmanâs score made it 32-19 to the hosts.
Wright broke the scoring drought with a corner three for his 8th points of the afternoon, but that was met by Stuckman who hit a triple from the wing then a four point play on Thompson. The former Gladiator had 8 in the period.
Thompson fought back on the other end with an and-one play followed by a finish for two to try and inject some momentum into the Riders. They increased the pace in order to get looks earlier in the shot clock, but couldnât connect frequently enough to chip into the London lead.
The first half ended 49-33, with Thompson scoring the final point of the second at the foul line.
Abercrombie four point play triggers Riders fightback
Riley Abercrombie came gunning out the break with a four point play to cut it to 12. Thompson followed with an and-one, and it was a single digit game one minute into the third.
Despite Sokoâs continued aggression at the rim bagging him another 2 points, Leiecster got themselves back into the game, Abercrombie again drawing a foul from behind the line to make the score 52-45.
Ade Adebayo got London back on the rails with success down low. He led a Lions run to put them back up 8. Duke Shelton ended the third at the foul line, and the sides entered the final period with London leading 65-59.
London run up score late
Shelton got the fourth underway at the rim to cut it to four. But Ciaran Sandyâs corner three and a Flood and-one gave London the edge with 7:46 left up 10. Flood weaved his way to the rim next time down the floor for another two, forcing a Riders timeout.
Wright, again, was the one to try and swing momentum back into Leicesterâs favour with a three, but Stuckman got to the line next time down to quiet the visitors. Flood hit another three from the wing to make it a 14 point affair.
The Riders kept grinding, but the deficit was too great late in the fourth, and Leicester fell to London for the first time this season.
The Riders return to action on Wednesday for the SLB Cup Quarter-Final on the road to Manchester Basketball.
Leicester Riders and London Lions are set to engage in a top of the table showdown in the capital tomorrow.
The 9-3 Riders, who snatched the top spot in the Championship on Friday, will take the floor of the Copper Box Arena to defend their pedestal in first position against the 9-4 London Lions.
Leicester are undefeated against the reigning British basketball champions in three games so far this season, but face the tallest task so far in this fixture.
Meanwhile London looks to bounce back from two straight defeats in order to get their season back on the rails.
Hereâs all you need to know about this heavyweight clashâŠ
Fixture information
London Lions vs Leicester Riders
Super League Basketball Championship
Copper Box Arena, London
4 pm
Table topping Riders
An 84-75 home win against Caledonia Gladiators saw the Riders go seven straight home games undefeated, and top of the table for the first time this season.
After Gladiatorsâ guards Patrick Whelan and Teddy Okereafor made tough shots throughout the first half, Leicesterâs league leading defence locked in to hold Caledonia to 10 points in the third quarter and get out to a lead.
Charles Thompsonâs defensive dominance continued with 3 blocks in the game, and Australian sharpshooter Riley Abercrombie won Player of the Game for the second straight game with a season-high 27 points.
Abercrombieâs shooting has been the difference in Leicester’s last two games. But like Thompson, his shot swatting has been equally impressive as the team continues to make its name as an intimidating interior presence.
Leicester head to the Copper Box having won eight of their last nine in the League- but only three of those games were away from home. Theyâll look to carry their home form to London to take advantage of a London side which has been struggling for offensive output in their last two appearances.
Lions in need of bounce back game
London, who crashed out of the Cup last week to the Surrey 89ers in the Quarter-Final, lost their status as the league leaders by losing to Newcastle Eagles in the North East 74-67. It was a closely contested battle from wire-to-wire against a formidable opponent on the road, but cold deep shooting saw them go 3-17 from deep in the low-scoring affair.Â
Sean Flood hit all three off the bench, leading London with 14 points. Their leading scorer on the season, Aaryn Rai, hit big buckets late to keep it a game, but the Trophy Finalists got over the line against the Lions.
Londonâs defence kept them in the tie while in the midst of a tough shooting performance. Like Leicester, theyâve leaned on their defence all season to rank third in points allowed per game. Their big man pairing of Jaiden Delaire and Alen Hadzibegovic have been huge contributors to this, combining for 2.9 blocks per outing.
But offensively, theyâll need the shooters touch at home which went missing on the road last time out should they want to score on the best defence in Super League Basketball.Â
Previous meetings
These sides, who shared a Trophy group at the start of the season, have met three times so far with the Riders coming away with a win on each occasion.
The first meeting was in London, and Leicester dominated with an 89-66 win led by Jaylin Hunterâs 21.
The second game was a dead rubber at the end of the group, with neither side playing for anything tangible. But Leicester won to go undefeated through the group phase, this time Zach Jackson led the team with 16 in a 76-62 win.
The most recent meeting was the Ridersâ last outing of 2024, and the sides battled out a nail-biter in Leicester. Abercrombieâs late three from the top was the dagger in an 84-75 win, which saw Ethan Wright go off for 21 off the bench.
Where to watch
The game will be streamed live on DAZN, starting at 3:50 pm.
Leicester Riders battled out for an 85-74 win at home to the Caledonia Gladiators, led by Riley Abercrombie’s season high scoring night.
He went off for 27 points, going 5-8 from three in a red hot shooting night. He and Spencer Johnson went off from deep late, in what was a closely fought contest until the fourth.Â
Leicester trailed in the third quarter as Caledoniaâs veteran backcourt of Patrick Whelan and Teddy Okereafor hit big shots all night. Whelan played 40 minutes and scored 17, but Trevond Barnes led the visitors off the bench with 22 points in 25 minutes.
Leicester shot 52% from the field and 46% from three in an efficient offensive display. Zach Jackson backed Abercrombie with 16, and Charles Thompson continued his defensive dominance with 3 blocks and 14 points.
They went top of the League with the win and London Lionsâ loss in Newcastle, ahead of the Riders facing the Lions on the road on Sunday.
Riders hot start met with Gladiators response
Abercrombie, fresh off his Player of the Game performance last time out, got the Riders going with five points out the gate. He was fouled on a three for a trip to the line, then slammed one down on the break after a Jaylin Hunter steal.
The Riders were on target early, scoring 10 in three minutes, but the Gladiators kept pace through the sharpshooting veteran Okereafor. He drained two early threes to get Caledonia on the board.
But Leicester found separation on the scoreboard midway through the first at the foul line. Abercrombie and Jackson attacked the hoop to earn free throws and put the hosts up 16-8. Abercrombie owned the first, scoring 13 in the quarter.
Caledonia found some form through Trevond Barnes off the bench, who scored 11 in the first 10 minutes. His scoring brought it back to a four points game, as the first ended 27-23 in Leicesterâs favour.
Thompson jam takes Riders lead into half
The Gladiators came back to take the lead early in the second. Patrick Whelan, Okereafor, Theo Hughes and Princeton Onwas got to hoop for four buckets and a 32-28 lead. The Caledonia run forced a Rob Paternostro timeout.
Ethan Wright turned the tide after the timeout with a stepback three from the wing. Charles Thompson followed up with a finish inside, before Abercrombie hit a fadeaway to snatch the lead back for Leicester.
But it was a back and forth second quarter, as the visitors responded through Whelan. He hit a tough three for his 12th points, still hot following his career-high 34 points in his last outing. He hit contested buckets all period, at the rim and from range, on his way to 14 by halftime.
The Gladiators spend much of the second in a defensive zone, forcing the Riders to find answers on the offensive end. And they found success against the zone as the clock ticked towards the half with a barrage of buckets in close.
Thompson scored four quick points at the hoop, followed by Jackson who again fought to the foul line to take the lead. Thompson ended the half in style, throwing down a two-handed jam, and Leicester led 44-43 at the half.
Sharpshooting Johnson takes lid off basket
Whelanâs hot hand carried into the second half, as he hit a turnaround three from the wing. Leicesterâs defence did step up internally, however, as Abercrombie and Thompson sent away shots emphatically at the rim.
With Leicesterâs league leading defence clicking into gear, it was a low scoring start to the third. The teams combined for five points in as many minutes. The Riders forced two shot clock violations out of their opponents before taking the lid off the basket through Spencer Johnson.
The American sniper lined up his sights for a triple against Whelan to get the Riders going offensively. He followed up with another three, this time on the fastbreak following Thompsonâs third block, to make it 59-51 with 1:23 left in the third.
Abercrombie ended the third with a tightly contested three, making it 62-53 with one to play.
Riders see out win despite Gladiators resistance
Abercrombie and Johnsonâs hot hands led to two threes to start the fourth, giving Leicester a platform to see the game out. Wright drove hard to the hoop for an and-one play three minutes in with the Riders having found the keys to unlock the Caledonia zone.
Barnes kept the Gladiators in contention however, pulling out big baskets throughout the fourth as the difference remained around ten points.
The game hung in the balance with the Caledonia resistance, and Wright and Fraser Malcolm traded threes in the pivotal moment of the game.
Wrightâs energy forced a huge play in the clutch. He missed a three short but battled for the offensive board, then found Abercrombie at the top of the arc who drained a three over the contest.
Abercrombieâs three blew the game open, as Hunter hit out of a Caledonia timeout, before dishing a lob pass to Thompson who finished for two. That was the final Riders score of the night, who held on for the win.
The Riders are back in action on Sunday, taking on the London Lions at Copper Box in Championship action.
Leicester Riders are back at home on January 31, taking on Bristol Flyers!
Leicester Riders Basketball Club can provide the following update regarding Blake Bowman’s injury status.
We regretfully announce that Blake Bowman will miss the remainder of the season due to a knee injury.
Blake sustained the injury during the Riders’ game against Newcastle Eagles on January 3.
After undergoing an MRI scan and evaluation by the Club’s medical staff, the results confirmed that an extended recovery period with the Club will be necessary.
Leicester Riders extends their best wishes to Blake for a speedy and full recovery.
Leicester Riders are ready to go head-to-head with Caledonia Gladiators for the first time this season.
The Riders opposition currently prop up the Super League Basketball standings, but have shown signs of finding form in their previous two fixtures. They will look to rally after recent roster changes have left them with a six man rotation for tomorrow’s action.
With the Leagueâs top three teams all playing at the same time on Friday night, the round of fixtures could see a significant swing at the top of the table.
Hereâs all you need to know about the game…
Fixture information
Leicester Riders vs Caledonia Gladiators
Mattioli Arena, Leicester
Super League Basketball Championship
Friday, January 17, 7:30 pm
Ridersâ continue to flex their defensive prowessÂ
Leicester Riders are hunting down London Lions at the top of the Championship standings, moving to within one game of the League leaders with last week’s win against Manchester Basketball.
They held Manchesterâs red hot offence, which averaged 87 points in December, to 76 at the Mattioli Arena, their League-best defence continuing to set the tone in games.Â
The Riders blocked seven shots on the night. Charles Thompson, the League leader in blocks, sent away three, and Riley Abercrombie who took home player of the game honours after bagging 13 straight points in the third, had two emphatic rejections.Â
The team allows 77.6 points per game, making them the stingiest outfit in the SLB. Their 5.2 blocks per game is the most of all teams, and they close possessions effectively by pulling down 73.74% of their defensive rebounds, again the most in the League.
Leicester come into this game having won seven of the last eight Championship games, and have held their opponents to under 80 points in six of those fixtures.
Another shot-stuffing defensive performance would go a long way to securing another League win for Leicester, keeping the pressure on the top of the table as we approach the midway point of the season.
Caledonia look to rally after departures
The Caledonia Gladiators currently sit last in the League standings with a 2-10 record.
Having already made changes to their roster earlier in the season, seeing the departure of Tanner Struckman who has since signed with London Lions, Ian Budose who now suits up in Manchester and Head Coach Gareth Murray, Caledonia were forced into two more changes with leading scorer Jared Wilson-Frame and Malik Dunbar leaving due to a breach of club discipline.Â
With Fahro Alihodzic, Elijah Cain and Prince Onwas sidelined through injury, the Gladiators are set to roll out a six-man rotation for tomorrowâs action.Â
They have made additions to the squad throughout the year in the way of the experienced backcourt duo of Teddy Okereafor and Nick Tomsick, and the hiring of coaching veteran Robbie Peers.
Unlike the Riders, who enter this tie on a good run of form, Caledonia have lost six of their last seven in the League, despite showing some promise in their last two games.
They beat Bristol Flyers at home in a low scoring battle, and last time out the Gladiators almost took back-to-back wins for the first time in the League, taking Cheshire Phoenix to overtime. They lost in the extra period 101-98 despite former Rider Patrick Whelanâs incredible 34 points and 8 rebounds,
They led the game 53-44 at the half, but Larry Austin Jr led Cheshire with 26 points and hit the shot to send the game to overtime in the clutch.
Generating offence has been a difficulty for Caledonia all season, leaving them with the fewest points per game in the SLB with 75.3. They hit on only 45% of their field goals and turn the ball over a league-high 17.9 times per outing.
Taking a short rotation into Leicester, the Gladiators will look to rally together and pull out a hard-fought win against the Riders.
Where to watch
Tickets are still avaible for tomorrow’s game. You can get them here!
The game will also be available to stream live on DAZN.
Leicester Riders put on an explosive second half display to take an 89-76 win against Manchester Basketball.
A slow start meant Leicester trailed for much of the first half, but 13 straight points in the third from player of the game Riley Abercrombie including three consecutive triples gave Leicester a commanding lead.
Abercrombie finished the game with 15 points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocks- an impressive display on both ends. Zach Jackson led the scoring with 21, going off for 11 in the fourth, and Charles Thompson continued his dominant run with 14 points, 11 rebounds and 3 blocks.Â
Led by Abercrombieâs hot hand, Leicester won the third quarter 28-11 which ultimately proved the difference in the game. Manchester, led by Donovan Micthellâs 16 points and 8 rebounds, battled wire-to-wire and threatened to make a run back into it in the fourth.
They fell victim to a poor deep shooting night, going 4-17 from three, and lost the rebounding battle 41-32.
The Riders improve to 8-3 on the season, one win behind the first placed London Lions.
Riders start slow against physical Manchester play
Manchester applied full court pressure from the tip off, guarding the Riders for all 94 feet to make progressing the ball up court difficult. Jaylin Hunter received the brunt of the ball pressure from the point, but coped well to score the hostâs first four points.
The Riders fought to the foul line in a physical first quarter for most of their offensive output. But Manchesterâs Nathan Cayo scored six quickly with an and-one and a triple from the top to take a 14-8 lead.
Leicester tried to garner momentum on the fastbreak as Hunter fired in a bounce pass to Jackson after Duke Shelton forced a miss inside, but the visitors repeatedly found their way to the rim to extend their lead. Marucus Delpeche leaked out after a Riders score to end the quarter, and made one of two to make the score 21-13.Â
Riders make it a game by the half
Shelton got the second started in style, throwing down a monster jam through traffic. He took the ball in the pick-and-roll from Conner Washington before rising over and throwing it down one handed.
Ethan Wright and Spencer Johnson followed with buckets, and Shelton put back Wrightâs missed triple as the Riders clawed back into it. But Manchester kept Leicester at armâs length with key shot making in spots throughout the second.
Mitchell led the team with 10 points midway into the period, hitting a big three to stop the Riders run.
As the half neared its close, Leicesterâs rim protection stepped up for two monster blocks from Charles Thompson, Riley Abercrombie and Johnson. The defensive stands meant the Riders trailed only a possession at the break, with the score 35-38.
Abercrombie heater gives Leicester the lead.
Jackson leveled the score immediately out the break. He pulled up from three with no hesitation to make it 38-38 but despite multiple chances at the hoop on the next few possessions the hosts couldnât take the lead straight away.
That was until Thompson stepped up on both ends. He took the ball with his back to the basket for a score before sending Cayoâs dunk attempt away to set up a Hunter transition bucket to give the Riders the lead.
Leicesterâs paint was locked off from their rim protection. Abercrombie sent away his second shot of the game, emphatically blocking Makai Ashton-Langfordâs layup. The Riders’ points came on the break after defensive stops, Thompson this time getting to the lane on the breakaway.
Abercrombie caught a heater to close the third. He drained three straight triples and single handedly built the lead to nine- Leicesterâs biggest of the game. He followed up with two scores for 13 straight points for the hosts.
Thompson joined in on the block party to swat Ian Dubose for the Ridersâ sixth block of the matchup. That ended the third with Leicester leading 65-49.
Jackson sees Riders home
Shelton started the fourth with a putback from Jacksonâs miss to keep the Riders rolling. But Manchesterâs intensity didnât drop despite a disappointing third- Mitchell draining a three to lead a 7-5 Manchester start to the fourth.
Jackson connected with his next attempt from three to keep Manchester at a distance on the scoreboard, before Conner Washington hit a signature pullup three to follow his teammate. However Junior Madut made tough shots on the other end to keep his side in contention.
Dubose then broke out for an open dunk to force a Riders timeout up nine, with Rob Paternstro urging his side to slow the pace of the game late.
Out of the timeout, Leicesterâs leading scorer Jackson took over for back to back buckets at the rim to reestablish the Ridersâ control of the matchup. Thompson hit on the buzzer next time down and Leicester led by 14.
Jackson put the cherry on the performance with a stepback three, putting the result beyond a doubt with his 18th points.
Rematch on Sunday
Leicester Riders head to Manchester for the second of a doubleheader against the Northwesterners on Sunday. They will face off in the Super League Basketball Quarter-Final at the National Basketball Performance Centre, with Leicester looking to progress to the Final Four.
The Riders then return to Championship action at home next Friday against the Caledonia Gladiators on January 17.
The Riders return to Championship action next Friday against the Caledonia Gladiators on January 17.
Leicester Riders are set for their first home game in 2025, taking on Manchester Basketball in the Super League Basketball Championship.
These are two of the in-form teams in British basketball, who both look to bounce back from win streak ending defeats last time out.Â
Last weekend, the Riders lost on the road to the Newcastle Eagles to end a six game League winning run, and Manchester fell to Cheshire Phoenix in overtime to end a five game streak in all competitions.
That leaves the Riders in third place with a 7-3 record, taking on the 4-6 Manchester in sixth. The teams will play each other twice this weekend in the League and the Cup Quarter-Final, the first of those games being played on Friday as the Riders host Manchester in League action, before they head to the North West on Sunday to play in the Cup.Â
Hereâs how the weekend is shaping upâŠ
Riders run halted in a thriller in Newcastle
The Riders navigated a congested December schedule emphatically, going on a League run which catapulted them into contention for the top of the Championship standings. But after playing eight games in the month, the Riders ran out of steam for the final action of the festive schedule on January 3.
They dug deep and fought Newcastle wire-to-wire, earning a shot for the tie after big clutch plays late. But Jaylin Hunterâs halfcourt heave didnât go down, and the Riders lost 93-90.Â
Leicester’s play before that result, in particular back-to-back wins on December 27 and 30 with the latter coming against the League leading London Lions, established them as one of the premiere teams in British basketball.Â
Their defence ranks best of all teams, holding opponents to 77.8 points per game. They generate the most assists and turn the ball over the least; they wonât beat themselves while playing their team brand of basketball on both ends.Â
Their stars delivered throughout the month of December. Big man Charles Thompson was named the League’s Player of the Month after averaging 14.5 points, 10.6 rebounds and 3.5 blocks per game.
He leads the League in blocks and rebounds per game, while star guard Hunter leads all players in assists with a 7.6 average.
Theyâll need every ounce of performance this weekend against a Manchester side who found their groove in December.
Manchester find festive form
Manchester are the trending team in Super League Basketball, and heated up in December to pull out a run of five straight wins in all competitions.Â
They battled out a win against the second placed Sheffield Sharks, put 106 points on the Phoenix and progressed through to the Cup quarter finals with a win against Hemel Storm.
Manchester have rolled out one of the most explosive offences in the League over recent games. They scored 87.9 points per game in December, making them the second-highest scoring team on the season behind Cheshire.
Theyâre led by Nathan Cayo, who like Thompson was nominated for the December Player of the Month award. The 6â7â former NBA G-Leaguer is putting up 16.4 points and 6.8 rebounds on the season, with impressive double doubles such as his 23 and 11 night against Caledonia Gladiators and 19 and 10 against the Phoenix.
Manchesterâs success, like Leicester, comes from free flowing offence, making these two teams the two best ranked in assists per game. However unlike the Riders, they haven’t had the same success in limiting turnovers on the season, giving the ball away 13.4 times per game.
But the red hot North Westerners, who knock down threes at a 36.6% rate, will need to be met with Leicesterâs best defensive effort should they want to add another win to their League tally and progress to their second semi-final of the season on Sunday.
Last matchup
The Riders have faced Manchester Basketball once before, taking a 99-86 win in November.
Riders Riders were a red hot 53% from the field and 43% from three on the game, led by Zach Jacksonâs 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists.Â
Manchester had no answer for Leicesterâs free flowing offence, losing the game despite shooting 55% from the field themselves. Cayo led them with 15 points in 29 minutes of action.
Tickets
Leicester Riders fell just short in a thrilling battle against Newcastle Eagles, losing 93-90.
The Riders, down 9 in the fourth, pulled the game back to within a possession with a shot to take the lead late. But Newcastle hit tough shots throughout, and despite Leicester forcing the game to be fought until the final buzzer with big shots from Riley Abercrombie and Charles Thompson, they ultimately ran out of clock.
Zach Jackson led the team with 24 points and 7 rebounds, going 12-12 from the line and making key free throws throughout the final quarter. Abercrombie logged 15, including a clutch three to keep the team alive with 8 seconds left.
After Newcastleâs Cole Long missed a foul shot which would have put the Eagles up 4, the Riders required a prayer on the buzzer to send it to overtime. Jaylin Hunter fired from halfcourt, but couldnât get it to go.
Mike Okauru led Newcastle against Leicester for the second straight game, bagging 22 points and getting tough baskets to go in the biggest moments of the tie. As did Seneca Knight, who finished with 21.
Leicester fall to 7-3 in the League, two wins behind the London Lions who top the table.
Riders lead through mistake ridden first quarter
A scoreless first minute of play saw the Riders turn it over on their first two possessions, and the Eagles blew two good looks at the rim. Leicester took the lid off with a transition lob pass from Spencer Johnson finished off by Abercrombie, but it was a combined 1-6 start from the field for the teams.
Thompson, fresh off being named the SLB Player of the Month for December, scored 5 of the teamâs first 7 with his elite finishing ability in the post. Jackson involved himself early with two trips to the line, including an and-one finish with a floater, and Leicester led 12-11 with 3:44 left in the first.
The scoring in the period picked up as the clock ticked down. Josh Ward-Hibbert, after putting up 30 last time in Leicester, hit two threes, while Ethan Wright scored five with a coast-to-coast layup and step back three.
Wrightâs triple was the final score of the first, which ended 21-18 to Leicester.
Thompson takeover gives Leicester lead
Ethan dropped DeâSean Allen-Aikins to start the second, beating him with a spin move and finishing in an open lane. The Riders were relentless in their attack of the rim with Jackson, Abercrombie and Hunter all finding joy in close.Â
Newcastleâs Will Neighbour, back in action after being sidelined with injury, hit back-to-back threes to get Newcastle back into it. Knight got to the line with an and-one next time up, and the hosts took the lead back.Â
Thompson took advantage of his matchup with Neighbour by backing down in the post, scoring possession after possession inside. He took over the game in the second on both ends, swatting Knightâs layup attempt and forcing a miss from Long on defence.
His block on Knight led to a Conner Washington triple, meaning Leicester led 44-38 at the half.
Slow start to the second half puts Riders in a hole
The Eagles stormed back into the lead of the game to start the second half, going 11-0 out of the break. Okauru started it with a triple, and Knight ended it at the foul line after drawing a block on Hunter.
Jackson was the Rider to end the run, stealing it off Darius Defoe and finishing off on the fastbreak. Thompson then took it coast-to-coast after a missed Long three, meeting no resistance in transition.
But the Riders’ form only halted Newcastle temporarily. Ward-Hibbert threw down a fastbreak slam through contact, and Okauru hit from midrange to make it a nine point lead for the hosts.
With Leicester struggling for open shots and the shot clock winding down, Jackson hit a prayer on the buzzer by finding string with a turnaround three. Okauru and Neighbour hit from midrange and the corner respectively, but Wright took it hard to the hole for an and one to keep in touch.
A back-and-forth end to the third finished with the score 69-60 to the Eagles.
Eagles hit tough shots to keep Riders at arms length
The Riders started the fourth from the free throw line, with three trips from Jackson and Wright chipping into Leicesterâs deficit. Wrightâs foul shot made it a six point game two minutes in.
JâRaan Brooks stepped up for a big shot, making a triple on the wing through contact for a four-point play cutting the game to a possession.
But Knight had the response for the Eagles. He hit a tough fadeaway over Brooks for two, and hit a contested three from the top to rebuild the Newcastle lead once again.
Every time the Riders looked likely to climb back into contention, the Eagles hit big shots. Okauru found the bottom of the bucket multiple times through tight contests to keep Leicester at armâs length.
Riders rally to give themselves a chance
Jackson stepped up in the closing minutes and hit a midrange pullup on the left elbow brought the Riders back to within one score with two minutes late. Needing a stop to give themselves a chance to tie, Leicester allowed an offensive rebound and a Allen-Aikins second chance bucket to fall back into a five point hole.
Hunter found a quick score in response, but they couldnât foul on the inbound allowing Long to finish an open layup for two.
Out of a resulting Rob Peternostro timeout, Abercrombie hit a quick three to breathe life back into Leicester. They sent Okauru to the line, but he made both to make the difference four.
Thompson got straight to the hoop on the indound and hit a layup straight away with four seconds on the clock. Long was then sent to the line and made one, giving the Riders an attempt at a miracle buzzer beater. Hunter couldnât get it to go at halfcourt and Leicester fell just short.
Leicester Riders return to action next Friday, hosting Manchester Basketball in the SLB Championship.
Leicester Ridersâ Charles Thompson has been voted Super League Basketball Molten Player of the Month for December.
The American center averaged 14.5 points, 10.6 rebounds and 3.5 blocks per game in a dominant month of basketball on both ends of the court. He now leads the League in rebounds with 8.8 per game, and blocks with 3.2 per game.
Thompsonâs jaw dropping stat lines from December include:
Against Newcastle Eagles on December 15, he achieved the highest index rating without taking a field goal since records began, logging 8 rebounds, 5 blocks and 3 assists in a blowout win.
He sealed a win against London Lions to close out 2024 with the Riders Play of the Month, sending away Jaiden Delaireâs layup for his sixth block of the game with seconds on the clock.
His monster jam over Skyler White to start the month was one of the highlights of the season so far, as well as his one-man highlight reel against Surrey when he blocked four shots and threw down two jams.
Thompson anchors the best defence in the Super League Basketball in Leicester Riders, who are in the midst of a six game league winning streak which has improved their record to 7-2 going into 2025.
He looks to continue his run of form in January, starting tonight against Newcastle Eagles on the road.
Leicester Riders start 2025 with a trip to Newcastle on Friday January 3, taking on the Eagles for the fourth time this season.Â
The historic rivals have shared the floor in some of the most enthralling matchups of the inaugural Super League Basketball season, fighting wire-to-wire over two legs in the Trophy semi-final and facing off at the Mattioli Arena in league action.Â
Vertu Motors Arena will now host the latest iteration of the tie, with the Riders looking towards the top of the table after six league wins on the bounce.
Hereâs everything you need to know about the season series so farâŠ
Riders defence
Despite the season series being tied with a win each, and a tie in the Trophy semi-final second leg, the Riders are winning the matchup by a points difference of 20 after an 89-65 win in the League.
Leicester held Newcastle to 31% shooting from the field and 14% shooting from three in an impressive performance to continue the Ridersâ league winning streak.
The Riders defence has been a defining characteristic of their season so far, allowing the fewest points of any team, but allowed a season-high 95 points in regulation in Newcastle for the Trophy Semi Final first leg.Â
The Eagles caught fire from three, shooting 40% from deep behind three triples from Cole Long. However, after allowing 59 in the first half, the Riders solved their defensive puzzle in the second half to come back from 19 points down.
The Eagles average 83.9 points per game this season, but scored an average of 74 points in their games in Leicester against the Leagueâs leading defence. Have the Riders cracked the code for slowing Newcastle down, or will the Eaglesâ find their shooting form on their return to the North East?
Okauru vs Jackson
Newcastle have a top five scorer in their ranks in Mike Okauru, who is putting up 17.6 points per game in the League this season. He showed off the full force of his scoring powers last time out in Leicester with 34 points in the semi-final, leading Newcastle through a nail biting finish.
The game was a reminder to the Riders of the American guardâs scoring potential, after holding him to 12 points per game in the prior fixtures. He shouldered the scoring load in 37 minutes of action, taking 24 shots, making them at a 60% clip and hitting them from all over the floor.
Okauru is 53% from the field and 40% from three this season- his best three point shooting season since his Freshman year in college with the Florida Gators. He averaged 18.4 points per game in his rookie year in Czechia, and looks to be in the midst of another high-level scoring season this year.
Meanwhile the Riders possess their own elite scoring threat, who has enjoyed success against the North Easterners in the season series between these teams. Zach Jackson is averaging 19.3 points per game against the Eagles in his three appearances, scoring 24 to lead a comeback in the first leg of the Trophy Semi-Final.
Jackson is the Clubâs leading scorer on the season with 17 points per game, and has scored double digit points in every game. The biggest moments of the year have seen Jackson step up in the fourth quarter for clutch buckets, including late scores in both Semi-Final legs.
The Riders have one of the most reliable all around performers in British basketball in Jackson, and someone that can go bucket for bucket with anybody in the League.
Riders suffer slow starts
In both semi-final legs, the Riders were forced to dig themselves out of a sizable hole after starting slowly in the tie. They were down 19 at the half in the first leg after allowing a 38 point second quarter for the Eagles, and down 20 in the second leg going into the final period.
The first leg saw a second half fightback giving the Riders a shot for the lead in the final minute, and in the second leg the Riders nearly pulled off a miracle fourth quarter comeback to battle their way into the final. But on both occasions they fell short, and fell victim to their slow starts to the games.
This is something they remedied against London and Bristol after Christmas. Leicester led by 12 in the first period against London last time out, and 14 in the first quarter against Bristol, holding out for the win on both occasions.
The Riders will look to follow the trend of quick starts against Newcastle, and right the wrongs of the semi-final.
Leicester Riders ended 2024 by taking down the table topping London Lions in a thriller at the Mattioli Arena.
Charles Thompsonsâ 16 points, 14 rebounds and 6 blocks led the team to an 84-75 win, as he continued his dominant end to the calendar year. Ethan Wright led the scoring with 21 off the bench, and Riley Abercrombie finished with 11 points, 12 rebounds and the game sealing three in the clutch.Â
The Ridersâ defense sealed the win the the fourth, holding London scoreless for four minutes late with emphatic rejections from Thompson and Wright. In a game between the two best defences in the league, Leicester led by anchorman Thompson proved an immovable object when it mattered most.
Jaiden Delaire was the one to end the scoring drought for London, but it was too little, too late for the visitors. He led London with 16 points and 8 rebounds, backed by Arryn Raiâs who had 14 points, 10 coming in the fourth quarter.
The win saw the Riders take a dent out of the Lions at the top of the table, moving to within one win of them with a 7-2 record.
Riders bolt out to early lead
Two buckets at the hoop started the Ridersâ scoring on the night, with Spencer Johnson drawing an and one on Michael Brisker. Abercrombie pulled up from midrange for his second score with three minutes played, making it an 8-2 Riders start.
Everything dropped early for Leicester, including Jaylin Hunterâs pull up triple from the wing. Johnson followed from the perimeter after Zach Jackson was doubled on his drive, and London called timeout down 16-6.
Following the break, Hunter fired a laser into Thompson in the lane who finished for two, before Jackson drew a foul on the inbound to steal a possession.
As the end of the first neared, the Lions gathered themselves to chip into the Riders lead and cut it to five. Ovie Soko battled down low for two scores, and star guard Michael Brisker showed off his handles before adding to his tally from the midrange.
But Ethan Wright stopped the London run with a triple on the buzzer, and the period ended 24-17. And Wright started the second with a bang, drawing an and one play after taking it to the rim with authority.
Lions gather form to take halftime lead
Londonâs Delaire got going in the second with six points and the Lions cut the Leicester lead to two. The visitors went on a 6-0 run with back-to-back baskets from Delaire as they continued to grow into the contest.
With 7:25 on the clock in the second, Tyler Peterson tied it up with an and-one by scooping in a layup through contact. The sides engaged in a back-and-forth battle with the score locked up.
Peterson bettered his season-high in the second quarter alone, bringing his game tally to 11 with his play in the paint. Meanwhile Wright and Thompson found joy inside to keep pace with the league leaders.
The Lions looked to be building separation in the scoreline as the half closed with Brisker and Soko combining to make a five point lead. But they lost Johnson on the perimeter, who hit a three from the corner to bring it back to a single score.
London had the final shot of the period which fell to Brisker, who airballed a three to send the sides into the half with the score 45-46 to London.
Riders lock down to lead with one to play
The closely fought affair in the first half carried over to start the second as Leicester battled in an attempt to snatch the lead back. Hunter fired a deep three at the end of the shot clock to do exactly that, making it 52-51 in the hostâs favour.
The lead was exchanged between the teams with Delaire drawing a goaltend from Thompson and Jackson scoring twice at the foul line. The Riders were in the bonus five minutes into the period, giving them chances at the stripe in the third.
Jackson took advantage of the London foul trouble by drawing a foul on Ade Adebayo, then Spencer connected from the corner to put the Riders up 61-53- their biggest lead of the second half.
London made a charge after Delaire threw down a monster jam on the drive. Peterson followed with an and-one play and the Lions were back in it quickly.
Again, it was Wright to stem the momentum with a triple from the wing off a Johnson offensive rebound. Thompson grabbed an offensive rebound on Wrightâs three on the final possession of the third and laid in a hook shot, and Leicester led 66-58 with one to play.
The Riders began to lock down, holding the Lions to 12 points in the third.
Lions muster comeback to start fourth
The Riders continued to get to the foul line to fend off the Lions early in the final period. Wright and Abercrombie had perfect trips to the stripe to nullify Raiâs three straight buckets for London.
The Lions were the first to go on a run in the fourth, however, making it a one possession game once again with a three from Brisker and second chance points from Rai, forcing a Riders timeout.
The break didnât slow Rai, who came out of the break and got straight to the foul line to cut it to one. Peterson then took the lead at the line with five minutes left.
Riders find late form to see out win
Trying to take hold of the game in the clutch, Wright drove baseline for a layup against Delaire, who on four fouls couldnât risk fouling. Jackson then took the mantle, drawing a tough and-one make with 2:29 on the clock to make it 77-73.
Next time up, with the clock winding down, Abercrombie hit a deciding three on the buzzer to make it a seven point affair. Blocks on the other end from Thompson and Wright locked down London until Delaire made it to the line and hit both.
The Lions applied full court pressure with less than a minute on the clock, but Hunter found Abercrombie who was sent to the line and made both. Thompson then sealed it with another swat on Delaire, and Hunter finished the game with a pair of foul shots.
The Riders return to action on January 3, taking on Newcastle Eagles on the road. They then return home on January 10 to host Manchester Basketball.
Leicester Riders got back to winning ways, beating Bristol Flyers 83-74 to improve to 6-2 in the Super League Basketball Championship.
A red hot first quarter saw the Riders run out to a big lead in the first, which they held until the final buzzer. Zach Jackson led the team with 20 points, going 8-12 from the field, and Riley Abercrombie hit big shots from three to go 14 and 8.
Bristol fought back from 19 down to cut the Riders lead to 5 points in the fourth, before Leicester refound form through the rim protection of Duke Shelton and Charles Thompson, and the three point shooting of Abercrombie to rebuild a big lead.
Thompson logged 12 points, 6 rebounds and 3 blocks, and Shelton went off for 9, 5 and 2 on the game.
The Leagueâs leading scorer Keddy Johnson led Bristol with 20 points, but the Flyers made only four threes on the night as they fell to 2-4.
Riders get off to a Flyer
Thompson, off the back of two straight Team of the Week mentions, got going with a hook shot inside and a big block on Corey Samuels in the opening two minutes. The first three Riders scores came in close as they established themselves in the paint from the tip.
A lob from Jaylin Hunter laid in by Jackson made it 11-5. Abecrombie followed with an and-one on the break, and the Riders built a solid foundation early. Abercrombie drained his first three of the game midway through the first to make it 19-5 and force a Flyers timeout.
Out of the timeout, the Leagueâs leading scorer Keddy Johnson got to work with two straight scores to breathe life into the visitors.
Leicester’s response came from deep, with Ethan Wright coming into the game after his 23 point night last time out to connect from the corner. His triple meant the Riders took a 28-13 lead into the second.
Bristol bombard Riders rim to close half
Wright got the second period underway by pulling up from midrange to keep the Riders rolling. Blake Bowman followed up from the wing before getting a physical defensive stop against Bristol big man Leslee Smith at the rim, and Wright added to his tally inside to make it a 19 point lead for Leicester.
Keddy Johnson continued to go to work, making his tally 10 with an and one. A turnover in transition then gave Bristol an easy two, and the Riders called timeout with their advantage cut to 13.
Leicester locked down defensively to stem the run, before Jackson put four more points on the board. But the Flyers were aggressive to close the half, bombarding the bucket in close to keep in contention. Kendall Lewis and Desmond Robinson combined for eight points near the end of the second quarter, and the sides went into the locker rooms with the score 51-37.
Shelton and Thompson end Flyers run of form
After a successful end to the first half, Robinson started the second with five quick points as the Flyers fightback continued. A three from the top from the 6â9â American cut the lead to single digits for the first time since the first quarter.
Hunter stemmed the momentum with an open three from the wing, but Lewis snatched it right back with a putback jam off a Keddy Johnson miss.
Working inside for Leiceter, Shelton drew an and-one play in the post, finished for two in the pick and roll and emphatically blocked a driving Samuels. But Bristol climbed back into it at the rim through Smith and Keddy Johnson, cutting it to five with an 8-0 run.
After being sidelined through injury for some of the third, Thompson checked back into the game to get four straight points and rebuilt the Leicester lead. Jackson closed the third with a tough floater and a pair of foul shots, and the Riders were up 69-60 going into the fourth.
Abercrombie shot making seals win
The Flyers remained in contention to start the fourth with big shot making. Robinson brought his tally to 15, before Lewis connected from three to stay within single digits.
But a Thompson takeover lit a spark for Leicester, as he swatted Evan Walsheâs attempt out of bounds for his third block, before finishing for two next time up. Jackson connected from midrange, and Abercrombie from three to follow their big man, and the Riders led 80-67.
Abercrombie hit again from the top- his third three from that spot on the night, to make it a 16 point lead for the hosts.
The Riders locked down to keep Bristol scoreless over three minutes late in the game, sealing their fifth League win on the bounce.Â
Lions up next
The Riders take on the table-topping London Lions next on Monday December 30.
Get your tickets here as the Riders look to dent the Lions’ hot streak and continue their climb up table.
Leicester Riders fell heartbreakingly short of a comeback win in the Super League Basketball semi-finals, losing 174-178 over two legs.
The team were 20 down on aggregate going into the final quarter, but a spirited fightback led by Ethan Wright saw them cut the semi-final to 3.
But Leicester ultimately ran out of time, missing key opportunities down the stretch to get over the line.
Wright led the team off the bench with 23 points, scoring 14 in the final quarter. He was backed by Charles Thompson who continued his dominant run with his second straight 18 point game and 11 rebounds.
The difference in the game was the foul shooting, with Leicester missing nine on the night and losing by four points.
Newcastleâs star man Mike Okauru scored a season-high 34 points to get the Eagles through to the final. He and Josh Ward-Hibbert put up 56 combined points, and no other Eagle scored in double-digits.
Slow start leaves Riders in hole
The game started with a defensive battle, both sides locking down in the opening minutes to allow nothing easy for the other. Thompson continued his dominance from the past few outings with a block on the driving Okauru and the score was 2-3 through three minutes.
Okauru did find early success however, scoring five in the opening stages including a tightly contested three from the wing. The Eagles led 6-12 early, taking a 10 point aggregate lead.
The Riders came roaring back, with Duke Shelton working on Cole Long in the post and Riley Abercrombie connecting with the hostâs first three.
But a run started by Ward-Hibbert, into the starting lineup for the game, and ended by Okauruâs transition three, forced the first Riders timeout down 13 on aggregate. The first quarter ended with the Riders down 15-25 on the night.
Riders get back in the game late in half
Leicester started the second quarter aggressively, scoring back-to-back at the bucket to cut into the deficit. But with Ward-Hibbert and Okauru still scoring, they couldnât make significant inroads.
Wright attacked the entire second quarter to bring his tally to six points five minutes into the period. The Riders got the Eagles in early foul trouble to get themselves to the line throughout. They struggled from the line however, leaving points on the board through continual missed free throws.
But the Riders rallied to end the half to climb back into it. Abercrombie and Hunter combined for three triples in the midst of a 13-2 run which saw Leicester make it a one point game on the night.
The defensive end saw Thompson wall off the paint, sending back Malcolm Delpecheâs shot with seconds left in the half, making the score 127-132 on aggregate by the break.
Third quarter sees Eagles take big lead
The Riders came gunning out the break to take the lead on the night, as Spencer Johnson fired from the corner for three. The Eagles crashed the glass to retake the lead with Ward-Hibbert as their primary bucket getter to score 11 points, and Newcastle rebuilt their advantage to 14 on aggregate.
Conner Washington checked in to breathe life into the Riders with his relentless energy, getting himself and Thompson to the line with his playmaking. Wright drained a triple off the dribble, and the Riders kept within touching distance.
But after an Eagles timeout and three buckets to end the third, Newcastle carried a 20 point lead into the final period.
Riders rally but fall just short
The sides went scoreless in the first two minutes of the fourth, the Riders offensive struggles continuing. Wright scored the first points of the period with a triple then a layup with 7:40 on the clock, igniting the Riders run.
Wright hit again from deep to make it a 13 point game. Thompson fought inside for an and-one play with Leicester showing fight throughout.
Wright, after Thompson missed the resulting foul shot, put it back with a layup, then Jackson got in the lane for two to cut it to 12 on aggregate. Following a Thompson block, he drew an unsportsmanlike foul on Long and hit both.
Down the stretch, Leicester missed a plethora of open threes which would have sliced into the Eagles lead. But they kept battling away to give themselves an outside chance. Seneca Knight turned it over in the backcourt, and Wright hit again from two to make it a 5 point deficit on aggregate.
Okauru hit a layup to extend Newcastleâs lead, but Jackson connected again from three to tie it. Wright then stole the inbound to send the crowd into raptures.
The ball went to Thompson next, who couldn’t connect inside. After a scramble for the ball, Long was fouled by Abercrombie and he went to the line. Long rattled one out of two home.
With seconds left, Thompson rebounded Jackosonâs missed three to make it a three point aggregate game, but the Eagles got the ball in and De’sean Allen-Eikens hit one to end the tie.
Leicester Riders won their fourth League game on the bounce by beating Surrey 89ers on the road 89-72.
Charles Thompsonâs dominant display led the Riders from the frontcourt with 18 points, 7 rebounds and 4 blocks, locking off the paint from wire to wire with his relentless effort and energy.
Zach Jackson followed up with 17 points, sealing the deal with a run of buckets in the final period. Meanwhile Riley Abercrombie notched a double-double with 13 and 12, and a three to end the night.
Leicesterâs bench also won the battle of the second units 23-9, led by Ethan Wrightâs 8 points.
The Riders won despite shooting 3-7 from the foul line to Surreyâs 17-22. Mervin James led the game with 22 for the 89ers, going 7-11 from the field.
Thompson leads dominant start
Fresh off his Team of the Week selection last weekend, Thompson scored six straight points to start the game to stamp his authority on the paint. He threw down a monster jam for his third bucket of the game after getting the switch in the pick and roll.
Thompson has 6 points, 3 rebounds and a big time block in the opening three minutes, his block on Cameron Gooden setting up a Jackson finish on the break. Leicester led 10-2 to start the game.
Hunter, from the point, played aggressively in the first to get to the teeth of Surreyâs defence. He scored six at the hoop in the first quarter.
Duke Shelton closed the quarter for Leicester with a hard-fought rebound and a post hook over James, but James returned the favour with a closely contested fadeaway over Shelton on the buzzer to make it 17-24 after one.
Leicester build on lead in the second
Conner Washington checked into the game in the second to hit back-to-back triples off the bench. But James, in rhythm after the end of the first, brought his game tally to 13 with his first three of the game to keep Surrey in contention.
Thompson re-entered the fray after sitting with two fouls and scored his tenth points immediately, before contesting Dame Adelekun in the post and giving him an empty trip down the court.
Abercrombie drained his first three of the game to make the score 45-31, and Thompson finished the flurry with a two-handed jam on the break to bring his game tally to 12. James ended the half with a bucket, and the sides entered the break with the Riders up 14.
Riders respond to Surrey flurry
Hunter led the team out the half with five points, including a tough floater through contact and a three from the wing. Abercrombie followed with a three from the top as Leicester extended their lead.
A string of Riders turnovers opened the door for a Surrey run, however, with Adelekun scoring on back-to-back possessions on the fastbreak. The second bucket was a finish from a lob pass from Di-Jani Parkinson, and the score was 49-60 with 2:30 left in the period.
The 89ers momentum caused a Riders timeout from Head Coach Rob Paternostro, as Leicester looked to steal the sway of the game back. Thompson and Jackson combined for 6 points once the team had regathered, rebuilding the lead at the hoop.
Jordan Hunt shot hope back into the Niners on the buzzer, however, making a miracle three to make the hostâs deficit 15 with one left.
Riders see it out through Jackson
Blake Bowman started the fourth aggressively with a drive inside, euro stepping for two. Wright followed with his second triple from the top as Leicester got off to a hot start in the final period.Â
Shelton picked up his fifth foul to see him sidelined for the rest of proceedings, and Surrey scored 4 straight points to chip back into it.
But Leicesterâs leading scorer Jackson took the game over in itâs pivotal stage. He scored 5 points on the bounce by getting his back to basket and finishing through contact repeatedly.
Thompson and Wright both sent shots away in emphatic fashion late in the fourth, and Hunter sealed the game with a three with a favourable bounce. The 89ers rallied late to cut the score to 13, but it was too little too late for the hosts as Leicester took a professional win.
Trophy semi-final next
The Riders are back in action on Sunday in the Super League Basketball Trophy semi-final against Newcastle Eagles.
Leicester Riders made it three league wins on the bounce with a 89-65 victory against Newcastle Eagles at home.Â
It was a start-to-finish dominant display for the Riders, who had contributions up and down the roster to win the bench battle 32-20. Zach Jackson led the way with a 20 point performance. He was backed by 17 from star guard Jaylin Hunter and 12 off the bench for Ethan Wright.
The game marked 500 wins for Head Coach Rob Paternostro, who became the fastest in British basketball top-flight history to the tally. It was a fitting way to make the milestone against the Ridersâ historic rivals.
It was a tough outing for the Eagles, who suffered only their second league defeat of the season. They were led by 13 from Mike Okauru, who went 6-15 from the floor.
The win means the Riders leapfrog the Eagles into third place in the standings with a 4-2 record, and the tiebreaker against Newcastle. Itâs three league wins on the bounce for the Riders who are making a surge up the standings during their packed December schedule.Â
Leicester will take confidence from the game ahead of a rematch with the Eagles next week in the Trophy semi-final second leg in Leicester.
Eagles fightback to keep it close after one
The games started at an electric pace, with buckets pouring in in the opening stages in a back-and-forth exchange. The Eagles drew first blood with a triple from their leading scorer on the season Okauru, but the Riders came up with a string of steals which led to a corner three from Hunter giving the hosts a 7-5 lead.Â
Leicesterâs leading scorer Jackson got in on the action midway through the first for five straight points, including a putback and-one from a Hunter missed triple. Jackson, who led the team last time out against Newcastle, continued to prove too physical for their defence down low.Â
The Ridersâ defence suffocated Newcastle, leading to four turnovers in six minutes for the visitors and only seven points.
However, Christian James took the lid off the basket to get the Eagles back in contention. He scored 5 points, including a corner triple, to make it 20-18. The Eagles comeback made it close after one, the score 23-20 in Leicesterâs favour.
Riders bench blows game open in the second
Wright made his impact felt to start the second with a pair of buckets at the hoop. He was followed by a Blake Bowman triple to rebuild the Ridersâ advantage to eight.Â
With momentum in their corner, Leicester blew the game open through scores from Aussie forward Riley Abercrombie. His three gave the hosts their first double digit lead of the game at 39-28.
The Riders second unit stepped up in the quarter to maintain Leicesterâs lead. 8 points for Wright and 5 for Bowman at the half meant the Eagles couldnât climb back into the game.Â
Hunter checked back in with two minutes left in the half and came up with two scores in succession, before Jackson finished the period with a triple for Leicester to lead 49-40 at the break.
Sharp shooting Riders build dominant lead
Hunter, driving on the fastbreak, made the play of the game to get the Riders going in the second half. He drove hard to the hoop before dishing a no-look, behind-the-back pass to Jackson who laid it in for two.Â
Jackson cooked out of the break, hitting two triples on his way to eight points in three minutes and a 57-46 lead. Leicester held a double digit lead through the third quarter, despite the Eagles chipping away with buckets at the basket.
The threes poured in for the Riders with Spencer Johnson, Hunter and Jackson heating up to keep Newcastle at distance. Baskets from Conner Washington on the fastbreak and Bowman at the rim made it 74-59 with one left, the Riders in firm control of proceedings.
Leicester see it out in defensive fourth quarter
The Riders stamped their authority on the final quarter early to leave little doubt. Bowman and Wright again combined for back-to-back buckets to make the score 80-59 with 8 minutes on the clock.
Leicesterâs defence locked down Newcastle, who went scoreless in two minutes in the fourth. Meanwhile offensively they pounded the paint, with Duke Shelton mucking his way to an and-one inside.
Sprinting through the final line, Hunter put the cherry on top of the game with a fastbreak finish for two.
A low scoring fourth concluded the action for Leicester to get it over the line. The final period was won by the Riders to finish off an impressive victory, and a statement ahead of next weekâs semi final.Â
You can get tickets to the semi final here!
Leicester Riders played the first of three December fixtures against their rivals, Newcastle Eagles, in the first leg of the Super League Basketball Trophy semi-final last Friday.Â
It was a hard-fought battle, with the Riders having to fight back from down 17 at halftime to bring the tie to within four come the final buzzer.
With the teams facing off a further two times in the coming weeks, both encounters taking place at the Mattioli Arena, learning from previous games becomes a pivotal part of the Ridersâ hopes of December success.
Hereâs what we can take from Fridayâs gameâŠ
Newcastle’s strength in depth
Newcastle proved to possess a talented roster from top to bottom, with weapons in the starting and second unit able to knock down shots at a high rate.
Jaylin Hunter spoke on Newcastleâs strength in depth ahead of Fridayâs highly anticipated clash.
âTheyâre pretty deep,â said Hunter. âThey have a lot of guys that can hurt you and win a game for them so they are not a one or two man show.
âThey have a lot of players that can drive and shoot, so we have to really pay attention to the scouting report and know who we have to contest hard on and who guys we need to be wary of drives to the rim.â
Hunterâs assessment was accurate, with the Eaglesâ bench outsourcing the Ridersâ 47-18 led by 18 from former Rider Josh Ward-Hibbert. Three players scored double digit points tallies on the Eagles second unit, with that unit playing a pivotal role in a 38 point second quarter for the hosts.
The Eagles bench was red hot from deep, shooting 7-15 from behind the arc, three of those triples coming in the second. The Riders will have to be locked into their perimeter defence through 40 minutes in the upcoming fixtures to keep Newcastleâs second unit in check.
Riders’ experience proves vital
Down 59-42 at the half, Leicester were forced to fight out of a hole and get themselves back into contention for the semi-final.
The experience of Head Coach Rob Paternostro paid dividends in calming the team at the half, and instilling belief that they could make it a game going back to Leicester.
Paternostro reminded the team that there was plenty of basketball to play in the two-legged semi-final.
âWe played poorly in the second to give them the lead, but there werenât just 20 minutes left, there were 60 left, and that was the message at halftime,â said Paternostro post game âThere was plenty of time to just keep chipping away.â
With those words echoing in their ears, the Riders came galloping back into the tie out of the half, going on an 8-0 run in the third quarter to cut it to single digits, and making it a one point game with an incredible sequence late in the fourth.
Ethan Wright epitomised the Ridersâ never say die attitude with an incredible chase down block on Christian James, before dishing it to Hunter for three to cut it to one. A late three for Newcastle rebuilt their lead to 4, but the Ridersâ fightback has made it a game going into the second leg.
âWe did an excellent job in the second half to get back into the tie. Defensively we learned a lot for the second half which is really important in these types of games,â concluded Paternostro.
Big moments, big players
With the teamâs back against the wall, Coach Paternostro leaned on his star power to get the Riders back into the tie. Hunter, Zach Jackson and Charles Thompson came up huge down the stretch in the second half to play big minutes and make important plays.
Jackson got the comeback rolling with a 10 point third quarter, battling to the free throw line with physical play at the rim. He led the game with 24 points, shooting 8-8 from the foul line in the game.
Jackson combined with Thompson, who had 8 points in the period, to snatch momentum back and establish themselves in the paint. Then as the clock ticked down in the fourth and the game hung in the balance, Hunter stepped up to drain a pair of crucial threes and chip into the Ridersâ deficit.
Leicesterâs star trio stepping up in the highest leverage moment of the season means all is to play for when the Eagles come to Leicester for the reverse fixture.
Newcastle next at home
The Riders take on the Eagles in their next home action in a crucial game in the Championship season on December 15.
Leicester Riders pulled off a second half fightback in the Trophy semi-final first leg to keep their Trophy final hopes alive.Â
Down 17 points at the half, the Riders made it a four point game at the final buzzer. The final score was 95-91, and the sides will go back to Leicester with the tie in the balance for the second leg.
Zach Jackson led the game with 24 points and 5 rebounds, backed by Charles Thompson who was pivotal in the paint, going off for 18 points and 14 rebounds, making big buckets in the fourth.Â
After giving up 38 points in the second quarter, the Ridersâ defence locked down in the second half to climb into the game. Turnovers proved costly against the roadrunning Eagles side, the Riders losing the battle 17-7, but Leicesterâs second half shot making meant all is to play for in the second leg.
Newcastleâs Seneca Knight led their efforts with 23 points and 4 rebounds, but the bench was the difference in the game. The Eaglesâ bench scored 47 to the Ridersâ 18, with former Rider Josh Ward-Hibbert bagging 18.
Riders overcome slow start to lead after one
Ridersâ star duo of Jaylin Hunter and Thompson found themselves on the same page from the jump to combine for two highlights in the first period.
The first score of the game saw Hunter sling a pass through traffic to Thompson, who threw down the first points one handed, then two minutes later Thompson found another lane to the rim from a Hunter feed and threw down another.Â
The Eagles were in rhythm early, however, to take a 12-6 lead. They entered the game leading all teams in fastbreak points, and took advantage of early Leicester turnovers to get easy scores in transition led by 10 points from Knight.
The Riders clawed back from the foul line, shooting seven free throws including a Duke Shelton and-one, who then took the lead for the visitors from the midrange. Hunter ended a breathless first period with a triple, meaning Leicester led 23-21.
Newcastle take charge in the second
Newcastle took charge early in the second quarter with a relentless flow of buckets. They started on a 13-2 run capped off by a Knight three which forced a Riders timeout down nine points. Josh Ward-Hibbert scored five straight out of the break, with Leicester in need of a response.
Hunter stopped the bleeding with a finish at the rim with six minutes left in the half, followed by Wright on the fastbreak. Leicesterâs offence clicked into gear, but couldnât stop the Eagles on the other end to cut into the deficit.
Knight built on his hot start to bring his tally to 14, and Jordan Spencer got in on the action with a triple from the top. Hunter hit back with four points, and he finished the second with 13, but Cole Longâs three made it a 17 point deficit for the Riders at the half.
Newcastle scored 38 points in a red hot second quarter, putting themselves in firm control.
Fightback begins in the third
Jackson and Spencer Johnson got to work early in the third to chip four points off the Eagles lead immediately. Thompson found joy inside for back-to-back buckets, and Leicester trailed by 11 after three minutes of the second half.
Newcastle, through another Long three, bolstered their lead in response to the Riders run. But the Riders were a different side to the one seen in the second quarter, forcing the Eaglesâ possessions to run deep into the shot clock.
Jacksonâs hustle turned what appeared an open layup for Spencer into a chasedown block, before Thompson scored on Long and blocked Christian James on the other end to make the score 71-61.
Leicester make it a game
Jackson took over the game to close the third. He scored six straight points, battling to the rim and fighting through contact to put the ball in the bucket, and keep the Riders in contention going into the fourth. The score was 76-67 with one left.
They remained at armâs length to start the fourth with Riley Abercrombie scoring on the break, and Jackson draining a three. Jackson hustled for a loose ball after a Riders turnover, leading to another Thompson jam, and it was quickly a six point game.
On the next run up, James was fouled on a triple to add three points to the Eagles tally. Long scored on a drive to the hoop to make the hostsâ lead 11 and force a Riders timeout.
But out of the break, Wright and Hunter found string on threes to snatch back momentum and make it a game late on. Wright, again fighting for space down low, made it a one possession game with three minutes left.Â
With the tie in the balance and James driving to the hoop, Wright rose high for a monster chasedown block. Wright then ran the break and found Hunter, who drained a triple in a huge sequence for the Riders.
Wright had a chance to take the lead with a triple, but hit iron on his shot. Knight then drained a corner three with less than a minute left to build the Eagles lead back to four. Leicester held on for the final shot, which Jackson took and missed, and the Riders now go back to Leicester for the second leg down just four.
The return leg of the semi-final will be played in Leicester on December 22, with both sides vying to progress to the final in the Utilita Arena Birmingham in January.Â
Leicester Riders are gearing up for the biggest fixture of their season so far.
Tomorrow, they’ll hit the court for the Trophy semi-final first leg on the road against their British basketball rivals, the Newcastle Eagles.
They enter the tie in good form after a double-winning weekend, in a pivotal part of the season for the newly formed Riders group.Â
After suffering back-to-back losses to Sheffield Sharks early in the year, their league season was put back on track with victories against Manchester and Cheshire.
Before their losses to the Sharks, the Riders were 7-0 in all competitions after going undefeated in the Trophyâs South Group. The Riders had to prove their bounce-back ability, and they did so emphatically.Â
Jaylin Hunter, the player of the game in the second of the two wins last weekend, emphasised the importance of the results to this group.
âIn those two games against Sheffield we realised we could be beaten, so that made us lock in that little bit more. We felt that people were doubting us a little so we wanted to prove that we can hang with the big dogs.
âIt was big to know that weâre not just good in the south- we can compete with the whole League.â
The Riders dove into the film room following the losses to diagnose the issues from the games, and emphasised quicker ball movement and more urgency on the fastbreak to improve their results.
âOur ball movement wasn’t where it should have been against Sheffield- there were a couple of opportunities where we could have ran in transition. We did a much better job of moving it in our last two games, and finding those outlets a second or two earlier.
âOur bigs did a great job of getting their heads up quickly after getting a rebound and getting the ball in transition. That really helped us in winning those games.
Overcoming the road running Eagles
Newcastle enters this game as the Leagueâs most efficient offence, generating their points on the run in transition. They score the most fastbreak points per game, making for an intriguing battle against the Riders who play at the slowest pace in the League.
Hunter believes the Riders, who turn the ball over the least of any team, can limit the Eaglesâ fastbreak opportunities with their ball security.
âOne thing we pride ourselves on is taking care of the ball, so if we continue to do that it will naturally limit their transition. A lot of it has to do with our offence not giving them the chance to run and generate fastbreak buckets which are impossible to guard.
âTaking care of the ball is the biggest thing in stopping their transition offence, which is what we know they like to do.â
The Riders havenât yet faced the Eagles this season, but the team have been pouring over film familiarise themselves with their opponents, who they are set to face three times in 16 days.Â
Hunter has been impressed with their opponent’s strength in depth.Â
âThey’re pretty deep- they have a lot of guys that can hurt you and win a game for them so they are not a one or two man show. They have a lot of players that can drive and shoot, so we have to really pay attention to the scouting report and know who we have to contest hard on and who guys we need to be wary of drives to the rim.
“Knowing the personnel is the most important thing going into these games, and once weâve played them a few times weâll feel more and more comfortable.â
The rivalry
Both of these franchises are familiar with facing each other on the biggest stages in British basketball, having established the fiercest rivalry over the past decade of the sport in this country.
But this will be Hunter’s first taste of that rivalry, and he is eagerly anticipating the playing environment.Â
âOver the last few days Iâve learned what this rivalry is all about. These games are fun when the crowd is into it and the energy is in the building then it ups the level of play from everyone. If that is going to be the environment then weâre ready for the challenge.
âThis is what you play for. If the fans are excited that makes us excited. Both teams have been playing pretty well, so now it’s time to play, simple as that.”
The Riders welcome Newcastle to town for their next home game in the Super League Basketball Championship. Get in the stands to support the team in a pivotal game at the top of the table!
Leicester Riders turn their attention to Trophy action, heading to Newcastle to take on the Eagles in the first leg of the semi-finals.
The sides have shared the stage for some of the most consequential battles in British basketball over the past decade, as they now prepare once again to suit up in the biggest games of the season thus far.
READ MORE: Leicester Riders vs Newcastle Eagles- The history
The Riders and Eagles have established a reputation as not only two of countriesâ premiere clubs in recent history, but this season as well.
Hereâs how this mammoth fixture is shaping upâŠ
Riders back on track
After going undefeated through the Trophy group phase in October, the Riders suffered their first two defeats of the season back to back against Sheffield Sharks three weeks ago.
The losses meant last weekend was pivotal for getting the season back on the rails ahead of a packed Christmas schedule, and a Trophy semi-final awaiting the team the following week.
The Riders responded emphatically with a 2-0 weekend, beating Manchester Basketball at home before holding on for an impressive win against Cheshire Phoenix on the road. The Riders look back to their best with the back-to-back wins, and their star power shining through in the weekendâs action.
Charles Thompson and Zach Jackson earned Super League Basketball Team of the Week honours from their performances.
Jackson led the team to a 99-86 win against Manchester with a 20 point performance, and Thompsonâs efforts at the rim set the tone against Cheshire, logging 14 points, 13 rebounds, 3 blocks and a monster jam over Skyler White for the play of the game.
Now the Riders turn their attention to the red hot Eagles, with only one League loss to their name so far this season.
Eagles flying high
Newcastle progressed through their Trophy group with a 5-3 record, earning them second place in the North Group and a semi final against the Riders.
But since then, the Eagles have gone 4-1 to start their League campaign, with a number of impressive European victories in the ENBL to accompany their League record.
Newcastle enter this tie having won three Championship games on the bounce, most recently hanging on to beat the Cheshire Phoenix as the Riders did.
The win put them second in the League behind the London Lions, the only team to take a League win against Newcastle so far this season.
The Eaglesâ success early in the year has come from ruthless efficiency from turnovers, leading the League in fastbreak points and field goal percentage. They play lock down defence in order to generate this offence, holding their opponents to the lowest field goal percentage in the League, and have generated the highest offensive rating on the other end.
Meanwhile Leicester, who play at the slowest pace of any team in British basketball, turn the ball over the least in the League, setting up an intriguing battle between a potent, halfcourt offence and highflying roadrunners.
One to watch
Newcastleâs Mike Okauru has shown his ability to take over games single-handedly in his introduction to British basketball this season.
He has a 35 point game to his name this season, draining 8 threes on his way to a season-high performance, and is averaging 18.4 points per game making him a top five scorer in Super League Basketball.Â
Okauru, a third year pro after spending his first two professional seasons in Czechia and France, has proven himself as an efficient scorer, and is knocking down his field goal at a 54% clip, and heâs a career best 40% from three.
The American guardâs threat is predicated on his drives to the rim, both in transition and the pick and roll. Leicesterâs rim protection will be pivotal in slowing down his threat driving to the hoop.
His finishing ability opens up the three ball, which he is knocking down at a consistent rate this season, meaning the Riders will need to be locked in on 6â3â Okauru for all 40 minutes.
Where to watch
The game will be streamed live on DAZN, tipping off at 7:30 pm. You can watch it here!
The Riders head north on Friday to take on their historic rivals, the Newcastle Eagles, in the Super League Basketball Trophy semi-final first leg.
The sides have faced off in the biggest games in British Basketball over the last decade. Here, we catch you up with the history…
2011/12- The first Final meeting
The sides first met in a major final in the Rob Paternostro era in the 2012 BBL Playoff Final: the Riders’ first final since 2001.
The Eagles, then serial winners of the competition having won four since the Ridersâ last appearance, added a fifth to their trophy cabinet on this occasion. They won the game 71â62, led by MVP Charles Smithâs 21 points.
That season, the Eagles pulled off the domestic quadruple, their victory against the Riders capping off the achievement.
Leicester pushed the Eagles all the way in the League, falling just two points short to set up the rivalry between the organisations.
2012/13- Riders on the board
The next season, the Riders took the silverware against the North Easterners, winning the treble by lifting the Championship, Cup and Playoff trophies.
They first met the Eagles in the 2013 BBL Cup final. Jay Cousinardâs MVP performance led Leicester to a 85â80 win, earning the first piece of silverware for Head Coach Rob Paternostro.
The Riders went on to lift the League title with a 30-3 record, clearing the second-placed Eagles by ten points, before meeting them in the Playoff final to complete the treble.
Leicester won the tie 68â57, again led by MVP Cousinard, to make it 2-1 in domestic finals between the sides.
2013/14– Trading trophies
Again, the teams fought for silverware at the earliest opportunity the next season in the BBL Cup final. The Riders had the edge, playing out a classic at the National Indoor Arena, Birmingham.
Cousinardâs late free throws put Leicester up three with seven seconds remaining, as the Riders fought back from 11 points down with four minutes to play, led by eight points from MVP Drew Sullivan.
The Riders didnât meet the Eagles in the remaining two finals, as Newcastle went on to top the Championship table and fell short in the Playoff final against the Worcester Wolves.
2014/15- Eagles quadruple
The 2014/15 season saw the Riders and Eagles share a title fight wire to wire. The Eagles emerged victors, finishing with 62 points to the Riders 60, then going on to win the Playoff final against the London Lions.
The Eagles again won the quadruple as they did in 2012, facing off against the Riders in yet another final. This time, it was the 2014 BBL Trophy final, which they won 96-90 led by MVP Smith once again.
Smithâs season saw him named League MVP, as he put up 18.6 points and 6.5 rebounds per game in the Eaglesâ historic season.
2015/16- Riders respond
The Riders responded next season, winning the League and Trophy double. It was Leicesterâs turn to pip Newcastle to the Championship title, a 29-4 record seeing them edge out the second-placed Eagles 58 points to 56.
Leicester beat their Eagles on their new homecourt at the Morningside Arena to lift the title.
The Riders went through the Eagles in the Trophy final, winning 85-77 led by MVP Sullivan against his former team. It was revenge for the Riders, who were beaten by the Eagles in the Cup final earlier in the year.
The Eagles’ Rahmon Fletcher won the first of his two BBL MVP awards, and led the team in the Cup win to take home Final MVP.
Leicester had a shot at the treble in the BBL Playoff Final, but fell a game short to the Sheffield Sharks.
2016/17- Building on success
The 2016/17 season saw Leicester build on the previous yearâs success, winning another domestic treble.
Winning the League over Newcastle by eight points, and taking a dominant 84â63 victory against the Eagles in the Playoff Final saw them establish themselves as the BBLâs premier outfit, after they lifted their first silverware of the season with a 91-58 win against the Plymouth Raiders in the Trophy.
The Playoffs marked the last time the sides have faced off in a domestic final.
The Eagles werenât left empty-handed, however, winning the BBL Cup with a 91â83 victory against the Glasgow Rocks. But the Riders finished the season the stronger of the sides, with Pierre Hampton leading the team to a playoff win with a Final MVP performance.
2018/Present- Recent years
2018 saw the first season where Leicester and Newcastle didnât meet in a final in seven years. It also marked the first season the Eagles failed to make a final in eight years.
Meanwhile, the Riders secured another treble, winning the League by 10 points over the London Lions.
They faced the Lions in the Playoff final to win the treble, taking the victory comfortably 81-60, and beat the Sheffield Sharks to win the Trophy final 90-85.
The Eagles finished third in the standings with a 21-11 record, not facing the Riders in any of the knockout competitions throughout the season.
The most recent high-stakes game between the Riders and Eagles dates back to the 2021 Playoffs, where the Eagles beat the League champions over two legs in a behind-closed-doors semi-final.
They went on to win the Playoffs that season, before the Riders responded with another treble the following season.
Last year, the sides met in a high-stakes Trophy group clash, with the winner progressing through to the Final Four of the competition. Leicester won the game convincingly in Newcastle to progress, and the Eagles will want revenge in this one to settle the scores.
Want to see the Riders in action?
Get tickets to our next home fixture!
Leicester Riders held on for a nail biting 86-88 win on the road to Cheshire Phoenix.Â
Leicester led by 14 in the fourth after some hot three point shooting, but Cheshire made it a one possession game and had a chance to tie it from the foul line.
Tyreek Scott-Grayson missed the third of three attempts, and the Riders got the win over the line.Â
Riley Abercrombie led the game with 16 points, backed by double doubles from Jaylin Hunter (16/12) and Charles Thompson (14/13).
Six players finished in double digits, and the Riders dished 24 assists to Cheshireâs 11 in a complete team effort.
Despite the clutch miss, Scott-Grayson led the game with 24 points and 5 rebounds. Cheshire shot 47% from the field on the game, catching a heater late to make it a game.
The Riders improved to 3-2 on the Championship season after a two-win weekend.
Riders fightback from hot Phoenix start
Playing trademark Phoenix basketball, the hosts made it a track meet from the tip-off getting buckets on the fastbreak. They took a 13-7 lead led by 7 from Cam Christon flying down the court.
Spencer Johnsonâs corner three stemmed the early momentum and cut it to a one score game, however, despite the relentless Cheshire start. The three turned the tide of the game as Leicester heated up.
They went 4-6 from deep in the opening period to snatch the lead. A late surge from Cheshire, finalised by Greg Wildâs three, tied it at 24 after one, but the Riders were in rhythm and on-target.
Riders grind out the second quarter
Blake Bowman broke the deadlock in the second quarter with a tough make inside for one of two baskets in three minutes. His play meant Leicester led by five to start the second.
The back-and-forth game swung towards the Phoenix through an Atwood three, however, forcing the first time out of the game for Rob Paternostro with the game tied at 33.
Neither side were able to form a significant advantage through much of the second, until Charles Thompson made the play of the game. Jaylin Hunter found his cut to the rim before he rose high on the drive and threw it down over the rim-defending Skyler White.
This set off an 8-2 Riders run to put the visitors up 44-37, capped off by Hunterâs free throws. Leicester carried this advantage to the half, leading 48-41 going into the locker rooms led by Thompsonâs 8 points, 8 rebounds and 3 blocks- a dominant half for the American.
Battling out the third
Leicesterâs lights out shooting translated to the second half, with Hunter pulling up off the dribble to put the Riders up 10.
They were forced to battle, however, to keep Cheshire at armâs length, as they hit big shots in an attempt to cut into the deficit. Scott-Grayson made the breakthrough from three to cut it to six, the score 53-59.Â
The Phoenix played full court, physical defence, forcing the Riders to fight through contact and get to the rim. Riley Abercrombie made big plays inside to bring his tally to 11 and keep the visitors ahead.
After Cheshireâs efforts had been subdued for the time being, Zach Jackson got to work down low for his trademark tough finish in the post. Johnson and Hunter put four more on the board, and the lead was back to 10.
Jackson finished off the third at the line for Leiecster, and the sides went into the fourth with the score 64-72.
Leicester catch fire in the fourth
The Phoenix drew first blood in the fourth, with RJ Eytle-Rock sinking a breakaway and-one to start it. After a tough offensive spell to start the quarter, Abercrombie took the lid off to respond to the Phoenix form with a contested three on the top.
Ethan Wright followed up with a finish inside, and Leicester had built a solid foundation late. But Scott-Grayson hit back with an and-one play, ensuring a tense finale for both sides.
With the game in the balance and both sides exchanging blows, the Riders connected with a big blow. Charles Thompson, driving baseline, kicked to Johnson in the corner who hit string and made the lead 81-72.Â
The Riders caught fire at the key moment in the game. Hunter fired a ball to Wright at the top who again hit from deep to make it a 14 point game.
Riders survive late Phoenix fightback
Cheshire never said die, and fought back to make it close. Skyler White and Holden got points on the board, and a Christon corner three brought the difference to seven. Holden then broke away after a Phoenix steal to lay in another.
Thompson was sent to the line next time down, missing both with 24 seconds left. Eytle-Rock then pulled down Whiteâs miss and put back and and-one play, sinking the resulting free throw to make it a one score game.Â
Jackson was sent to the foul line next, making one and giving Cheshire a chance to tie with a three. Scott-Grayson had the shot, and was fouled on a three by Johnson sending him to the line.
The first two went down, but dramatically he missed the third, and the rebound was pulled down by Thompson. Thompson was rewarded with another pair of foul shots, this time making one, and Johnson intercepted a full court heave to seal the win.
The Riders return to action for the Super League Basketball Trophy semi-final first leg, heading to Newcastle to take on the Eagles on December 6.
Leicester Riders return to action after the international break, hosting Manchester for the first time in Super League Basketball.
The Club looks to return to winning ways after back-to-back losses to the Sheffield Sharks. Building momentum is pivotal ahead of a busy winter schedule, with this weekend’s double header setting up a seven-game December.
Here’s some of the key matchups to look for in Friday’s action…
Makai Ashton-Langford vs Jaylin Hunter
The Leagueâs two premiere assist makers, Jaylin Hunter and Makai Ashton-Langford, go head-to-head from the point in this matchup.
Hunter, with 8 per game, leads all players in dishes, followed by Ashton-Langford with 7 per game. The two American rookies have quickly made their name in professional hoops as elite playmakers, pulling the strings from the point.
The Ridersâ star guard has been one of the standouts from their start to the season, finding quick chemistry with the rest of the roster to continually generate open looks with his flashy passing and court vision.
In addition to his playmaking, Hunterâs finishing ability at the rim has led to some mind-bending circus shots in the paint, and his quickness in transition and three point shooting prowess makes him the second-highest Riders scorer on the season with 14.7 point per outing.
For Manchester, Ashton-Langford has shown similarly impressive passing skills in his introduction to Super League Basketball to rank second in the League in assists, behind Hunter.
Like Hunter, his pass-first, selfless mentality has generated offence up and down the Manchester roster. He breaks holes in defences by willingly attacking the hoop, before swinging passes to cutting defenders and open shooters.
With talented scorers at the forward position, he is a weapon in the pick and roll, looking for switches onto bigger defenders where he can take them off the dribble, or draw double teams so he can find the cutter in the lane.
Slowing down the opposing guard will go a long way for their teamâs success for either of these court generals.
DJ Mitchell vs Riley Abercrombie
Manchesterâs leading scorer lines up at the forward position. DJ Mitchell is one of three 20 point per game scorers in Super League Basketball this season, averaging 20 points and 6 rebounds per game over his two league appearances so far.
His latest outing showcased his ability to get the ball in the basket and dominate the glass, logging a 15 point, 12 rebound double double against a physical Bristol Flyers outfit.
After starting his professional career in 2021, Mitchell has gained experience in Australia, the Netherlands and Poland to name a few, signing in Manchester from the NBL 1âs Brisbane Bullets.
Mitchell has a willingness to take shots from every spot on the court, making him a tough cover when pulling up from range at 6 ‘8″. He possesses an ability to take defenders off the dribble from the perimeter and play with his back to basket, making Mitchell a true five level scorer.
He was an efficient 50% from the field and 43% from three over the summer with Brisbane, and while he hasnât matched those numbers early in the season, Mitchell is capable of catching a hot hand on any night.
Matching up vs Mitchell in the power forward position will be Ridersâ Aussie Riley Abercrombie, who has experience playing down under over the summer for Illawarra Hawks, where he averaged 23.2 points and 7.7 rebounds per game.
Abercrombieâs season with the Hawks featured back-to-back 38 point games, five 30 point outings and six double doubles over 19 games.
For Leicester, Abercrombie is shooting a red hot 45% from three on his way to 13.7 points per game- third best on the Riders roster. He too can score from all five levels, proving his ability to shoulder the scoring load during his summer in Australia.Â
The 6â9â stretch four has established himself as a consistent scorer for the Riders this season, putting up double digit points in every Championship game so far. His matchup against Mitchell will be a fascinating duel between two versatile scorers.Â
Nathan Cayo vs Zach Jackson
Rounding off the top three one-on-one battles is the wing matchup between Ridersâ leading scorer on the season, Zach Jackson, and Manchesterâs CEBL championship winning Nathan Cayo.
Cayo was a key player for Niagara River Lions this past summer averaging 12.8 points as they went on to win the Championship. The former G Leager now suits up in British basketball for the first time, putting up 14.3 points per game in his first two championship outings.
His ball-handling and driving ability means he possesses guard-like skills standing at 6â7â. He has natural instinct as the ball handler in the pick and roll, making him able to take on defenders or find passes to the open man.
Cayo has touch with his back to the rim, and likes to rise up in the midrange to knock down shots. He is capable of stretching the defence with his three point shooting, which make shim a multi-faceted weapon for Manchester to utilise.
Cayo will face off against one of the best two-way players in the British game, Zach Jackson, who has dominated the open stages of the season for Leiecster to average 17 points per game.
Jacksonâs physical attributes make him an elite defender, and will come into the matchup against Cayo with confidence in his ability to stay in front of his opponent, fill the passing lane and slow down Manchesterâs offence.
On the other end of the floor, his top-level scoring ability on all five levels makes Jackson one of the best scorers in the League. Shooting 54% from the field and 40% from three, he has played efficient ball to start the season, and has come up huge in the clutch for Leicester too.
Jackson starred in the Ridersâ overtime win in Bristol, taking over the fourth quarter and overtime with Hunter to lead the game with a season-high 27 points, and his late game heroics against Sheffield, scoring eight straight in the final minutes, made it a one possession game and gave the Riders an chance to send it to overtime with a late comeback.
Manchester will be keyed in on Jackson from wire-to-wire in this captivating battle from the wing.Â
Secure your seat!
Tickets are still available for the game, secure your seat here!
Leicester Riders have been scheduled to play Falkirk Fury away in the first round of the Super League Basketball Cup on Friday, December 13 at 7:50 pm.
Our home Championship game against Caledonia Gladiators, previously scheduled for December 13, has therefore been postponed, and will be rearranged to an alternate date.
Furthermore, our home Championship fixture against Newcastle Eagles has been scheduled for Sunday, December 15. This game will tip off at 3 pm, instead of our typical Sunday tip-off time of 4 pm.
Tickets to this game are available here.
If you had already purchased tickets to our game on December 13 against Caledonia Gladiators, your ticket will automatically be assigned to the new game scheduled for December 15 against Newcastle Eagles. If you are unable to attend this new fixture, please contact [email protected] to reallocate your ticket to a different Riders home game.
Our Trophy semi-final first leg on the road against Newcastle Eagles has also been scheduled for Friday, December 6 at 7:30 pm, followed by the return leg at home on Sunday December 22 at 5:30 pm.
See the full schedule changes below.
Trophy: Away vs Newcastle Eagles
New: December 6, 7:30 pm
Cup: Away vs Falkirk Fury
New: December 13, 7:50 pm
Championship: Home vs Newcastle Eagles
New: December 15, 3 pm
Championship: Home vs Caledonia Gladiators
Original: December 13
New: TBC
Our full December schedule is now as follows:
6/12: SLB Trophy semi-final first leg, away vs Newcastle Eagles, 7:30 pm
13/12: SLB Cup, away vs Falkirk Fury, 7:50 pm
15/12 SLB Championship, home vs Newcastle Eagles, 3 pm
20/12: SLB Championship, away vs Surrey 89ers, 7:30 pm
22/12: SLB Trophy semi-final second leg, home vs Newcastle Eagles, 5:30 pm
27/12: SLB Championship, home vs Bristol Flyers, 7:30 pm
30/12: SLB Championship, home vs London Lions, 7:30 pm
Leicester Riders fell for the first time in 2024-25 on Friday, losing 82-79 at home to Sheffield Sharks.
It was an electric affair and a heartbreaker come the final buzzer for Leicester, who battled back at the hands of Zach Jackson late in the fourth but fell short by only an inch with his game tying attempt on the buzzer.
The Riders and Sharks have faced off in high-stakes battles over past seasons, but for this new Riders group, there is plenty to take from their first encounter with Sheffield in Super League Basketball.
Big time moments, big time players
Despite the Riders loss, Zach Jackson again showed his ability to put the scoring load on his back in the clutch to will his team into contention.
His Player of the Game performance saw him bag 20 points, and 8 straight for the Riders to claw them back in it.
The Riders were down six with three minutes on the clock before back-to-back threes tied it up. Following a Sharks bucket, Jackson putback Riley Abercrombieâs miss to once again level the scores, and his game tying attempt on the buzzer missed by an inch for what would have been his 11th straight.
Jackson, the leagueâs leading scorer, demonstrated his late game heroics earlier in the year on the road to Bristol Flyers, where he led the team to an overtime win. Having the American suited up in red when the game gets close breeds late game confidence for the entire Riders unit.
Sheffieldâs second unit scorers
The Sharks got their biggest scoring contribution from the bench on Friday, with EC Mathews checking in to log 18 points and 5 rebounds.
Mathews was a part of the closing unit which got the visitors over the line in Leicester, hitting what proved to be the game winning three with a minute remaining. It was his fourth three of the night- the 6â5â American providing a red hot hand off the bench.
Backing Mathews in the second unit was Prentiss Nixon, who was a thorn in the Ridersâ side in last seasonâs playoffs. Nixon went for 11 and 4 on the game in 24 minutes, shooting 50% from the field and finishing with a +/- of 7.
In a three point win, the Sharksâ bench had an average +/- of 5, proving the difference in a game which came down to the thinnest of margins.
The Riders will have to stay wary of the Sheffield second unit if they want to come away from South Yorkshire with a win.
Stick to the process
A back and forth fourth quarter saw big swings of momentum, the Sharks having the best of the late form to win the game.
But the Riders, after a hot start to the final period, got themselves up double digits for the first time in the game after a Spencer Johnson three, and looked in good position to see it out.
The Sharks caught fire at a pivotal part of the game to win it, a three from Jacob Groves kick starting a 16-0 run to give them a six point lead.
But that three minute stretch, which cost Leicester the game, should not take from the Ridersâ play which brought them within seven minutes of an 8-0 record to start the season.
Despite shooting only 40% from the field on the game, the Riders were within a possession of sending it to overtime, so a reversion to the mean and a solid offensive showing should put them in good stead to add a point to the win column this weekend.
The Riders are back at home on November 29 against Manchester Basketball. You can get tickets here!
Leicester Riders lost for the first time this season, falling in a heartbreaker 79-82 against Sheffield Sharks.
The Riders led by as much as 10 in the fourth, but the Sharks caught fire from deep to fight back into the lead. Zach Jackson scored eight straight late to tie it, but another Sharks three was the difference, with Jackson unable to tie it on the final buzzer.
Jackson took player of the game honours with 20 points and seven rebounds going 8-16 from the field.
Meanwhile Sheffieldâs EC Mathews led the visitors with 18 points and 5 rebounds, and a clutch three to win it.
Tight start sets the tone
Ethan Wright got the game going with a bang, his three representing one of the first five Leicester points of the game, all from Wright. He and Riley Abercrombie drained the first two threes of the night for the hosts to make it 10-8 to the hosts.
But the Sharks, entering the game as the Leagueâs premiere deep shooters, drained three triples early in the game to ensure a back and forth start to the action. Former Rider Jamell Anderson knocked down a three, his first shot of the game, to tie it up at 16.
For Leicester, Duke Shelton threw down the highlight of the first quarter after receiving a flashy pass from Jaylin Hunter, and Zach Jackson closed the period with a steal on EC Mathews, the Riders leading 22-21.
Riders close half strong to cut into deficit
Blake Bowman, checking into the game, grabbed the Ridersâ ninth offensive board for an and-one play to get the second underway. But three straight triples from Sheffield saw them snatch their first two-possession lead of the game, the final from guard Prentiss Nixon.
Nixon drove the lane next time up to put Sheffield up six with a euro on the run. While Leicester knocked on the door, a three from Spencer Johnson cutting into the deficit, they couldnât get over the hump to snatch the lead back in the second quarter.
Riders star defensive big Charles Thompson amassed only seven minutes in the first half after getting into foul trouble. Despite his absence, Abercrombieâs sharpshooting saw Leicester cut the game to one with back-to-back hits from distance. The Aussie had 13 points at the half time break, but the Riders trailed 46-49.
Hunter lights Leicester spark
The Sharks, after shooting 50% from deep in the first half, hit their first in the second through Javon Groves. With Leicester in need of a spark, Jaylin Hunter caught fire.
He chased down Rodney Chatman on the break for a swat out of bounds, then rebounded his following missed three and took off coast to coast. He drove hard to the lane, before reaching out to throw one up and the rim and sinking an emphatic and-one play to tie the game.
Hunter then pulled up from the top for his first three of the night, and stole the ball from Anderson on the next play and layed it in for his seventh straight points. Abercrombie followed up with a three from the wing, and Leicester led 62-57.
Donovan Clay ended the third with a pair of foul shots for the visitors, making it a four point affair with one to play.
Sharks respond to Riders run to set the stage
Spencer Johnson got the fourth going underway with a tough make from deep, beating the shot clock buzzer for three. He was backed by Conner Washington’s three which made it a ten point lead.
The Sharks bit back immediately to make it a one possession game. Groves drained a three to start the run, before Mathewsâ and-one and Jordan Ratinhoâs finish at the rim made the score 71-69. Groves then gave them the lead with another triple with six minutes left.
Sheffield were red hot in the fourth. Ratinho connected with their third triple of the final period with four minutes on the clock to make the lead six.
Falling short in a thrilling finale
With the game slipping away from Leicester, Jackson stepped up to nail back to back threes and tie the game at 77. Clay found a bucket for Sheffield to reclaim the lead, but Jackson, with his eighth straight points for the Riders, put Abercrombieâs miss back in to tie it again.
With 1:11 on the clock, Mathews stepped up for Sheffield from behind the line to drain another triple and snatch the lead.
The Riders had 18 seconds on the clock to find a response and send it to overtime, but Jacksonâs three hit back iron and the Riders fell just short.
The Riders are back in action next week, heading to Sheffield to face the Sharks on the road on Sunday, November 17.
They then return back home on Friday, November 29 to face Manchester Basketball.
You can get your tickets here!
Leicester Riders progressed to the semi-finals of the Super League Basketball Trophy with two group games to spare, beating the Surrey 89ers 89-76.
Blake Bowman led the teamâs effort with 14 points, in a game which saw five Riders score in double digits and every player get on the scoreboard.
Jaylin Hunter notched a double-double with 13 points and 12 assists, but it was the second unit that continued to be the X-Factor in close contests with its effort and intensity.
There was nothing in the game late in the third quarter before Bowman made plays to separate the score. Leicester blew the game open in the fourth and never looked back with made shot after made shot.
The Riders shot 50% from the field and 38% from three in another solid offensive display. But the difference was in their defence, winning the turnover battle 14-6.
Surrey played Leicester close for the second straight game, but again couldnât stay with the Riders in the closing stages. Jalen Ray led the game with 17 points and 4 assists in his sideâs effort.
Battling out the early stages
The Riders were electric from the off, building on Ethan Wrightâs hustle to take a quick lead. Wright was busy on both ends, getting a steal from Josh Steel before attacking hard for an and-one play.Â
Zach Jackson took the mantle for back-to-back scores inside, before Charles Thompsonâs efforts at both buckets made it 14-9.
Despite the hot start, a cold streak bit the hosts late in the first, allowing the Niners to climb back into the lead of the game courtesy of an and-one from Cameron Gooden.
Leicester went scoreless over two minutes until Jackson took the lid off the basket, taking a foul in the process for an extra point to close the half, but the Riders trailed 17-20 at the first break.
Thompson takeover snatched Leicester lead
After hitting only one three in the opening period, the Riders drained four quickly in the second, Spencer Johnson nailing three of them to take a 37-35 lead.
But Bowman was the story of the second, scoring 7 points with relentless energy in attacking the teeth of the Surrey defence.
Uncharacteristic defensive lapses kept the 89ers in the game, however, with frequent trips to the foul line and a plethora of offensive boards. Thompsonâs introduction into the game midway through the period remedied this with his interior presence, allowing Leicester to take a six point advantage.
Thompson made the highlight of the half, linking up with fellow American Jaylin Hunter to throw it down in the lane.
Hunter found Thompson twice at the end of the half, bringing Thompsonâs game tally to 8, but Surreyâs Jalen Ray finished the second quarter from the foul line to make the score 45-42.
Tightly contested third
Riley Abercrombie started the second with more sharpshooting from deep, hitting the Ridersâ first three of the second half. But Surrey hung around with buckets from Dame Adelekun, Mervin James and Ray, keeping it a close ball game. James hit a three with 6:37 left to tie it.
It was a one possession game in the third for seven minutes, with swings to the score throughout. While buckets werenât dropping, Leicester fell back on their defensive prowess to keep the game close as the clock ticked down, their active hands in the lane forcing continual turnovers.
Bowman was the one to find separation in the score line. He drove hard to the hoop again to take the lead, and nailed a three with Tayo Ogendengbe in his face to make the score 66-61 with one to play.
Red hot in the fourth
The Ridersâ captain, Conner Washington, stepped up with the score close for the second straight game. He hit a three through contact for a four point play to make the Ridersâ lead nine, followed by another Johnson three.
Huge shots fell throughout the fourth, with JâRaan Brooks getting a favourable bounce for a three to drop in, and Hunter beating the shot clock over a heavy contest in the corner.
Johnson stayed hot with a pair of triples in the fourth- the Riders catching fire at the perfect moment to see off the Niners. Jackson saw the game out with a finish at the rim, and the Riders progress through the group and remained undefeated come the final buzzer.
The Riders are back in action on Friday, taking on Bristol Flyers on the road, before heading home to round off the group phase against London Lions.
The Riders are back in action on Friday, taking on Bristol Flyers on the road, before heading home to round off the group phase against London Lions.
Leicester Riders look to book their place in the Super League Basketball Trophy semi-final with a win against Surrey 89ers.
Itâs the second of back-to-back games against Surrey for the Riders, who took a hard-fought 87-75 win from the south on Saturday to improve to 3-0 on the season.
The victory on the road means one win from the Ridersâ last three group games would see them progress to the next round. Meanwhile, the Niners look to pick themselves up from three losses on the bounce, and keep their slim semi-final hopes alive with a win in Leicester.
Hereâs all you need to know about the fixtureâŠ
Battle tested in Surrey
Leicesterâs hot start to the season has put them in pole position to win the Super League Basketball South Group with three games left.
Back-to-back road wins in London and Surrey have made it a 3-0 start to the season, the latter proving the toughest task of the year so far for Rob Paternostroâs side.
A two week break from action saw the Riders start slow in Surrey. They were down by as much as 16 in the opening period, before hustle plays from the teamâs second unit sparked a comeback in the second half.
âWe knew theyâd come out aggressive,â said Head Coach Rob Paternostro following the win. âTheyâd lost the last two games, and they really put it on us early.
âThe second unit, led by Conner Washington, really turned the game around for us. Their defensive aggressiveness really got us going, and in the second half our defence got better and better.
âThe first group saw their effort and that got them going. We were on our toes to start the second half after starting the game a little flat-footed.â
Star wing Zach Jackson led Leicester on the game with 21 points, shooting 7-10 from the field. Riley Abercrombie played an aggressive game on his way to 14 points, and Spencer Johnson came off the bench for 11, hitting big shots in timely moments throughout the tie.
It was the first test the Riders have faced in the clutch this season, and they made the plays to seal the win when the stakes were highest.
âThis was a different type of game to the ones weâd played recently,â added Paternostro. âWe had to battle back and see it out in the fourth quarter. These guys certainly showed today they had the composure to see it out.â
Niners down, but not out
Saturdayâs result meant Surrey face an almighty task to get out of their Trophy group. They now need to win their remaining group games, and hope that results and points differential swings in their favour to take Leicesterâs place in the semi finals.
That journey starts on Wednesday, where the Niners will have to beat the Riders to give themselves a chance to progress.Â
They will take some confidence from Surrey after playing the Riders closer than any of their opponents so far this season. Their hot start, led from defensive intensity, saw Surrey dominate the opening stages of the game before the Riders found form and took charge of proceedings.
Mervin James was their star of the night with 19 points, but it was turnovers that proved the ultimate difference between the sides as four of the Surrey starters gave possession away more than three times.
But this desperate Surrey side will look to recapture the start of Saturdayâs game in this one to keep their Trophy hopes alive.
Where to watch
Tickets are still available for Wednesdayâs game- get down to the Arena to help the team to the semi finals!
Get your tickets here– kids go for a quid with the code KFAQ!
Leicester Riders, Leicester Riders Foundation and Mattioli Arena Interim CEO Simon Winfield provides an update on the Club’s revised car parking charges.
Dear Supporters,
Following the first two home games of the season, we have conducted a thorough review of the recently introduced car parking fees. As part of this process, we consulted with the official supportersâ club, listened to individual fans, and held internal discussions within the business.
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who took the time to provide feedback and share their thoughts. Your input is invaluable to us. Our goal is not only to grow and develop the Club, but also to ensure we continue to recognise and appreciate the tremendous support of our fans. Together, we aim to create a winning team and an enjoyable, memorable game night experience for all.
The majority of feedback we received acknowledged that the introduction of car parking fees is understandable. However, many of you expressed concerns that the initial prices were too high. Weâve listened to those concerns and, in response, have revised our car parking charges for future home games.
The new fees are as follows:
All revenue generated from car parking fees will be directly reinvested into the Club and its Foundation. These funds help us support the teams, enhance the game night experience and contribute to the many projects run by the Foundation as we continue our commitment to reinvesting back into our community.
Car Parking Passes can be purchased online at the same time as your game ticket- you will need to show your QR code at the time of entering the car park. We strongly advise supporters to purchase in advance in order to make entry to the car park as safe and quick as possible for everyone. This is the only way to guarantee your parking space for the game.
We are conscious that some fans have purchased their car parking for future games, and arrangements will be made to refund any difference in the costs within the next 14 days.
Once again, we truly appreciate your support and feedback, and we look forward to welcoming you to our upcoming games!
Thank you for being part of the Riders family.
Regards,
Simon Winfield
Interim CEO- Leicester Riders, Leicester Riders Foundation, Mattioli Arena
Leicester Riders today announce the signing of Brooke Bigott for the 2024-25 season.
The American wing signs from Dutch side Den Helder in the BNXT league. She averaged 12.1 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.4 steals per game in 24 appearances for the Suns, putting up a season-high 23 in March.Â
Bigottâs season with the Den Helder Suns was her first in professional basketball, following her five year collegiate career with Appalachian State University.
There, she started all 31 games in her graduate year, scoring 188 points on the year with an average 6.1 per game. Bigott was the Mountaineersâ top scorer in two games and was the top rebounder in seven.
She ranked second on the team in three point makes, averaging 4 per game, and third on the team for rebounds.
Bigott now signs in Leicester, ready to suit up in Riders red ahead of her second season as a pro.
She will play for Leicester Riders and Loughborough University BUCS to accompany her studies. The Club would like to thank the University for their continued support.
Head Coach Ben Stanley commented: âWeâre really excited to be able to announce Brooke as part of our 2024-25 roster.
âSheâs another great person that weâre adding to the group, and the value that she brings to the court will be huge, with her ability to both score and facilitate from the wing.
âItâs been an extended process to bring her to the team, and weâre glad that sheâs now able to begin her studies at the University and be a factor on the court for us.â
In the interest of improving communications between the Club and its fans, Leicester Riders Basketball Club have engaged in open conversations with its official supporters club and individual fans in recent months.
After listening to your comments and queries, the Club has committed to various changes, and is able to provide answers to some of the specific enquiries that have been made.
Below, you can find answers to some of your most frequently asked questions.
Please note, further comments will be made in the near future regarding our game night car parking arrangements.
We appreciate your feedback, and will look to make additional improvements to your fan experience throughout the season.
Questions and Answers
Q: At the first game of the season we played in a black kit. Will we be playing in this kit at home this season?
A: As shared by Super League Basketball there has been a delay in teams receiving their official kits and an interim solution was put in place. For this season our kit colours will be Red and Black, therefore, once we receive our official kits the vast majority, if not all our home games will be played in our Red kit whilst our Black kit will feature primarily in our away games.
Q: Will we be able to purchase our new kit soon?
A: Once we receive our new official kits we will be able to order the replica kit for fans. Due to the wide range of sizes that will be available we have made the decision for all kit to be available on pre-order. If you want to guarantee your kit and be the one of the first to receive it you can pre-register by emailing [email protected] with your full details and kit size, pricing will be confirmed shortly.
Q: The atmosphere at the game was poor and there was no commentary. What happened and what are the plans for the future?
A: We share your disappointment of the events on Friday night. It fell well short of the standards we aspire to and want to deliver for existing and new fans. Arrangements with our planned commentator fell through with short notice, and while we worked hard to find an alternative on the day and thank our team for stepping up to fill the role last minute, we understand that this had a negative impact on the game night atmosphere. In addition, our musical support faced unexpected in-game restrictions upon request from a game official, all far from ideal. We are focussed on addressing these issue for our next home game and are confident that we will meet expectations of supporters. We appreciate the understanding of those that have been in contact regarding this issue.
Q: Where were the Cheerleaders? Will they be part of the game night experience this season?
A: During the offseason we undertook a detailed review of all our existing arrangements and partnerships. We want our events to reflect the community that we live in and attend the games and bring the multi cultural aspect which is at the heart of Leicester. Following detailed discussions with the Cheerleader representative it was a mutual agreement that they would not form part of the game day experience for this season. We will be bringing a range of pre and half time entertainment this season and will update you as we progress through the season.
Riders forward Zach Jackson has been named to the Super League Basketball Team of the Week for his opening night performance against Bristol Flyers.
Jackson led the game with 22 points, 7 rebounds and 5 steals on his way to a 33 +/- in the Riders’ 91-69 home win.
The American returned to Riders red with a bang, the four-time British basketball silverware winner not missing a beat as he took to the floor for his first competitive action of the season.
Alongside him in the Team of the Week are:
Patrick Whelan, Caledonia Gladiators
Dame Adelekun, Surrey 89ers
Cam Christon, Cheshire Phoenix
Josh Ward-Hibbert, Newcastle Eagles
Want to see Zach in action? Tickets are on sale to our next home game against Surrey 89ers!
Leicester Riders got their 2024-25 season underway with an impressive 91-69 victory against Bristol Flyers.
It was a start-to-finish dominant display led by 22 from returning Rider Zach Jackson, who grabbed 7 boards and 5 steals in an impressive effort on both ends. After a series of fluid offensive performances, the newly formed group played with a sense of togetherness leading to a plethora of open looks from deep which the Riders hit at a 46% clip.Â
Jackson was backed by 17 points from rookie point guard Jaylin Hunter making his professional debut, and Ethan Wright went 3-4 from deep for 15 points in total.
On defence, Charles Thompsonâs interior protection held Flyers star Kedrian Johnson to five points, locking off the inside wire-to-wire. Rookie guard Trey Tennyson led their efforts with 15 points, as his team shot 36% from the field.
Starting hot
The Riders flew out the gate to a 10-0 start. Jackson bagged the teamâs first Super League Basketball points with a three after free flowing ball movement, before another triple from Riley Abercrombie ended the run to force a Bristol timeout.
Jackson scored eight in five minutes to settle Leicester into it. The Riders maintained this foundation to lead 23-15 after the first quarter, which Blake Bowman ended with a triple.
Riders veterans took over in the second, with Conner Washington and Duke Shelton combining for two straight scores to keep the Riders in control.
Flyers find their feet
The Flyers found form in the middle of the second, making back-to-back scores at the rim- the second from new addition Jaren Sherfield. But Jackson stemmed the tide with his patented hook shot for Leicester.
A throw down for Jackson on the fastbreak got the fans on their feet, and snatched momentum firmly back. Ethan Wright took advantage of that with a three to force another timeout for the visitors, with the score 38-26.
Threes from Sherfield and former Rider Evan Walshe started a Bristol surge back into the game as halftime neared. Washe, playing aggressively late in the second, drove to the rim for an and-one finish, cutting the difference to five.
Abercrombie connected with a three on the other end to maintain the Leicester lead, but the Flyers were back into contention by the break.
Taking control in the second half
Despite finding a hot streak, the visitors couldnât make an indent into the Leicester lead to start the third period, as the Riders found joy consistently attacking the rim. Wright made it a double digit lead once again with a layup inside for his 10th points of the night.
The American made his presence felt on both ends, chasing down Sherfield emphatically with a swat out of bounds. Jackson and Hunter built on the swat with five quick points, and the score was 58-43.
Jackson caught fire, hitting two triples with the shot clock winding down as Leicester took firm control.
Seeing it out on defence
Washington, again from deep, kicked off the fourth followed by Jacksonâs 22nd of the evening. A circus shot at the rim from Hunter kept the foot on the pedal, and the hosts had a convincing position to see the game out from, leading by 15.
Wright stringed another three, making it 3-4 on the night for the American. Hunter then rattled on in to make the score 83-64.
The Riders put the clamps down defensively. Bristol mustered seven points in eight minutes in the final period, suffering from intense ball pressure from the hosts. Charles Thompson, anchoring the defence, was a stifling presence at the rim.
Hunter put the cherry on top of the performance with a pair of threes, epitomising a hot night from behind the arc.
Hitting the road
The Riders are back in action on Sunday for the first game of a two game road trip. They head to London to take on the Lions at the Copper Box, hoping to make it 2-0 in the Trophy.
Author: Sam Hargrave
Last seasonâs Playerâs Player of the Year, Elise Tweedie, is âsuper excitedâ to be representing the Riders again this season after returning for another year.
Riders Womenâs opening fixture of the campaign is away to Oaklands Wolves on the 29th of September in the Super League Basketball Trophy.
Ahead of the new season, Tweedie provided an insight into pre-season and how herself and the squad is shaping up ahead of a fresh year.
When asked about pre-season Tweedie answered, âpre-season has been good so far. The group that we have is progressing well and we are working on new things.â
The Riders announced their latest signing last week, Brittany Hodges, who makes her return to British basketball.
The American forward played for the South Adelaide Panthers over the summer and has had experience in British basketball, having had played for Sevenoaks Suns in the 2022-23 season.
âBritt is super experienced and so far provides great vibes and she is very much a professional,” said Tweedie.
Head Coach Ben Stanley began his tenure on the 5th of July 2023 and has been hard at work with this new group ahead of his second season at the reins. âBen is super focused on what he wants us to achieve so that is nice to be lined with direction and drive,â acknowledged Tweedie.
The former Caledonia Pride centre will complete her masterâs degree at Loughborough University whilst also lining up on their roster for the season.
Tweedie said: âI am super excited for the upcoming season. Loughborough is the best university in the world for my course which is insane, and I know that people would love to be in my position. I am super grateful for that opportunity.â
The Scotâs season last year was unfortunately cut short due to injury; however Tweedie is more than ready for the upcoming campaign.
âI was not happy with how the season was for me. I started to get out of that dip just as I got injured which is such bad timing, but I showed glimpses of what I could do and what my role should be in the team.â
Tweedie added: âKnowing I was on the right path before my injury gives me confidence coming back now to know that I was in a good place before the injury, I have rehabbed, I have got a better idea of my role this year and hopefully I can filter that into this year and get off to a good start.â
Tweedieâs high standards on and off the court last season resulted in her being awarded the Playerâs Player of the Year award, a gesture that the 6â4â centre appreciates greatly.
âThat is always a nice award to be given. To know that my teammates value what I bring outside of points and rebounds or statistics whether that is just being there for each other like trying to bring good energy, hype people up and be a shoulder for my teammates. For me that is more important, it means a lot because I know I am going in the right direction.â
Tweedie provided a very reassuring and confident evaluation on how the squad is shaping up ahead of the season opener against Oakland Wolves on the 29th of September.
She noted a difference in the mentality of players returning to the roster from last season, especially in young star Katie Januszewska (KJ).
âKJ’s mentality seems different this year, she seems as if she is extra ready to go, maybe a little more fired up. She has that confidence within herself, and she is so good for us.
âShahd [Abboud] too. She’s locked in. She brings so much expertise to the game, and she’s a true professional so to have that on the team is super nice.â
Tweedie was also named the BUCS Sport Premier North Conference Most Improved Player for the 2023/24 season.
âOf course it is nice to get an award where people recognise the improvements because sometimes the days feel like a drag, you are in the gym, getting shots up, you are sore, you are tired, you had class etc. This award makes it easier and reminds you of why you are doing these things.â
Talking about this seasonâs goals and hopes Tweedie said: âI want to be more self-confident; I want to be more present and just continue to express gratitude for the situation that I am in.
âThis is the last year of my masters; I am playing the sport I love. You never know what is going to happen.”
Leicester Riders finished pre-season with a professional 86-66 road win against Surrey 89ers.
Jaylin Hunter put in a complete performance from the point with 19 points and 6 assists to lead the game. He took over in the second to build Leiecsterâs first meaningful lead, and pulled the strings in a fluid Riders offence all game long.
He was backed by Zach Jacksonâs 17 points and 5 rebounds. The American took over from where Hunter left off in the second half to keep the Niners at armâs length. Charles Thompson also logged an impressive display with 10 points and 9 rebounds, dominating the paint for 5 offensive boards.
Missed open looks meant the score failed to demonstrate the level of Leicester’s play through 40 minutes. The Riders shot 9-31 from three and 40% from the field, but will back themselves to connect on those shots on a consistent basis this season.Â
The win puts Leicester in good stead going into their season opener against Bristol Flyers next Friday. Despite limited time together, the team played in impressive unison on both ends as they built towards the Super League Basketball season.Â
Tight opening stages
Despite the final score, there was little separation on the scoreboard early.
Jackson started aggressively, getting his head down for a finish at the rim and a pair of free throws following a strong drive to the hole, but Dame Adelekun responded with six points for the Niners, the big man showcasing his versatility with a variety of buckets. It was the Riders, however, who took the early lead through a fastbreak layup from Hunter.Â
It was a closely-fought, fast paced affair from the jump. No side built a real advantage throughout the opening period, but with the Riders off on their deep shooting early Surrey edged ahead.
Hunter connected from the corner late, before Blake Bowman spiked away a Niner layup attempt to end the first on a positive sequence, the score 20-19 to the hosts.Â
To begin the second, Bowman snatched the lead for Leicester with three trips to the foul line. He made it 27-26 with 6:46 remaining at the half.
The Niners seized momentum back in response with Jalen Ray and Mervin James making tough shots over good contests to take a five point lead.Â
Riders take the initiative
The lid lifted off the basket for Leicester as the clock ticked towards half. Hunter and Riley Abercrombie hit from three, and the Riders led 42-36 at the break courtesy of Hunterâs foul shots.
Thompson then got the second half underway from inside, logging seven quick points and a block to extend the Leicester lead. His final score of the stretch was a tough finish at the hoop putting back an Abercrombie missed triple, setting up an and-one play.Â
Thompsonâs dominance at the start of the third built a double digit advantage for the Riders. He was backed by Jackson, who hit his signature turnaround next time up before drawing an offensive foul.
Jackson scored seven straight, but it was generated by Thompson who was undeniable on the glass. Three offensive boards in a single possession saw him fly around the court with Rodman-esque physicality, too strong for the Niners frontcourt to handle.
He put the exclamation point on his third quarter performance with a monster one handed jam to follow a Jackson steal, the duo proving too much on both ends.
Keeping Surrey at armâs length
Three scores for the Niners saw them climb back into contention, making the score 61-51 with two minutes left in the third. But a three from JâRaan Brooks was the final bucket of the period, making it 64-51 with one left.
Noah Allen found his first triple of the game to start the final period in his first Riders action. Jackson made his way to the rim for another two, and Duke Shelton threw down a thunderous fastbreak slam as Leicester re-extended their lead.
Shelton, who was fouled on the dunk, made it 74-57 from the foul line with six minutes left. He broke away once again, stealing a loose pass and this time throwing down a windmill on the break emphatically.
Brooks found a rhythm from deep, connecting with his eighth points with a three with two minutes left. Hunter followed up with another from the corner to make the difference 19 points with his 19th points.Â
Thompson finished off the night at the rim and concluded the Ridersâ pre-season with a 20-point win.Â
Season opener
The Riders are back in action with their season opener next week, taking on Bristol Flyers at home.
Leicester Riders are set to play Surrey 89ers in their final action of the 2024-25 pre-season.
Itâs the first fixture between the Riders and the newly formed franchise, and a final opportunity for team chemistry building among Leicesterâs roster ahead of the season.
Hereâs how the fixture is shaping up.
Fixture informationÂ
Fixture: Surrey 89ers vs Leicester Riders
Date: Friday, September 20
Tip-off: 7 pm
Venue: Surrey Sports Park
Last pre-season test for Leicester
Played a week before the Riders’ season opener against Bristol Flyers, this game represents an opportunity to build on the positive first impressions given to fans from this new Riders group. A convincing 111-66 win against USA Select was a successful first performance for the Riders roster which features seven new additions.
And it was the new faces who stole the show. Riley Abercrombie led the scoring with 24 on his Riders debut, and he was backed by a contingent of players making their first Mattioli Arena outings.
The top five Riders scorers were summer additions, as Jaylin Hunter backed up his teammate with 19 points and 5 assists, and Charles Thompson dominated the paint with 12 points and 12 rebounds.
12 points and 7 rebounds from Ethan Wright made for a productive evening, and returning Rider Zach Jackson completed the top five scorers with 13.
âWe have a lot of talented players, and you saw that against USA Select,â said Head Coach Rob Paternostro. âIt was nice to see the groupâs versatility.â
Coach Rob was particularly impressed by the gameâs leading scorer, taking time to credit Abercrombieâs skillset post-game.Â
âHe can seriously shoot, but he can do much more than that. At 6â9â he has good size and heâs so strong- the future is really bright for him and weâre really happy with the way heâs started.â
Now the Riders turn to professional opposition in the 89ers, which will prove a different test to the one offered by USA Select last time out.
New beginnings in Surrey
A brand new franchise in Surrey has brought some familiar faces to the fray, which should provide a solid benchmark going into the Super League season.
A plethora of players signed with the Niners from the Surrey Scorchers, including a star from last season in Cam Gooden, GB international Andrew Lawrence and club legend Tayo Ogedengbe.
Joining them are some star summer signings, including the clubâs latest arrival Mervin James who was announced on Monday. James averaged 18.9 points and 6.1 rebounds in his senior year for Rider Broncos, adding elite scoring to the 89ers front court.
A two-game pre-season tour of Spain kicked off the Ninersâ first action as a franchise, before they returned home for three domestic fixtures. They hold a 2-3 record in their five pre-season games going into this one, but raised eyebrows with a 17 point win on the road in Newcastle.
The Niners have played out competitive games with British opposition in their last three fixtures, and while team building, chemistry and fitness are the primary focuses of the game, Surrey should provide Leicester with a broader understanding of where they place in the domestic landscape.
Season opener
We are just over a week away from our highly-anticipated season opener against Bristol Flyers on September 27!
Don’t miss it! Get your tickets here!
Attention, entertainers!
Leicester Riders are seeking game day entertainers for the upcoming 2024-25 season!
In line with the Club’s dedication to investing in and establishing connections with the local community, it will prioritise hiring local talent for game day entertainment throughout the year.
Are you a local dance group, singer, freestyler, or possess any other unique skills? This is your opportunity to showcase your talent and perform in front of thousands at Leicester’s largest indoor arena during a Riders game.
If you’re interested in performing, please contact [email protected] with the subject line “Game day entertainment.”
Don’t miss this chance to share your talent and add excitement to the Riders game day experience!
Leicester Riders got their pre-season underway with a 111-66 victory against USA Select.
It was a convincing first outing for the newly formed Riders roster, in front of a pre-season record attendance at the Mattioli Arena.
Riley Abercrombie led the scoring, putting up 24 points on his Riders debut, backed by Jaylin Hunter who went off for 19 points and 5 assists.
Charles Thompson dominated the paint with 12 points and 12 rebounds, and 12 points and 7 rebounds from Ethan Wright made for a productive evening for the Riders rookies.
A start to finish victory saw a team formed 10 days prior play together, the chemistry forming quickly among the group after one pre-season outing.
Leicester shot 54.7% from the field and dished 26 assists in the game on their way to a team win.
Scorers
Riley Abercrombie: 24
Jaylin Hunter: 19
Zach Jackson: 13
Ethan Wright: 12
Charles Thompson: 12
Blake Bowman: 11
J’Raan Brooks: 10
Duke Shelton 7
Conner Washington: 3
Red hot Riders start
Thompson got the game underway with dominance inside. He showed his strength from the jump, battling down low for an offensive board before a hook shot netted him his first points in Riders red, and Leicesterâs first of the 2024 pre-season.
The big man scored two quick buckets in the midst of a 7-2 Leicester start, and blocked Morgan Brown’s layup attempt. Abercrombie also enjoyed a red hot start, connecting with his first two attempts from deep. It was quickly 15-2, as returning Rider Zach Jackson forced USA Selectâs first timeout with a euro-step on the break.
The visitors bit back with two straight buckets halfway into the period, but Abercrombie put an end to any USA Select momentum with an and-one finish, bagging his ninth points of the evening.
A Riders scoring drought did open the door for USA Select on the back end of the quarter, as they found joy on the fastbreak and the offensive glass. A triple saw the score pegged back to 28-21 with a minute remaining.
But they re-found their groove to close the first, and Jackson finished the opening period with a floater to make it 34-23.
Building to the half
Conner Washington picked up from where his teammates left off after the first period. He got the second quarter underway with a triple, the 12-year veteran always a hot hand from outside. He and Abercrombie rebuilt the lead from distance throughout the second, and Hunter effectively pulled the strings from the point.
The Riders, who found difficulty controlling the glass at times early, secured defensive boards consistently in the second to hold their opponents to 12 second quarter points.
In a physical affair, Jackson had multiple trips to the foul line as the half came to a close, knocking down free throws to make it a 20 point Leicester lead. The sides entered the half with the Riders up 57-35.
Out of the break, Hunter got the second half going with a steal and a score, before pulling up in transition on the next play for three. It was a 30 point lead quickly in the third, courtesy of Abercrombie again adding two more on the fastbreak.
USA Select still had no answer for the Australian who brought his game tally to 20 at the foul line with 3:30 left in the third.
A scoring flurry for the visitors saw USA Select maintain the difference at 30 late in the third, draining a three on the buzzer to make it 81-52 with one to play.
Final flourish
Another and-one started the final period, this time Thompson taking the contact inside and connecting with the finish. Hunter followed up with a trip to the stripe next time up, and he made the score 85-52 with 8:42 left.
Hunter was hot in the fourth, and he drained a triple over a hand in his face to add three more to his game tally.
Blake Bowman brought the Ridersâ game score to 100 with a spin move inside, and Abercrombie capped off a player of the game performance and a convincing Leicester win with a three.
The Riders return to action on September 20, taking on Surrey Scorchers on the road ahead of the Super League Basketball season opener on September 27.
Tickets go on sale for the Ridersâ 2024 SLB home fixtures on Monday, September 9, at 12 pm.
Leicester Riders are set to tip-off their 2024 pre-season campaign against USA Select!
The newly built roster, with seven new faces ready to be welcomed by the Riders faithful, looks to find chemistry and understanding in the upcoming pre-season campaign, before for the debut season of Super League Basketball in September.
Their first test: a USA Select team featuring the next generation of American talent, looking to showcase their ability on their way to their first professional contracts.
Hereâs everything you need to know about the fixture.
Fixture information
Fixture: Leicester Riders vs USA Select
Date: Friday, September 6
Tip-off: 7 pm
Leicester basketball is back!
It has felt like a long wait, but Leicester are ready to take to the court for their first action of 2024-25. Itâs a pivotal pre-season for the Riders roster, who make their preparations for the debut season of Super League Basketball.
The seven new additions look to settle into Head Coach Rob Paternostroâs system quickly before competitive action begins, but the roster is blessed with experience to ease that process.
Among the summer signings is returning Rider Zach Jackson. His familiarity with both coach and club will be a valuable asset throughout pre-season. Jackson returned to the Club having spent three seasons with the Riders between 2020 and 2023. He played an integral role in the Ridersâ 2022 treble, winning four trophies during his time in the East Midlands.
âItâs been great seeing Coach Rob and some familiar faces on the team again,â said Jackson. âIâve always loved playing for Rob, and I canât wait to see the fans again.
âEveryone on the team always got along during my time here, which is a big thing in professional basketball. Everyone on this team seems to have good character.
âWe haven’t gone live yet to see how each other plays, but hopefully over the next few weeks weâll start building chemistry and get to know one another.â
This game presents an opportunity for exactly that. It will be the first test for the new team to suit up alongside one another in competitive action.
With four rookies joining the Riders ranks over the offseason, Charles Thompson, Jaylin Hunter, JâRaan Brooks and Riley Abercrombie, that is especially important. These are key minutes early in the professional careers of the rookies especially, as they look to grow quickly accustomed to the team against USA Select.
Our opponents: USA Select
Leicester Riders meeting with USA Select has become annual tradition, having established a relationship with the programme over previous decades.
USA Select are in the midst of a busy European tour, hoping to secure their players their first professional contracts. The programme has produced household names in British basketball over its 40 year existence, including Sheffield Sharks Head Coach Atiba Lyons.
The Riders have established a thriving relationship with the programme.
âLeicester Riders, like so many other clubs in the UK, has been phenomenal for us over the decades, which is why I never miss the UK out on these tours,â said Head Coach and General Manager Sean Kilmartin.
âThe club, and its vision in a sport that was always under the radar and never truly appreciated in the UK, has changed the way people look at basketball in the country. Their venue is the first of its kind, and it set the bar for the other clubs in the league.
âWhen my players can see all that, they see what professionalism looks like. They see how professionals put pride in their job, and their humility when they put their jerseys on for the fans.
âThe Riders fanbase is amazing. The love and respect we get from those fans is humbling. They really get it.â
Join the cavalry
Tickets are still available for tonight’s action! Standard tickets are ÂŁ10, courtside seating is ÂŁ25.
Leicester Riders basketball club is set to tip-off for the first time in 2024-25, suiting up pre-season against USA Select.
In response to fan feedback, the Club has pledged to improve the game-day experience at Leicester Riders game day. This includes offering various activities and entertainment to ensure an enjoyable evening for all attendees.
The Arena will feature a new food selection, fan zone activations and in game entertainment throughout the season.
Hereâs all you need to know about Leicester Riders game day against USA Select.
Fan Zone in Mattioli Courts
The Fan Zone, located in Mattioli Courts, will open at 5:45 pm before the game. It will feature a range of new entertainment and activities, and an improved food selection.
The Club’s Foundation has worked hard to bring an entertaining environment for its fans and visitors prior to games in Mattioli Courts.
Mattioli Courts will host a “beat the pro” free throw challenge, where fans are invited to beat a Riders playerâs free throw total on ten attempts, a local acoustic duo performance, Bollywood dancing, and the presence of USA Select team.
Our game day sponsors, Gresham Hotel, who have generously hosted the USA Select team for the game, have a stand at the fan zone, along with Edmunds and Slatter and Leicester Riders Foundation, who will explain to fans how they can get involved in basketball through their community sessions.
Doors to the main arena will then open at 6:30 pm, half an hour before tip-off.
Eating at the Arena
Mattioli Arena has introduced a new and improved menu for the 2024-25 season, offering a high-quality array of food options.
The menu includes fish goujons and chips, chefâs bake of the day, Indian snack selection with sauces, and warmed doughnuts served with strawberries, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce.
You can see the full menu and pricings below:
In Game Entertainment
As part of the Clubâs commitment to investing in and connecting with the local community, it will focus on employing local entertainment for game days.
For the game against USA Select, the club will showcase Bollywood dancing group, representing Leicester’s Indian community.
Throughout the 2024-25 season, fans can expect a variety of entertainment from local Leicestershire talent.
Those interested in performing on Riders game day can contact [email protected] for more information.
Additional information
Please note, all arena car parking, including accessible parking, must be pre-booked.
Click Here to book parking at the Arena.
See below for the possible parking locations.
Tickets to the game are available here, at ÂŁ10 for general admission and ÂŁ20 for courtside seating.
We hope you enjoy the game!
Super League Basketball (SLB) has confirmed the unification of Great Britainâs elite menâs and womenâs leagues under one banner.
Following a unanimous vote by shareholders of the Womenâs British Basketball League, both the menâs and womenâs elite competitions will now adopt SLB branding and work together to unlock the sportâs considerable potential across the country.
The Menâs Leagueâs nine member clubs will be joined by 11 counterparts in the Womenâs League, ensuring Super League Basketball is accessible for all, with the inaugural season set to get underway on September 27 2024.
By uniting under a single brand, the leagues will leverage each other’s strengths to create a more cohesive and powerful identity, increasing visibility and commercial opportunities across both men’s and women’s basketball in the UK.
Speaking following confirmation of the partnership, SLB Interim Chair Vaughn Millette said:
“Uniting under the Super League Basketball banner marks a pivotal moment for us. By bringing together the Men’s and Women’s Leagues, we are not just enhancing the visibility and reach of the sport, but also fostering a stronger, more unified community that will drive the growth and success of basketball across the UK.”
Chair of the Womenâs League, Jim Saker, added: “This unification under Super League Basketball represents an exciting step forward for the sport in the UK. We are excited to create a shared platform that amplifies the strengths of both leagues. This collaboration will not only elevate the game but also inspire a new generation of fans and players across the country.”
Fixture information for the Menâs League has already been announced, with tickets now
available to purchase via the club websites. Fixture information for the Womenâs League will be announced in the coming days.
Leicester Riders basketball club are excited to announce the signing of American Brittany Hodges for the 2024-25 season.
The 6â1â power forward suited up for the South Adelaide Panthers over the summer, averaging 18.11 points and 11.89 rebounds per outing. She had nine 20 point performances with the Panthers and 15 double doubles in 19 games.
Hodges has prior experience in British basketball, having played for Sevenoaks Suns in the 2022-23 season and averaging 10.1 points per game. She played an integral role on a 15-7 Suns team, leading them in rebounds with a 7.7 average.
An experienced professional, Hodges has played in Germany, Luxembourg and Australia after graduating from Furman University in 2015.
Hodges said: âI’m really excited to be a part of Leicester Riders! Thank you to Coach Ben and the coaching staff for the opportunity to join the team, and contribute to what I hope will be a successful season.
“I can’t wait to meet my teammates and get to work. See you all soon!”
Head Coach Ben Stanley added: âWe’re very excited to get Britt on board this season. She brings not only professionalism and experience to the club, but a high skill level and real strength and toughness on the interior.
âWe’re anticipating a big year from her both on the court and in terms of her leadership with the group.â
Leicester Riders, the UKâs oldest professional basketball club, have announced a pioneering new partnership with Ygam, a charity with a mission to prevent children and young people from experiencing gaming and gambling harms.
This collaboration, a first for any team in British basketball, signifies a major stride in the Ridersâ commitment to the digital safeguarding of all children and young people associated with the Club.
Through its Foundation’s Academy and partnerships with Charnwood College and Loughborough University, the Riders organisation’s commitment to young people extends beyond the basketball court. Collaborating with Ygam further enhances the organisation’s capacity to safeguard and equip young people with essential skills and knowledge to thrive in later life.
Ygam has been appointed Leicester Riders ‘Charity of the Year’ for the forthcoming 24/25 season, alongside the Riders Foundation.
The latest report from the Gambling Commission revealed that 40% of 11- to 17-year-olds have had some experience of gambling over the last 12 months. 1 in 4 have spent their own money on gambling in the past 12 months and 35% of young people have encountered gambling advertisements at sports events. Research from the Bristol Hub for Gambling Harms revealed that basketball has one of the highest gambling participation rates for young people aged 18-24 in the UK, compared to other popular betting sports like football, horse racing, and combat? sports.
Basketball is a growing sport at grass roots level in the UK, with nearly 1.25 million children and young people playing the sport at least once a week, and over 1200 licensed coaches nationwide. Popularity of professional basketball in the UK has also seen immense growth over recent years, where viewership of live and on-demand games across YouTube and Sky Sports has jumped from 1.4 million to over 20 million since the 2022/23 season.
This partnership aims to build greater awareness and educate more children and young people about the potential risks associated with gaming and gambling, both within a sporting context and beyond.
Simon Winfield, Interim CEO of Leicester Riders, said: âWeâre excited to be working with Ygam. We have a deep admiration for their efforts in promoting gaming and gambling awareness among the youth of today.
âThe Riders organisation takes seriously its responsibility to the young people who have entrusted us with their futures, both at Charnwood College and Loughborough University. A large part of that responsibility is ensuring that they are well set up for life beyond the Riders. Through Ygamâs education on the potential risks and dangers associated with gaming and gambling, we are fulfilling our commitment to ensuring their well-being and long-term success.
âWeâre also excited at the prospect of helping to educate thousands of young people across Leicestershire, who we work closely with through the Leicester Riders Foundation. Through this partnership, we uphold the Club’s dedication to its local community, ensuring that we leave a lasting, positive influence on the lives of generations to come.â
Sacha Kent, Programme Lead for Education, Sports, and Youth at Ygam, said: “We are honoured to partner with Leicester Riders for the upcoming season and extend our reach within the sport of basketball. With gaming and gambling so heavily intertwined with professional sports, it is vital that we are doing all we can to safeguard all young people who participate in the sport they love.
âLeicester Riders do fantastic work in surrounding communities, including one of the country’s largest Basketball Apprentice schemes at Charnwood College, and a partnership with Loughborough University. The club’s community programmes also reach nearly 20,000 young people from across the city and wider county, and we are excited to use sport as a vehicle to make a real difference in the lives of young people, helping them navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.”
The partnership will involve key home games dedicated to Ygam and the charity’s work, with awareness raising and fundraising events throughout the season, alongside delivering Ygamâs City & Guilds Assured CPD training to all coaches and staff associated with the club.
More details about the partnership and the initiatives planned for the upcoming season will be announced soon.
Leicester Riders basketball club is excited to confirm its 2024-25 Super League Basketball schedule!
The highly anticipated debut season of the SLB is nearly upon us, and we can now share our schedule for 2024-25.
We will play across four competitions, starting off with the Trophy at the end of September.
Here’s how the season will shape up:
SLB Trophy
The season will begin with the Trophy group phase on Friday, September 27, where we will host Bristol Flyers at 19:45 in our first competitive action of 2024-25.
The group phase is a round robin tournament with the teams split into two groups, the Riders group featuring London Lions, Surrey 89ers and Bristol Flyers, who will be played once home and away.
We conclude our Trophy group phase against London Lions at home on Sunday, October 27 at 16:00.
The winners and runners-up in each group will qualify for the two-legged semi-finals, with the winner of Group A facing the runner-up of Group B and vice-versa.
A single-leg Final will take place in January 2025.
SLB Championship
Our Championship campaign begins at home on Saturday, November 2, against Surrey 89ers at 18:00.
The Championship features all nine SLB franchises playing each other four times (twice at home, twice away from home) over a 23-week season, equating to 32 games per club.
Our final game of the 2024-25 Championship season will be away at Newcastle Eagles on Friday, April 25 at 19:30.
SLB Cup
The SLB Cup will begin at the quarter-final stage, with the Riders’ fixture being played between February 7-9, against an opponent to be decided.
A random draw will take place to draw seven teams straight into the Cup quarter-finals, with the remaining two franchises playing a single-leg qualifier for the chance to join the other seven teams in the next round.
The Cup semi-finals will be two-legged ties, and the single-leg Final will take place in March at a venue to be confirmed.
SLB Playoffs
Following the conclusion of the Championships season, the top eight placed teams from the standings will qualify for the Playoffs.
Both quarter-finals and semi-finals will be played over two legs, with the quarter-final ties assigned by Championship seeding (1st vs 8th, 2nd vs 7th, 3rd vs 6th, 4th vs 5th).
The semi-final ties will be assigned by the highest remaining seed facing the lowest remaining seed and the second-highest facing the second-lowest.
In both rounds, the higher seed has the choice of home leg.
A single-leg Final will take place in London on May 18 with venue information to be confirmed.
You can find our full fixture list below:
| Date | Tip-off | Competition | Opponent | H/A |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Friday, September 27 | 19:45 | Trophy | Bristol Flyers | H |
| Sunday, October 6 | 16:00 | Trophy | London Lions | A |
| Saturday, October 19 | 18:00 | Trophy | Surrey 89ers | A |
| Wednesday, October 23 | 19:45 | Trophy | Surrey 89ers | H |
| Friday, October 25 | 19:30 | Trophy | Bristol Flyers | A |
| Sunday, October 27 | 16:00 | Trophy | London Lions | H |
| Saturday, November 2 | 18:00 | Championship | Surrey 89ers | A |
| Friday, November 8 | 19:45 | Championship | Sheffield Sharks | H |
| Sunday, November 17 | 16:00 | Championship | Sheffield Sharks | A |
| Friday, November 29 | 19:45 | Championship | Manchester | H |
| Sunday, December 1 | 17:30 | Championship | Cheshire Phoenix | A |
| Friday, December 6 | 19:30 | Championship | Bristol Flyers | A |
| December 6-8 | Trophy semi-finals | TBD | ||
| Friday, December 13 | 19:45 | Championship | Caledonia Gladiators | H |
| Friday, December 20 | 19:30 | Championship | Surrey 89ers | A |
| Sunday, December 22 | 17:30 | Championship | Newcastle Eagles | H |
| Friday, December 27 | 19:30 | Championship | Bristol Flyers | H |
| Monday, December 30 | 19:30 | Championship | London Lions | H |
| Friday, January 3 | 19:30 | Championship | Newcastle Eagles | A |
| Friday, January 10 | 19:30 | Championship | Manchester | H |
| Sunday, January 12 | 14:00 | Cup | Manchester | A |
| Friday, January 17 | 19:30 | Championship | Caledonia Gladiators | H |
| Sunday, January 19 | 16:00 | Championship | London Lions | A |
| Saturday, January 24 | 19:30 | Championship | Caledonia Gladiators | A |
| Friday, January 31 | 19:30 | Championship | Bristol Flyers | H |
| Thursday, February 13 | 19:30 | Championship | Cheshire Phoenix | H |
| Friday, February 28 | 19:30 | Championship | Surrey 89ers | H |
| Sunday, March 9 | 15:00 | Championship | Manchester | A |
| Sunday, March 16 | 16:00 | Championship | Sheffield Sharks | A |
| Friday, March 21 | 19:30 | Championship | Newcastle Eagles | H |
| Sunday, March 23 | 17:00 | Championship | Bristol Flyers | A |
| Friday, March 28 | 19:30 | Championship | Bristol Flyers | A |
| Friday, April 4 | 19:30 | Championship | Cheshire Phoenix | H |
| Sunday, April 6 | 16:00 | Championship | Caledonia Gladiators | A |
| Friday, April 11 | 19:30 | Championship | Sheffield Sharks | H |
| Thursday, April 17 | 19:30 | Championship | Surrey 89ers | H |
| Sunday, April 20 | 16:30 | Championship | London Lions | H |
| Wednesday, April 23 | 19:30 | Championship | London Lions | A |
| Friday, April 25 | 19:30 | Championship | Newcastle Eagles | A |
| Sunday, April 27 | 16:00 | Championship | Caledonia Gladiators | H |
Please note, these fixtures may be subject to change. For our up to date fixture list, please click here.
Ticket information for our upcoming SLB games will be confirmed in the near future.
Super League Basketball, the new elite basketball competition in the UK, has announced the iconic American sports brand Reebok, as the official kit supplier and basketball sneaker of the league with a multi-year partnership.
A dominant force on the court, Reebok’s legacy is rooted in innovative designs and iconic
endorsements by some of the game’s greatest players. The brand has made strides in its re-entry to the sport and appointing basketball legends Shaquille OâNeal and Allen Iverson as President and Vice President of Basketball, respectively.
Partnering with the Super League Basketball reinforces Reebok’s rightful place in the sport.
âWe are thrilled to partner with the newly established Super League Basketball,â said Todd Krinsky, CEO of Reebok. âThis collaboration represents a perfect synergy between Reebok’s storied basketball heritage and the vibrant future of the elite league in the UK. We are excited to bring our innovative designs and high-performance gear to the court, and we can’t wait to see the players and fans embrace the new kits this season.â
Starting in September with the 2024/25 season, all the Super League Basketball teams will be equipped with elite Reebok-designed playing kits, training kits, travel attire and basketball sneakers. Fans will also have the opportunity to purchase replica kits for the 2024/25 season, with the unveiling of the new kits scheduled for early September.
Paul Blake, owner of Newcastle Eagles commented: âSpeaking on behalf of all the basketball clubs competing in our newly launched Super League, Iâm delighted that weâve been able to secure this partnership with Reebok. Itâs been a challenging few months for our sport, but to attract a brand of Reebokâs status, heritage and association as we launch our new league is fantastic.â
âIt is perfect timing for this partnership as Reebok relaunches its performance basketball division and we embark on new future as Super League Basketball. Seeing stars like Shaq and Allen Iverson involved in a project that touches our League is incredibly exciting and with them on-board, we look forward to achieving great things both on and off the court.â
Nick Woodhouse, President and CBO, Authentic Brands Group, owner of the Reebok brand said: “We are delighted to witness Reebok’s renaissance in the basketball arena through this collaboration with the Super League Basketball. This partnership blends Reebok’s legacy with the energy of the league’s future, creating a fusion of style and performance that will echo through the courts.”
John Carden, CEO of Sports Hub Group, UK distributor for Reebok said: âBeing able to bring two amazing brands together in Reebok and the League is a real personal achievement, and I canât wait to see this pairing brought to life when the kit is launched next month.â
Itâs with regret that we have taken the decision to defer the Fanâs Q&A Session scheduled for September 19 to an alternative event as soon as possible.
Whilst we are really keen to present our new teams to our loyal fans and have you get to know them better, the changing schedule this season and practice commitments of our top teams mean we have to look for a better date.
Weâll be in touch with those who have already purchased tickets to arrange a full refund and will share details of an alternative event as soon as possible.
The Leicester Riders family apologise for this change of plans, but we look forward to seeing you all for our first pre-season game against USA Select.
Ahead of a hotly anticipated debut campaign, Super League Basketball announced the four competitions that will make up the inaugural season, which is set to tip off on Friday September 27.
The SLB have introduced four formats for the 2024/25 season which pay homage to the storied history of top-flight British basketball, with Championship, Cup, Playoff and Trophy competitions set to keeps fans on the edges of their seats throughout the year.
Getting underway in late September, the Trophy tournament takes centre-stage from the tip-off as five weeks of group stage action will see SLB fans to the start of November, when the Championship campaign commences.
Utilita Arena Birmingham will host the first major Final in SLB history on January 26, 2025, as the Trophy title will be up for grabs, representing the first in a trio of showpiece events taking place before the end of the season.
Continuing the history of one of British basketballâs most storied competitions, the SLB have established a Cup competition which will take place over six weeks from February ahead of a Final in March at a venue to be confirmed, before the road to the Playoffs resumes with the Championship action concluding on April 27.
The top eight teams in the SLB will qualify for the post-season, battling in two-legged quarter- and semi-finals for a place in London on May 18 in the Playoff Final to compete for the biggest prize in British basketball. Venue information for the Cup and Playoff Finals will be announced in the coming weeks.
Speaking following confirmation of the competition formats, SLB Interim Chair Vaughn Millette said:
âWeâre delighted to be launching our inaugural season with four fantastic competitions for our fans to look forward to. British basketball has a rich history and weâre pleased to pay tribute to that heritage with these competitions, setting the stage for a spectacular SLB season.
âThe excitement for the return of elite level British basketball is evident and weâre delighted to be able to give the fans what they want from September 27, with a full fixture list for all of our competitions to be released in the coming days.â
Leicester Riders prepare for Super League Basketball against USA Select on September 6.
Season tickets for the 2024-25 season are also on sale now.
The Leicester Riders are renowned for our game night atmosphere and we are looking for energetic and fun additions to our Game Night Crew to help us bring even MORE entertainment to all those attending the Mattioli Arena ahead of our new season tipping off next month.
Game Night Crew members are responsible for managing our in-game entertainment, delivering
birthdays, mascot packages and more, plus ensuring our fans have an enjoyable visit!
Here are a selection of the Volunteer roles we are recruiting for:-
a) Half time : Ensuring our half time entertainers are ready, willing and on time
b) Birthday Parties : Meet, greet and deliver all our amazing birthday party packages
c) Mascots : Meet, greet and deliver our growing number of Mascots on game night
d) Chuck a Duck : a Manic game which requires speed, accuracy and fun! Selling the ducks and then picking them up â all great fun!
e) Guard of Honour: Meet, greet and ensure our Guard of Honour are on time, in place and have a great time!
The above positions are Volunteer only where you will receive a complimentary game night ticket in exchange for your help. Some roles will require a full DBS check.
For more information, or to show interest in these roles, please contact [email protected].
Closing date for these applicants will be 30th August 2024
Leicester Riders basketball club are excited to welcome JâRaan Brooks to their 2024-25 roster.
The 6â9â American signs from UC San Diego Tritons, where he played his final two collegiate seasons.
Brooks averaged 5.2 points and 3.4 rebounds per game in his final year with the Tritons. He was named to the Winter Big West All-Academic Team, named Academic All-District by College Sports Communicators for his work in the classroom and on the court and earned NABC Honors Court academic recognition.
Prior to joining the University California San Diego, Brooks played his freshman year at USC, before transferring to the University of Washington. A 2018 graduate of Garfield High School in Seattle, Brooks led Bulldogs to a state championship in his senior year.
Brooks is a versatile offensive threat, able to step outside and shoot from distance (hitting on 38% of his looks in his final collegiate season), pass and score out of the post and finish at the rim.
He is the 11th member of the Riders’ 2024-25 roster, and the sixth American, ahead of the Super League Basketball season.Â
Brooks said: âIâm beyond excited for the opportunity from the Riders and Coach Rob for allowing me to be able to achieve my dream goal of playing ball at the pro level.
âIâve heard nothing but great things about the Club and city, canât wait to get out to Leicester to meet the team and staff, and as well as play in front of the Riders fans. Iâm ready to get to work!â
Head Coach Rob Paternostro added: âJâRaan is a versatile big who can play either the 4 or the 5. He has a skill set that will add something different to the frontcourt players we have on our roster
âHe is versatile defensively: he is a player who can guard multiple positions and who plays with a high IQ. Weâre looking forward to having him on our team this season.â
Your first chance to see J’Raan in action is September 6, as Leicester Riders get their pre-season underway against USA Select.
Leicester Riders are excited to announce the signing of American Noah Allen for the 2024-25 season.
The 6â7â wing is a nine-year pro, who played most recently for Culiacan in the Mexican first division. 2022-23 saw Allen suit up for Club Comunicaciones in Argentina, putting up 14 points, 5.6 rebounds and 5.4 assists per game.Â
His professional experience has seen him play two seasons in the NBA G-League, and log 10 points and 6 rebounds per game in 2019 for the Capital City Go-Go.
Allen also suited up for WĂŒrzburg Baskets in the German first division in 2019-2020, averaging 7 points and 5 rebounds, played two seasons in the Spanish second division for HLA Alicante and Zunder Palencia, and averaged 11 points per game in the Mexican first division for Soles de Mexicali.
Prior to Allenâs professional career, he spent his first three college seasons with the prestigious UCLA Bruins, before transferring to the University of Hawaiâi. He put up 15.7 points and 5.8 rebounds as a senior in a history-making season.
Allen earned all-Big West first team honours, led the team in points, rebounds and steals, and became the first Warrior in 21 years, and just the fifth in school history, to score 30 or more four times in a season.
Allen said: âIt feels amazing to have the opportunity to play for this organisation! Iâm very grateful and excited to get out there! I hope to see everyone soon!â
Allen is Head Coach Rob Paternostroâs fifth American signing of the offseason, following the additions of Jaylin Hunter, Zach Jackson, Ethan Wright and Charles Thompson previously.
He added: âWe are excited to have Noah for this season . He is a veteran player with good experience in many different leagues.
âHe is a versatile player with good size who can be effective in many different spots on the floor and has shown the ability to defend multiple positions.â
Super League Basketball (SLB) is pleased to confirm the line-up for its inaugural campaign:
Nine teams from England and Scotland will take to the court on the opening weekend of SLB
action at the end of September, with further franchises expected to join this exciting cohort
for the 2025/26 campaign.
Speaking on behalf of SLB, Interim Chairman Vaughn Millette said: âWe are pleased to be able
to welcome new ownership into the league with Sherwood Family Investment Office securing
the Manchester franchise; and Lithuanian tech-group Tesonet, shareholder of leading
EuroLeague organisation Ćœalgiris Kaunas, successfully completing the purchase of London
Lions.
âOur focus is to strategically grow this league with sustainable and secure partners. The
consortium of clubs has been impressed by the international attention we have attracted
since being awarded the menâs professional licence by our governing body, the British
Basketball Federation.
âThe process for securing franchises for this inaugural season is now complete. We are
delighted that there is further competition for franchises for the 2025/26 season, and we will
be announcing the formal franchise expansion process during the forthcoming season.
âAll ownership groups have now signed up to SLBâs operating terms and we are delighted that
weâve been able to secure the partners that we have thus far. Our clubs are looking forward
to getting the new season underway with fixtures and the competition formats to be released
in the coming days.
âThank you to all the fans for their patience. We canât wait to welcome you to Super League
Basketball.â
Former Great Britain captain, current all-time GB menâs record cap holder, and co-owner of
the Surrey 89ers Dan Clark added:
âIt has been an extremely busy off-season and has taken a huge amount of work to get the
new league ready for September.
âThereâs a great mix of continued long-term ownership and new investment into the league.
Iâve been hugely impressed by the commitment from all the club owners to work collegiately
and collaboratively alongside the British Basketball Federation to bring a sustainable and elite
offering to the court in the coming weeks.
âI personally canât wait for top-flight basketball to resume. The level of passion and support
for our sport is higher than ever and it will be great to see British basketball fans cheering
their teams to success.â
Leicester Riders get their pre-season campaign underway on September 6 against USA Select.
To see the Riders 2024-25 roster in action for the first time, get tickets here!
Leicester Riders basketball club can announce the retention of Shahd Abboud for the 2024-25 season.
Abboud signed a two-year deal last summer, contracting her to the Riders until the end of the 2024-25 season.
The Israeli international averaged 5.3 points per game in the Womenâs British Basketball League, stepping up in the biggest moments of the year including a 13 point performance against Essex Rebels in the playoffs.
Abboud went off for nine points in the fourth, leading the Riders down the stretch to a 81-79 win. Her clutch performance saw Leicester through to the semi-final in front of a home Mattioli Arena crowd.
Prior to landing in Leicester, she represented her country in the 2021 European Championships, and regularly played for Israeli senior team since 2018.
In 2018, the Nazereth-native was named the first-ever Arab-Israeli captain of an Israeli Premier League team by Hapoel Petah Tikva.
âIâm really happy to be back for another season,â said Abboud. âThis offseason has been great for me and I’m excited for this upcoming year. I canât wait to meet all my new teammates and get to work!â
Head Coach Ben Stanley added: âWeâre incredibly happy to have Shahd back with the group this year.
âFirst and foremost, weâre returning another fantastic person to the group, which is a big key. Weâre also returning someone who is highly skilled, who has been an MVP at a very high level.
âShe knows the game, and although she had a difficult season last year with injuries, we feel she has put in the work this offseason to be in a good place physically and ready to contribute. We think this could be a really big year for her.â
Leicester Riders are thrilled to announce the re-signing of Duke Shelton to their 2024/25 roster.
The American, who holds a British passport, first signed in Leicester in January 2024, putting up a productive 6.7 points and 5.3 rebounds in 16 minutes per outing. Shelton brings a wealth of experience to Leicester, having played nine seasons of professional basketball across Europe.
Prior to joining the Riders, Shelton played two seasons for the Newcastle Eagles. The 6â10â forward averaged a double-double in ten games for the Eagles in the 2021/22 season, logging 14.1 points and 10.5 rebounds. The 28-year-oldâs European experience has seen him compete in Israel, Finland and Slovakia.
Shelton is an energetic force in the paint on both ends, using his length and vertical ability to rise and swat away shots, and his relentless hustle to run in transition and lead the charge up the court for breakaway buckets.
His efforts were epitomised by his 14 points and 16 rebounds in 22 minutes of action against the Plymouth City Patriots in March, where he grabbed 6 offensive boards in the Ridersâ double overtime win.
âIâm excited to be back,â said Shelton. âIâm ready for the great atmosphere that the fans bring and Iâm looking forward to playing alongside my teammates. I believe we have a really good opportunity ahead and I canât wait to get started.â
Head Coach Rob Paternostro added: âWeâre really happy to have Duke back with the Riders. Last season we were impressed with his consistent effort in games and in practices. He was a true professional, and he lifted us with his energy.Â
âDuke is a frontcourt player that can run the floor, heâs active on the glass on both ends and he’s someone that plays with passion and emotion.Â
âHe’s a veteran. Duke has been around professional basketball for a while, and hell add veteran leadership to the locker room.â
Want to see Duke in action? Tickets to our pre-season opener against USA Select are on sale now!
âHustle.â When asked what defines his game, thatâs how Charles Thompson responded.
This should come as no surprise. Itâs a mentality passed down a generation, from Charlesâ dad, Tony âThe Tigerâ Thompson, who fought for a better life in the boxing ring throughout his sonâs childhood.
Tony Thompson first entered the ring aged 26, turning professional two years later. He went on to have a 40-7 professional career, having fought for the unified world heavyweight titles against Wladimir Klitschko on two occasions.
Not only a fearless fighter in the ring, Tony Thompson was a role model outside of it.
âIt’s how I always knew him,â said Charles Thompson, reflecting on his childhood. âHe was getting up at 4 am, working out, coming back home and working out again three or four times a day.
âThat played a huge role in my development, because I saw what toughness looks like. My dad gave me a great image to look up to.â
From Tony âThe Tigerâ, to Towson Tigers
His dadâs work ethic is evident in Charles, who became Towson Universityâs all-time leader in minutes played.
Thompson showed his heart and hustle from the first tip-off in college to earn himself valuable playtime in his freshman year.
âEven as a freshman when there were people more talented than me on the team, I found a way on the floor. I think that makes me more malleable and versatile, with a willingness to do whatever I need to do to get out there and help the team.â
In his first collegiate year, Thompson had a 17 rebound game. It was tied for ninth best single-game rebounding performance, and the second best by a Towson freshman, in programme history.
Thompson impressed with his effort as a freshman, seeing him in an increased role as a sophomore, which he responded to with a huge jump in production.
After averaging 3.2 points per game a year prior, Thompson put up 9.1 points, 6.1 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game as a sophomore, and earned a place on the CAA All-Defensive Team.
Seeing your own true potential is a skill in itself, and that was the key to Thompsonâs growth throughout his five years at Towson.
âI’ve always seen myself as a better player than I truly am at any point, and feeling that way means Iâm always looking at where I can get better.
âConsistency is what I’ve learned. Nothing happens overnight, improvement happens over months and years of maintaining the same process.â
Defensive mindset
Thompson was named to the CAA All-Defensive team four seasons in a row. He averaged over 1.5 blocks per game in every one of those seasons, making his name as an anchor in the paint and a force at the rim.
But above his 6â8â stature, explosive vertical and lengthy wingspan, Thompson cites his work ethic and commitment as the leading attributes for his defensive talents.
âDefence is just hard work. I believe that everybody has the capability of being a great defender even without the physical tools. A lot of it is mental concentration and physical effort. Anybody can be great on defence. All you have to do is communicate and show effort.
âIf I was playing badly on the defensive end, people would question whether I’m giving max effort. That’s something that I really care about.â
Defence is part of the fabric of Leicester Riders. The greatest teams in Leicester have leaned on their hard-nosed, gritty resistance as the bedrock of their play, and Head Coach Rob Paternostro sees Thompson as the anchor for his 2024-25 defence.
âCoach Rob told me that one of the things he was looking forward to seeing was me leading the defence, anchoring the defence, and being a contributor on that end.
âDefence can give you a spark of life, especially when things aren’t working on the offensive end. Sometimes shots don’t fall, but your defence can be there for you night, in night out.âÂ
âIf you had 13 guys like Charles Thompson, you wouldn’t need coaches.â
Those were the words of Towson Head Coach Pat Skerry, who coached Thompson for his five-year tenure at the University.
His hard work and on-court mentality has won the respect of coaches and teammates alike, building a well-earned reputation of being a true professional.
âEveryone we spoke with talked about what a great leader he is both on and off the court,â said Paternostro following Thompsonâs signing. âWe are thrilled to add him to our locker room.â
The Cavalry will soon get to know Thompson after he lands in Leicester for the upcoming season.
Not only is he set to light up Leicester on the court, but heâll bring the work ethic, mentality and personality seen in the legends who have worn the Riders red before him.Â
Want to see Thompson make his Riders debut? We start our pre-season campaign against USA Select on September 6!
Leicester Riders are excited to announce the signing of 6â9â forward Riley Abercrombie for the 2024-25 season.
The Australian, who possesses a UK passport, signs from the Illawarra Hawks in Australiaâs NBL 1, where he averaged 23.2 points and 7.7 rebounds per game. Abercrombieâs season with the Hawks featured back-to-back 38 point games, five 30 point outings and six double doubles over 19 games.
Prior to Abercrombieâs summer in Illawarra, he played his graduation year with the University of North Colorado. He averaged 7.6 points and 3.8 rebounds per game over his two seasons with the Bears, logging his best statistical season as a senior with 8.2 points per game.
The Wollongong native declared for Boise State as a freshman, before transferring to Rice University for two seasons. At Rice, Abercrombie was a two-time member of the Conference USA Commissioner’s Honor Roll, and was named to the NABC Honors Court in 2021.
At 6â9â, Abercrombie can take defenders off the dribble, use his deep range to knock down shots and can score with his back to the basket. As a three level scorer, he poses a threat from anywhere on the court, and his size allows him to impact the boards on both ends.
Abercrombie said: âIâm extremely excited to be a part of the Leicester Riders this upcoming season. Itâs a great club and with an amazing support system behind it.
âI canât wait to be in England and put on a Leicester Riders jersey!â
Abercrombie is Head Coach Rob Paternostroâs eighth signing of the summer ahead of the 2024-25 season.
He added: âWe are looking forward to having Riley on our team. He has good size and has the ability to stretch defences with his three point shooting. He is also an effective rebounder who has shown the ability to play team basketball.
âHe has had an excellent summer playing in Australia, where he put up some impressive numbers. We are looking forward to working with him this season.âÂ
Want to see Abercrombie in action? 2024-25 season tickets and tickets to our pre-season opener against USA Select are on sale now!
Leicester Riders are excited to announce the signing of Julia Chandler for the 2024-25 season.
6â2â Canadian âJuiceâ signs from the City of Joondalup Wolves, where she averaged 14.08 points per game in the Australian NBL1 West League.
An impressive 28 points and 10 rebounds in April was the highlight of her tenure in Australia, and was one of six double doubles in 13 games for the Wolves.
Chandler began her professional career playing for Monaco in Franceâs top division, averaging 8.4 points and 6.5 rebounds during her time there. She remained in France for her second professional season, suiting up for FCL Feytait and averaging 8.7 points and 4.7 rebounds per game.
Her collegiate career began at the prestigious Syracuse University, where she remained until her sophomore season. She then transferred to the University of Dayton for her junior and senior years, appearing in all 33 games as a senior.
Chandler brings valuable size from the front court and a wealth of international experience to the Riders. She is Head Coach Ben Stanleyâs second addition to the 2024-25 roster, following the signing of American guard Kaia Harrison.
âI’m thrilled to be joining Leicester Riders!,â said Chandler. âThank you to Coach Ben and the coaching staff for the opportunity to be a part of the Riders organisation.
âI can’t wait to get to Leicester, meet my teammates and get to work. I’m looking forward to helping the team, and having a successful season!
âSee you soon!â
Stanley added: âJuice will be a great addition to the squad. Sheâs of high pedigree, having played in a lot of tough leagues over the course of her career and put up impressive numbers.Â
âShe has such a versatile skillset for her size and position which will allow us to play in a lot of different ways. Juice provides strength and depth in the front court, and has shown her ability over multiple seasons to be a force on the boards.Â
âShe was also one of the most enjoyable recruitment calls Iâve ever had. Sheâs an incredibly honest person, and Iâm really looking forward to having her as part of our squad this season.â
Leicester Riders are excited to welcome back Zach Jackson for the 2024-25 season.
Jackson returns to the Club having spent three seasons with the Riders between 2020 and 2023. He played an integral role in the Ridersâ 2022 treble, winning four trophies during his time in the East Midlands.
During the 2022-23 season, Jackson averaged 16.2 points and 5.6 rebounds per game, shooting 55% from the field and 43% from three. He led the Riders in points, rebounds and steals during the 2023 Playoffs, making the final at the O2 Arena with 15.6 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.8 steals per game.
Jacksonâs career-high night in Leicester came against the Newcastle Eagles, where he put up 29 points and 9 rebounds and went 10-13 from the field in an 87-79 win. It was one of 11 20-point games during the 2022-23 season for the Wichita native, who went off for 20 points and 9 rebounds in the Playoff Final against the London Lions.
Prior to the Riders, Jackson spent his rookie season in Ukraine for Kharkivski Sokoly, averaging 12 points and 4 rebounds per game. He went on to sign for Shonan United BC of the Japanese B.League last summer, before returning to the Riders for the upcoming season.
The 6â6â wing is respected as an elite scorer, rebounder and defender, and is known for stepping up in the biggest moments and delivering clutch plays.
Jackson said: âIt feels good to be coming back to play for Coach Rob, and play in front of the fans that weâre a part of a very good time in my career.
âI hope to help win some more trophies for the organisation. I look forward to getting back to Leicester and getting to work.â
Head Coach Rob Paternostro added: âItâs fantastic to have a player like Zach back. In his time with the club he was a pleasure to work with both on and off the court.
âHe knows how to win, he has played in a lot of big games and has made so many important winning plays in his time in Leicester.
âZach is a versatile player who is comfortable playing the two through four positions, which should give us many different combinations to use throughout the season.â
Jackson is Paternostroâs sixth addition to the Riders 2024-25 roster, and fourth American following the signings of Jaylin Hunter, Ethan Wright and Charles Thompson.
Want to see Jackson back in Riders red? 2024-25 season tickets and tickets to our pre-season opener against USA Select are on sale now!
Leicester Riders are excited to announce the signing of American forward Charles Thompson for the 2024-25 season.Â
6â8â Thompson will suit up for his rookie season in professional basketball after five seasons with Towson Tigers in the NCAA Division 1.
He averaged 12 points and 8 rebounds as a senior at Towson, and 10 points and 9 rebounds in his graduation year, leading the team to four winning seasons during his collegiate tenure. He graduated with an 87-51 record over five years.
Photo credit: Kenny Storck
Thompson finished his college career as Towsonâs all-time leader in games played and games started, and second in all-time minutes. He is one of three players all-time to score over 1,000 points and grab 1,000 rebounds for the University, and was named to the All-CAA Third Team and CAA All-Defensive Team in 2023-24.Â
He ranks third in all-time in total rebounds and field goal percentage, and fourth in blocks. An efficient scorer and dominant force in the paint, Thompson averaged over 50% shooting from the field in every season for Towson. His physical play on both ends made for a prolific college highlight reel, and he looks to build on that electric portfolio with the Riders.Â
His father, Tony “The Tiger” Thompson, was a heavyweight boxer who retired with a 40-7 record. Tony Thompson had two fights for the unified world heavyweight titles in 2008 and 2012, both times against Wladimir Klitschko.
Charles now looks to bring his own heavyweight style of play to British basketball.
Thompson commented: âIt feels great to be signed to the team. I can’t wait to get over there, meet the guys and get my feet on the ground and running. I am excited for this opportunity that I have been given and will surely make the most of it!â
Head Coach Rob Paternostro added: âWe are thrilled to add Charles to our team for next season. He had a highly decorated career at Towson where his team won 20 or more games the last three seasons.
âHe has put up some excellent numbers and is a very impressive defensive player, whose strength, quickness and mobility will be an excellent addition to our team.
âWe are thrilled to add him to our locker room. Everyone we spoke with talked about what a great leader he is both on and off the court.”
Thompson makes the Ridersâ 2024-25 roster six-strong so far, following the signings of Americans Ethan Wright and Jaylin Hunter, the re-signing of club legend Conner Washington and retention of the young British pairing of Blake Bowman and Victor Ndoukou.Â
âTo play professional basketball.â That was Kaia Harrisonâs response when asked what her post-graduation plans were when she first arrived at Wake Forest University.
145 games later (the second most in school history), she signed her first professional contract with Leicester Riders, where she will play her rookie season.
Five years competing in a brutally tough conference, the ACC, has tested Harrison in every way imaginable. This isnât an inexperienced rookie ready to suit up in Riders red.
âI’ve seen a lot of different competition, played so many different schools and players in one of the best conferences in the country,â said Harrison. âThat has absolutely helped me prepare for the next level. Iâve gone face to face with WNBA players, and nothing sets you up for success more than testing yourself against the best of the best.
âI always knew that I wanted to play professionally, but I also knew the amount of work that I’d have to put in to get here. I need to thank my support system, my family, because college is not easy at all. Itâs mentally and physically draining, but thatâs developed me as a person. Knowing that Iâve always had this dream and seeing it come true- I’m extremely grateful.â
It was a collegiate career filled with achievement, not least in 2021. In her sophomore year, Harrison helped the Wake Forest Demon Deacons to the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 33 years.
Her development as a player saw Harrison finish her graduation year as the teamâs second-leading scorer, adding electric energy to both ends of the court. Itâs that energy and effort that Head Coach Ben Stanley sees as one of the biggest additions to the Ridersâ roster.Â
A perfect match
âCoach and I hit it off right away. After our initial conversations, we had a meeting to go over my film of myself and the team last year to see how I fit into the scheme. Iâve never done that before, and the conversations that we had allowed me to see how I fit into the plans and seeing how I can develop as a player.
âI’m a very fast-paced player. I like to push the ball a lot in transition, and Coach really likes that part of my game, especially how I get good shots off early in the shot clock. The Riders played at a fast pace last year, so I can really see myself in that system.
“On the other end of the floor, I’m a very passionate defender. I like to wreak havoc on defence with my energy, and I think that is partly what drew the Riders to me.â
Football fanatic
Basketball wasnât Harrisonâs only calling. In 2019 she received all-county distinctions in football (soccer to her, but weâll call it by its proper name!), and played until her senior year.
âI grew up playing both basketball and football, and I had the best experience playing football in college. It really helped get in shape over the summer too. Iâve loved watching it- at Wake Iâd go down to watch the men and women play and it was really competitive. I canât wait to get down to a Leicester City game this season!â
Expanding horizons
Off the court, Leicester is a chance for Harrison, who has been abroad only once before, to expand her horizons. When asked what she most looked forward to from her rookie season, the opportunity to travel was near the top of her list.
âI’ve been to Italy once for four days, and that’s the only time that I’ve been overseas! I haven’t been to the UK, or any other countries for that matter.Â
âI’m excited to branch out and explore somewhere else, outside of America. I’m looking forward to experiencing both a new style of play on the court, but also new people and a different culture. Iâm so ready to get there, and play at the professional level.â
But on the hardwood, Harrisonâs number one motivation is improvement. Improvement of herself, and improvement of her teammates.
âI always want to get better than I was last season. I have some things I want to work on with my game, but that also goes for the team. I want to develop my game and the players around me, and win as many games as we can.
âI consider myself a leader, and to me that means bringing your teammates along with you and helping them to be the best that they can be.
âI’m so excited to be a part of this Club and get to work! I’m going to go out there and try to win every game we can. Thank you for having me!â
Leicester Riders today announce the signing of Kaia Harrison for the 2024-25 season.
The American guard joins the Riders for her first professional season after playing five years at Wake Forest. In her graduate year, Harrison averaged 8.9 points per game, and finished her collegiate career with 145 games played, the second most in school history.
Harrison, a New York native, helped the Demon Deacons to the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 33 years as a sophomore. She was the teamâs second-leading scorer in her final collegiate season, adding electric energy to both ends of the court.
She commented: âI am thrilled to announce my signing with the Riders. Iâm super excited for the opportunity to compete in this league and contribute my best to this team’s success. I look forward to showcasing my talent and Iâm ready to get to work!â
Heading into his second season as Head Coach, Harrison is Ben Stanleyâs first addition to the Ridersâ 2024-25 roster.
He added: âWeâre really looking forward to having Kaia join us this year. She comes from a fantastic school, and we know that sheâs had a big impact for Wake over the last couple of years.
âWe expect to see a lot of the same things from her for us, with her ability to handle the ball and her defensive acumen. We think sheâll be a fantastic addition to the squad.
âSheâs also an incredibly vibrant person, and sheâll have a big impact on the local community as well as Leicester Riders women.â
The consortium of clubs awarded the licence for menâs professional basketball in Great Britain has today revealed the official trading name as Super League Basketball.
Just two weeks ago the group of clubs were successfully awarded the playing licence by their governing body, the British Basketball Federation, allowing elite level menâs professional basketball to continue in Great Britain this September.
Chris Grant, Chair of the British Basketball Federation commented: âThe arrival of Super League Basketball represents another significant step forward. Considerable credit must go to the clubs for their unified approach and clear focus on delivering the best possible league for fans, players and everyone with an interest in the future of top-level British basketball.â
Speaking on behalf of the clubs, Steve Timoney, owner of Caledonia Gladiators said: âThere has been much speculation over what our new league name would be, and we have unanimously decided that a fresh approach is needed.
âWe hope all our fans are looking forward to the clubs taking to the court in September as part of this new league and we are excited for our future together. It has been a turbulent time for the clubs and our supporters, and we thank all the fans for their continued support and enthusiasm.
âThere is a lot still to do before the season starts, but we are looking forward to sharing news with our fanbase and followers as we count down to the opening weekend of Super League Basketball this September.â
Information on clubs, competition, fixtures and commercial partners will all be revealed in the next few weeks.
Leicester Riders are happy to confirm the retention of Victor Ndoukou ahead of the 2024-25 season.
The 6â8âł forward signed his first professional contract with the Riders in January 2023 to accompany his studies at Loughborough University, committing him to Leicester for  4 and a half years, which will see him signed to the Club through to the end of the 2026-27 season.
Ndoukou is a product of Charnwood Academy. There, he won the 2021/22 EABL MVP award after averaging 11.1 points and 5.1 rebounds in NBL D1, shooting 46% from three that season.
He added another trophy to his cabinet last season with Loughborough Riders, winning the BUCS title after hitting back-to-back clutch threes late in the final.Â
Ndoukou will suit up for another season at Loughborough while playing for the Riders. The Club would like to thank the University for its continued support.
âIâm excited for another opportunity to play this season,â said Ndoukou. âIâm really looking forward to meeting all the guys and getting back to work!â
Head Coach Rob Paternostro commented: âVic is a promising young player who continues to develop in our program. He has good size and skill and an excellent feel for the game.â
Since the announcement of a new professional league in British Basketball, the club consortia have been working diligently to ensure the launch of a new season by the end of August 2024.
To that end we expect to make several key announcements that will satisfy the fanbase up and down the country that a return to topflight basketball is in hand.
It is expected that the new league name will be announced in the coming days and that will be followed by some exciting news on how the league will operate and commercial partnerships as soon as the details are completed.
Further to this, communication will come regarding the direction of the league, the 2024/2025 season, the number of franchises and our new media deal.
As clubs begin to announce new signings, further developments include the commitment to move forward with a strategic growth plan which has been agreed by all parties. The overall desire is to grow the league and the sport commercially and will result in increased franchise areas over a medium-term period.
This new season will not only see the return to elite basketball but a return to European competition for many of our teams with plans to expand that participation in the season to follow.
The club consortia appreciate the patience of their fans during this difficult process, but we look forward to rewarding all with an exciting season ahead.
Ethan Wright grew up with basketball. As much as he found the game, the game found him.
His mother, Ellen, is one of the greatest players in Princeton University history, and ended her four-year career as the schoolâs second-leading scorer.
A four-time All-Ivy performer, she netted 430 points during the 1983-84 season, the best ever at the time. She currently sits second in program history in rebounds and blocks, and holds the single-game record for blocks in a game with nine.Â
Ellen was Wrightâs coach until eighth grade, but never forced the game onto him.
âShe wasn’t the type of parent to beg you to work out or force you into the gym, but she let me know that if I wanted to have success I had to work for it. She gave me all the help and resources I needed, and having a mum who had been through the entire college process was really helpful for me. Sheâs my biggest basketball resource.â
He quickly followed in her footsteps, declaring for Princeton in 2018.
Playing alongside British forward Tosan Evbuomwan, now of the Detroit Pistons in the NBA, Wright helped the Tigers to a 23-7 record in 2022, winning the Ivy League regular season.
It was the schoolâs best season since 2017, coming back with a bang after the COVID 19 pandemic saw the cancellation of Ivy League play.
As it did for many student athletes, COVID ripped Wright away from the game, making workouts near-impossible for months on end.
But absence makes the heart grow fonder, and that was certainly the case for Wrightâs love of the game coming back from the season-long hiatus.
âIt made me fall in love with basketball again,â said Wright, reflecting on his cancelled year at Princeton.
âWe hadn’t played for a year and we were dying to get out there. For six months I couldn’t even work out. College basketball is a grind, and it gave me a halftime break to let me miss the game.â
British fans will be familiar with Evbuomwan, who came through the Newcastle Eaglesâ youth system.
âTosan was so fun to play with. He was pretty much our point guard, even as a big, so we ran the offence through him. We had one of the best offences in the country, and I was playing with my best friends who Iâd played with for four years.
âThat year was the most fun I’ve had playing basketball.â
Rookie in Romania
After playing out his graduation year for the University of Colorado, Wrightâs post-college career started in Romania with CSM TĂąrgu Jiu last season. It was his first time leaving North America, and a big adjustment, as it is for any American rookie playing in Europe.Â
But he adapted quickly to the new environment, and the new challenge of going up against professionals for the first time.
âIt’s definitely a learning curve. Youâre no longer going up against kids, for one. In Romania thereâs great players who are talented and athletic, and while that talent and athleticism was there in college too, the speed of the game in the pros is quicker.Â
âThe shot clock is shorter, and guys are grown men who are really physical. Thereâs a lot of really experienced players who don’t make the same mistakes you see in college.
âBut you have to have confidence in yourself. If you go to a pro team and you don’t have that self belief and competitiveness then it’s going to be difficult for you. I learned a lot from my rookie year.â
Similarly, life off the court presents challenges for rookies.
âWe were in a very rural area in Romania, where there are very few Americans, or even English speaking people. If you don’t get along with your teammates it would have been very isolating. It’s important for your own life and the teamâs success that youâre together.â
Thatâs something that has always come naturally to Wright. In his final collegiate year, Colorado awarded him the Stephen Tebo Family P.A.S.S. Award, for being the player who best exemplified the virtues of Perseverance, Attitude, Selflessness and Success.
The award is a testament to his off-court character and leadership, not only in that season, but throughout his basketball life.
âI’ve always tried to be a good locker room guy. I don’t think I have a big ego at all, and I try to be someone who is fun to be around. With that team at Colorado, there were a lot of young guys who were dealing with things that I’d already gone through. I felt like someone they could go to for advice and talk to when they needed to. I try to do that wherever I am.â
Landing in Leicester
Wright is ready to bring that off-court attitude to the Riders this season, along with his on-court talents.
He put up 11.7 points in 23.7 minutes per game in Romania, logging 3.6 assists and 1.2 steals per outing.
âI think I bring shooting as my best attribute, but I can also attack the rim and make plays. I showed a lot of different things last year, and now that I have that overseas experience I feel a lot more comfortable as a pro.
âI do a lot on defence and with my rebounding, and I’m going to go in and try to be a spark plug for the team. Iâm a versatile player, so however Coach sees my role in the team I can adapt to.â
While itâs his first venture into the UK, Wright is itching to embrace the culture of the country and the city upon his arrival.
âIâm really excited to get to the UK. Iâm especially excited about getting the chance to go to a Leicester City game! I played football for a while, and I’ve always loved watching the game. I canât wait to immerse myself in the culture, get to know what the city and the country is like.
âI’m looking forward to eating the food. I hear Leicester has one of the biggest Indian populations in the country so I’m enthusiastic about engaging with that community and culture too.
âI’m honoured to be signing in a city with such incredible sporting heritage. Everything I hear about the club is the fans are great, and they support the club passionately, so that’s really cool.
âThe city really loves sport, and that makes me really excited to interact with fans, hang out in the community and get to know people. We need the fans’ support, so whatever I can do to support the city and support them back I’m ready to do.
âIf you’re a fan, don’t be a stranger! I’m excited to meet everybody!â
Leicester Riders today announce the signing of American guard Ethan Wright for the 2024-25 season.
Wright signs following his first professional season in Romania, where he suited up for CSM TĂąrgu Jiu. He averaged 12.1 points on 45/37/90 shooting splits, and pulled down 3.1 rebounds per game.
Prior to his rookie year, the Massachusetts native played four seasons of NCAA D1 basketball, initially for Princeton University alongside British forward Tosan Evbuomwan, currently of the Detroit Pistons in the NBA.
Wright helped lead the Tigers to the 2022 Ivy League regular season championship. He was named to the 2022 All-Ivy League and National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Second Team, and was three-time Ivy League Player of the Week in the 2021-22 season. Wright was also named to the NABC Honours Court in 2022.
In Wright’s final year in Princeton, he was his teamâs third leading scorer with 14.7 points per game. His 50% shooting from the field and 39.5% shooting from three ranked third in his conference, and his 6.9 rebounds per game was fourth best among all Ivy League players.
His final collegiate season was spent at the University of Colorado for the Buffaloes. Wright was one of four Buffs to feature in all 35 games, and ranked third on the team in three-pointers made with 29, while hitting 34.9% beyond the arc.
Wright commented: âIt feels great to sign in Leicester. Iâm really excited to be a part of a club and city with so much sporting history, and my goal is to be a big part of continuing that history.
âIâve always wanted to visit the UK, so it is a dream come true to be able to play for Leicester. Iâm ready to do whatever it takes to succeed as a group and I canât wait to get started!â
Wright is Head Coach Rob Paternostroâs second American signing ahead of the 2024-25 season, following the addition of Jaylin Hunter last week.
He commented: âEthan is someone we feel fortunate to pick up. He has one year of pro experience in Romania already, and weâre impressed by his all around play. He plays on both ends with intelligence, and we feel he will fit into our programme very well.
âWhen you look back at his career so far, heâs a very effective shooter, but thereâs more to his game than that. He has good athleticism and a great IQ and feel for the game.â
Leicester Riders are thrilled to introduce Rob Jarram as the new Head of Leicester Riders Foundation and Performance Pathway.
Rob’s role will encompass not only continuing the Foundation’s invaluable charitable efforts throughout Leicestershire, but also allocating resources and attention to the Academy pathway, fostering the growth of youth basketball in the region.
This appointment underscores the Clubâs dedication to developing its youth pathway system. Its connections with Loughborough University, Charnwood College, and its Foundation’s Academy are essential not only for the Club’s future successes, but also for the sustained development of British basketball.
Through its collaborations with local schools and basketball clubs, the Academy plays a crucial role in making the sport accessible to hundreds of children, thereby fostering inclusivity and encouraging participation in basketball.
Rob’s background in sport, particularly his ten years at Loughborough College primarily as Sports Development Manager, make him ideally suited to propel the Academy to the next level of player development.
In the past, his company, Everymind Performance, has collaborated with Leicester Riders, Charnwood, and Loughborough players to enhance their performance and development both on and off the court.
Everymind Performances’ contribution was pivotal in achieving the Club’s mission of not only elevating the on-court performance of players in its youth system, but also equipping them with the necessary tools for a successful transition into adult life.
Rob has familial ties to the Riders. His brother, Mark Jarram, served as Head Coach of Loughborough University Riders for eight seasons. Rob looks to continue his brotherâs legacy of player development in Leicestershire through working with the Leicester Riders Foundationâs pathway.
Jarram commented: âLeicester Riders, by work or by leisure, has been part of my life since I was 14 years old. Iâm extremely excited to be leading areas of the club that make a huge impact to so many young people and adults.
âI want to continue to build on the strengths within our Foundation and Performance Programmes as well as expand our provision and standards of delivery.
âUltimately, itâs all about our community, as a club and as a sport, and the future of British Basketball.â
Leicester Riders are happy to confirm the retention of Blake Bowman ahead of the 2024-25 season.
The British forward will take to the floor for his third season with the Club, having signed a multi-year deal last summer.
High-flying Bowman made big contributions throughout last year, leading the Riders with 15 points against the Caledonia Gladiators in October. Heâs a mainstay on the highlight reel with his play above the rim, and a constant fastbreak threat for opponents.
Bowman will suit up for the Riders while competing for Loughborough University, where he also enters his third year. Bowman has won back-to-back BUCS championships with Loughborough, winning MVP in the Final last season.
The Club would like to thank the University for its continued support.
âIâm super excited to get back going with the Riders,â said Bowman. “Iâm looking forward to the grind of the season and getting back out there in front of our fans.
âAfter a successful BUCS season, we had some key guys graduate, but were hungrier than ever to get another national championship for Loughborough.â
Head Coach Rob Paternostro commented: âWe are happy to have Blake back with us. He is a player that is continually improving and we expect big things from him next season.
âBlake has two BBL seasons under his belt and has gained good experience playing in our league. I’ve been really impressed with the work that he has put in this summer- he is motivated to have a great season.â
Leicester Riders Basketball Club today announced the signing of American Jaylin Hunter for the 2024/25 season.
Hunter, a 6â0â guard, will suit up for his rookie season in professional basketball having spent his final two collegiate years at the Ohio University.Â
He averaged 14 points, 4.9 assists and 4.4 rebounds for the Bobcats in 2023/24, and was named Second Team All-Conference after finishing the year as the MAC assists leader.
The Connecticut native helped Ohio to the MAC Championship semi-finals last season, scoring 17 points in the final four.
Before the University of Ohio, Hunter spent three seasons at Old Dominion University, captaining the team in 2021/22. Starting all 32 games for the Monarchs, he averaged 9.7 points and ranked top 10 in the Sun Belt Conference in assists, steals, assist-to-turnover ratio and minutes played.
Hunter commented: “I’m excited to get to Leicester and join my teammates and the fans to get working on a successful season! Iâm thrilled for this opportunity and can’t wait to get started with the Riders!”
Hunter becomes Head Coach Rob Paternostroâs first American signing of the offseason, and is the second addition to the Riders’ 2024-25 roster following the announcement of the re-signing of club legend Conner Washington on Thursday.
Paternostro commented: âJaylin is a dynamic guard, with an ability to get to the paint, make plays for his teammates and score in different ways. Iâve been impressed throughout the recruitment process with the positive references on his leadership and ability to be a good teammate.
âIâm excited to work with him. He has the characteristics you want from a point guard, and someone with the ball in his hands. His quickness, strength and shooting range make him a really difficult cover.â
Leicester Riders today announce the re-signing of club legend Conner Washington for the 2024-25 season.Â
The GB guard returns for his 12th season with the Riders, having won 14 pieces of silverware during his storied tenure with the Club.
After arriving in the East Midlands in 2011, Washington has been featured on the All-British Team of the Year on four occasions and the Defensive Team of the Year three times He is a dangerous perimeter threat, averaging over 40% from behind the arc in three separate seasons.Â
He marks Head Coach Rob Paternostroâs first signing of the 2024 offseason, following the British Basketball Federationâs announcement of a newly formed professional basketball league for the 2024-25 season yesterday.
Paternostro commended: âItâs great to have Conner back. He is a legendary player at the club who has had incredible success in his time with us.
âHe has been one the best three point shooters in club and league history, and he continues to be a threat . His experience on the court and in the locker room has always been valuable to our team.â
Washington added: âI’ve been hooping for 20+ years and I still find myself getting nervous before games – it is a true blessing, the hard work never stops! Iâm excited to get right back to it!â
Washingtonâs re-signing also marks the first signing for interim CEO Simon Winfield.
âIâm absolutely delighted that weâve signed Conner. Heâs proven his worth within the Club for a number of years, and is clearly a fan favourite. For him to be out of contract and choose to stay with us again for another season is really exciting.
âItâs important for him to be here, and mentor the new players coming in. Having spoken to Conner heâs really fired up about next year, not only about playing, but also supporting the organisation however he can.â
The British Basketball Federation (BBF) has today confirmed a three-year license has been awarded
to a consortium of British clubs for the professional menâs basketball league in Great Britain.
The BBF revoked the license from Basketball League Limited (the operating company of the BBL)
following breaches in the license after the 23/24 Season concluded. The BBF stated it would work
with the clubs to try and establish a route for the 24/25 season to go ahead and today confirmed a
new license has now been issued.
Chris Grant OBE, Chair of the British Basketball Federation said: âIâm delighted that fans, players,
staff and partners can look forward with confidence to the continuation of top-level British club
basketball.
âThe fact that weâve been able to move so quickly following the termination of the previous licence
is down to the positivity and unity of the clubs, as well as the professionalism and focus of our BBF
team and Board.
âThe way weâve worked together bodes well for the ongoing improvement and alignment of our
player pathway so that the wealth of British basketball talent can translate to success on the
international stage.â
Speaking on behalf of the consortium of clubs, Vaughn Millette, new majority shareholder of
Sheffield Sharks, said:
âSince the license was revoked, we (the clubs) have all worked together to sustain the elite
professional pathway in the UK. There has been a huge amount of work undertaken in a very short
amount of time to enable this to happen.
âWe would like to thank Chris Grant and the team at the BBF for working with us to deliver this
solution and reassure our fans that a professional basketball league will get underway this
September.
âWe are pleased that the British Basketball Federation has made the decision to award the menâs
professional license to our newly formed operating company âPremier Basketball Limitedâ. Our fans
will appreciate there is a huge amount still to be done and more details will be released shortly â
including the fixture schedule for the forthcoming season.â
Premier Basketball Limited has been established by clubs that previously competed in the BBL.
The new League name, club line-ups, start date and fixtures will all be announced in the weeks to
follow.
Leicester Riders announce new interim management arrangements as part of an ongoing restructure of their three businesses.
Simon Winfield, Managing Director of Red Monkey Play will, on an interim part-time basis, provide ongoing managerial oversight of the businesses, and support and drive, in particular, the preparations for the new Riders basketball season.
Mark Torr, joint Managing Partner at Leicester accountants Torr Waterfield, will also continue to provide financial oversight of the businesses, while the new structure of the businesses is finalised and implemented.
Simon and Mark are long time sponsors and supporters of the Riders, and Simon is also the Chairman of Leicester Riders Foundation, as well as another well-known Leicester charity, the Furnley House Foundation.
Riders Chairman Kevin Routledge said,
âWe are hugely appreciative of the support and experience Simon and Mark are providing to the businesses over the last number of months, and their commitment to defining a new way forward for the growth and sustainability of the Club.
âWe are all busy making preparations for the new season in September, and these changes will accelerate that process.â
Leicester Riders announce the departure of Managing Director Russell Levenston.
Russell is moving on to pursue new opportunities, after 17 years with the Club.
Riders wish to thank Russell for his great service to the Club, which covered a period of very significant developments off the court, and exceptional success on the court.
The Board and all the staff and players at the Riders wish Russell well in all his future endeavours.
Leicester Riders Chairman Kevin Routledge commented:
âThank you to Russell for great service over many years, which helped to develop and grow the Club. His work is appreciated by everybody at the Riders, and we wish him luck for whatever is next.â
Please stand by for further communications from the Club, which will be provided in the coming days.
A message from Russell Levenston
Dear Riders Fans, Sponsors, Staff, and Volunteers,
After 17 years, more latterly as Managing Director of the Leicester Riders, it is with a very heavy heart that I must say goodbye. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported me since I joined the club. I have countless stories and fond memories shared with the people whose lives we as a club have impacted.
My journey with the Riders began in 2007 when I moved from Milton Keynes to Leicester as a young British basketball fanatic. Vince Macaulay, my mentor for over 30 years, guided me as I took the bold step of investing in the Leicester Riders. Many thought I was crazy, but I believed in the potential of British basketball to change lives. I am proud to say that belief has been validated by the programsâ successes – the men’s team winning 17 BBL national titles in the past 11 years and the women’s team securing 4 WBBL national titles.
One of my proudest achievements has been establishing pathways for athletes in partnership with Loughborough University, Loughborough College, and Charnwood College. These pathways have allowed aspiring professional athletes to receive high-level education comparable to opportunities in the USA and other countries. The academy’s success in EABL, WEABL, and BUCS is a testament to our efforts.
I would like to extend a special thank you to Robert Jelley for his unwavering support, both personally and financially. Without Robert’s support, the Leicester Riders program would not be where it is today, and I am forever grateful for his contributions. Robert helped lay the foundations and supported a great community program that has changed many lives.
My passion has always been to prove that British basketball can be successful both on and off the court with the right approach. I want to thank every Riders fan, volunteer, player, and staff member who believed in the vision and direction of the club. Your support has been invaluable, especially in those early days.
There are many players and staff I would like to acknowledge, but I must single out Rob Paternostro, who has been a colleague and great friend for the past 16 years. Our journey together has been filled with challenges, but I wouldn’t have wanted to do it with anyone else. I have loved every minute of it both the ups and downs!
To the sponsors and partners, thank you for your unwavering support and belief in our vision. Your passion and commitment have been instrumental in our success.
Lastly, I want to thank my family. My parents and brothers, who initially thought I was crazy for leaving my job at Reebok in 2007 to take on this project, have supported me every step of the way. My amazing wife has been my rock, enduring my 24/7 work schedule, and my children, who have become diehard Riders fans. One of my best moments was during the playoffs this year, seeing Noah on the drums and Lydia on the horn, rallying the Riders fans. My family has shared many special moments with me during this journey, and I couldn’t have done it without their support.
As I step away, I am not sure what comes next other than taking some time off to spend with my family. However, I am confident that I will not be far from British basketball for long.
Good luck to all of the Riders family and to Kevin Routledge, who will continue to take the Riders program forward.
With gratitude and best wishes,
Russell Levenston
Following the announcement by the British Basketball Federation, the governing body of Basketball League Ltd (BBL), to terminate the current operational professional league licence, the BBL Clubs have taken the decision to issue the following statement.
In what has been a very challenging period in recent times, the decision to act by the BBF has been accepted in good faith by the incumbent club members of the British Basketball League, including Leicester Riders.
We understand the decision was not taken without serious consideration of what would be best for the future of professional basketball across the UK.
Furthermore, the BBL Club owners will now begin the task of co-operating with the BBF to ensure there is a topflight menâs professional League operating from September 2024 and to assist British Basketball and its stakeholders in the rebuilding and strengthening of the position for our sport.
The British Basketball League has made a significant impact in the growth of the game in profile, participation, development pathways, performance and especially in new purpose built Arenas and it is our intention to continue these contributions in partnership with the governing body.
Further information will be made available in the near future, meanwhile all existing clubs will continue with their summer preparations for the new season.
Leicester Riders Basketball Club and Mattioli Arena, Leicester, proudly announce a new partnership with Cyferd, a leading innovator in artificial intelligence and digital solutions. Cyferd is set to become the Official AI and Digital Partner for both entities, signalling a significant leap forward in the integration of cutting-edge technology within the sports landscape.
This strategic collaboration aims to enhance the efficiency of operational decisions within the Riders and Arena. Cyferd’s AI-driven platform operates as a centralised hub, offering comprehensive solutions for team management, development, knowledge, and training. The Cyferd Sport Platform is meticulously designed to address the unique operational needs of team sports clubs, providing an integrated ecosystem for streamlined operations.
Ranjit Bahia, CEO of Cyferd, expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to join forces with the Leicester Riders and Leicester Arena. Cyferd is dedicated to supporting the local community and bringing innovation to the forefront of sports operations.â
Kevin Routledge, Chairman of the Leicester Riders and Mattioli Arena, emphasised the pivotal role of AI in the future of sports operations, stating, “As someone who focuses on data, I believe that integrating AI into our operations is not just a choice but a necessity. This collaboration with Cyferd signifies our commitment to staying ahead in the sports technology game, ensuring the Leicester Riders and Mattioli Arena are at the forefront of the digital revolution in sports.”
The partnership signifies a shared vision for the future, where advanced technology and sports excellence converge. The Leicester Riders and Arena, in collaboration with Cyferd, are poised to redefine the landscape of sports operations, embracing a new era of innovation.
Want to learn more about our corporate offers for the upcoming season? Read our corporate brochure here!
Leicester Ridersâ season ended in London, as they fell in the Womenâs British Basketball League Playoff semi-finals 95-70 to the London Lions.
It was a closely fought first half, the Riders taking a seven point lead in the first quarter through hot three point shooting. But the EuroCup champions battled back and took control in the absence of Ridersâ captain Mckenzie Johnson, who was injured at the end of the second quarter.Â
Ridersâ record-breaking leading scorer Taylor OâBrien led the team again with 19 points and 8 rebounds, days after being named to the Team of the Year. She was backed by Jessica Eadsforth-Yates, who went 4-9 from three for 12 points and 5 rebounds.
A big night for Londonâs Abby Meyers saw her lead the game with 22 points, as six Lions scored in double digits to book their spot in the Final. Mayers went 9-16 from the field and pulled down 5 boards.
Red hot Riders start takes first quarter lead
The Riders had a hot start from deep, draining five triples in the opening five minutes to jump out to a 10-17 lead. Sharpshooters Katie Januszewska and Eadsforth-Yates had two each from behind the arc.
Lionsâ guard Meyers found lanes to the hoop on the other end to cut into the Ridersâ lead with 6 points, London starting 7-7 from two point range. But the hosts started cold from the outside, going 0-7 from three in the first quarter.
Their first one went down with a minute left, as Shanice Beckford-Norton gave the Lions the lead. This took the lid off, and Katsiaryna Snytsina knocked down another to send the sides into the first quarter break with London leading 22-18.
Meyers leads London to big lead
The start of the second saw the Riders cool off, and the Lions built their lead to eight. Maya Price hit a long two to force a Riders timeout a minute and a half in.
Johnston ended the cold streak with a corner triple for her first points of the afternoon. She was followed by OâBrien, who began her patented attacks of the rim to get to the foul line and keep the scoreboard ticking over for Leicester.
Despite OâBrienâs play, the Ridersâ deficit grew thanks to the red hot hand of Meyers, who brought her game tally to 11 with a three. It was a 15 point Lions lead with 3:52 left in the half.
Riders run brings visitors back into it
An Erin Powell three, followed by an OâBrien runner, breathed life back into the Riders. With under two minutes left in the half, OâBrien pulled up and banked in a triple, cutting the deficit to single digits and forcing a London timeout.
The Riders, rolling, put the ball in the hands of Januszewska, who logged her 7th points to further make inroads.
Late London buckets from Snytsina and Meyers made it 48-38 at the break, the Riders in touching distance. But Johnston took an elbow to the face as the half closed, seeing her out for the game.
Lions rebuild lead out of the half
A breathless start to the second half saw a Marrissa Hamilton and-one play met by back-to-back threes from Holly Winterburn, as the Lions edged ahead. Savannah Wilkinson drained her first three of the game with 6:25 on the clock, for her 13th points and giving the Lions an 18 point lead.
The Ridersâ defence stood strong, keeping the hosts to two points in three minutes, but with Johnston on the sidelines struggled to generate offence.
OâBrien, as she did in the second, continued to get to the foul line on her drives to the rim. She made it 17 points on the game, making the score 70-50. Shahd Abboud followed with a spin move from the midrange to trigger a Lions timeout.
To end the third, Faye Endean hit from close to make it 72-52 with one quarter to play.
London sees the game out
Abboud got the fourth underway with a smooth fake spin, laying in a two at the rim. In response, Beckford-Norton scored two straight buckets to seize back control for the hosts.
Januszewska stayed hot, draining her third three of the game as the Riders kept chipping away. Eadsforth-Yates went back-to-back from three to make it 12 on the night from the British guard.
Endean made the last bucket of the night from the foul line however, and the Lions won the fourth 23-16 to see it out.
Leicester Riders are a game away from the Playoff Final at the O2 Arena. Standing in their way: the undefeated, EuroCup champion London Lions, looking for their third-straight clean sweep.
Hereâs how the playoff semi-final is shaping up.
Last time out
The Riders were forced to battle back in the quarter-finals to beat the Essex Rebels in the clutch. A slow start at the Mattioli Arena saw Leicester down as much as 21, but fought back behind Taylor OâBrienâs 21 points and 17 rebounds.
Leicesterâs biggest lead of the night was two points- their winning margin at the end of the game. Once the Riders were back in it in the fourth, Shahd Abboud took over with big shots as the hosts vanquished their first playoff foe.
It was a gutsy win, as the Riders dug deep, stemmed the Rebels momentum and slowly climbed back into it over three quarters. Theyâll take confidence from their late form into the game against London.
Record-breaking OâBrien
Leading the team in the playoff opener followed the season trend for Ridersâ star guard Taylor OâBrien, who was named to the British Basketball League Team of the Year this week.
READ MORE: Taylor O’Brien named to the Women’s British Basketball League Team of the Year
The rookie American broke the Ridersâ single-season scoring record this year, surpassing Oceana Hamilton with 328 points.
OâBrien is lightning fast from the backcourt, attacking the rim relentlessly from wire-to-wire. She runs the pick-and-roll effectively to get her moving down hill, and her determination and hustle gets her on the offensive glass for second chance points.
Sheâll attack the heart of the Lionsâ defence all night long at the Copper Box, attempting to help the Riders to their second-straight visit to the O2 Arena.
Lions’ season
The Lions, last seasonâs quadruple winners, are yet to be defeated in the British Basketball League this year. They won the League with a 20-0 record, and won the Trophy in January after facing the Rebels in the Final.
However, key players departed to the WNBA ahead of the Lionsâ playoff run, including Karlie Samuelson, Temi Fagbenle, Megan Gustafson and Shey Peddy. Samuelson and Gustafson were the Lionsâ two leading scorers on the season, the latter winning the Trophy Final MVP.
The adjustment to the departures was felt in their playoff opener, despite confidently putting away the Nottingham Wildcats. The Lions, who averaged 98 points per game over the season, mustered only 80 against Nottingham, winning by 10 on the final buzzer.
Compared to the Lionsâ 140-42 and 105-49 wins against the Wildcats earlier in the year, the win was underwhelming as they felt the effects of losing their leading scorers.
One to watch
Holly Winterburn
13.5 points, 4.4 assists, 60.8 FG%, 52.1% 3PT%
Remaining on their roster, however, is Holly Winterburn, who arrived on the European stage for this season. She hit the shot of the EuroCup final, her game-winning three which was dubbed the biggest shot in British basketball history against Besiktas.
Her season can be defined by more than that single three, however. The former Riders led the League in three point percentage, knocking down a red hot 52.1% of her looks from deep, and hitting on 60.8% of her field goals.
Winterburn played once against the Riders this season, but didnât make her typical scoring impact with only 8 points. But she showed her ability to affect the game in multiple facets, finishing with 6 assists.
Expect Winterburn to show up in the biggest moments should this one be close late.
Where to watch
The game will be shown live on the Womenâs British Basketball League YouTube channel, tipping off at 4:30 pm.
Following the conclusion of Leicester Riders’ 2023/24 season, Head Coach Rob Paternostro reflected on the teamâs playoffs, and the season as a whole.
Playoff series vs Sheffield
The Ridersâ season ended in the quarter-finals of the playoffs, losing 2-1 in a best-of-three series to the Sheffield Sharks.
Leicester took a Game One win, and had a chance to take the lead with seconds left at home in Game Two. But a double-dribble call gave Sheffieldâs Prentiss Nixon the opportunity to hit a game winner with 1.6 seconds left, and a hotly contested no-call on a Miryne Thomas three sent the series back to Sheffield the following day.
âWe knew we had a great opportunity, holding the lead at halftime and then having a chance to take the lead with 25 seconds left,â said Paternostro. âThe double-dribble call was devastating for us, and then Nixon hit a great shot- credit to him.
âIt was a tough loss. As tough as they come. Especially when we had to be back on the road 13 hours later. We had our chance to win the series in Game Two, and next thing we know weâre on the road to Sheffield.â
The Sharks won Game Three convincingly in the second half, after a first half in which missed free throws were the difference between the sides. The Riders were down nine at the half after missing nine foul shots in the opening two quarters.
It was a continuation from the day before, where Leicester shot 66% from the line.
âIn the first half the free throw line hurt us as it did in Game Two. If we made our free throws weâd have been in it, but we couldnât handle Sheffield in the second half. Give them credit. Their home court advantage with the way their crowd was was too tough for us to overcome.â
The Riders were without their captain, Kimbal Mackenzie, for the playoff run. Paternostro addressed the impact of losing the teamâs point guard, who was recently named to the British Team of the Year, had on the series.
âNot having Kimbal for the playoffs was devastating for our chances. He was our leader, and the guy with the ball in his hands in the biggest moments of our season. It was a huge huge loss, but I thought other guys in Game One and Two stepped up to give us an opportunity to win the series.â
The fans
The raucous crowd played a factor in every game, with travelling numbers adding to every atmosphere.
âThe fans were top notch- as good as I can remember in any playoff series. Our fans really got that going on the road in Game One, and their fans came back and were awesome in Game Two.
âOur fans were incredible at home. They played such a big role in driving us on at the end, and the next day they were fantastic again.”
This yearâs British Basketball League playoffs featured a new format, with the first two rounds taking place over a best-of-three series. The new format created an electric environment in the arenas.
âAs someone who has played in these series as a player, I know that theyâre great for the fans. We saw that in this matchup. It really was a positive thing for the League to have that environment.â
Final reflections on the season
The season saw ups and downs throughout, following a large turnaround in players in the offseason.
Paternostro reflected on how it unfolded over the course of the year.
âWe lost so much from the year before, where we were 25-11 in the League. We lost a lot of experienced players, who we knew would move on after some time. We missed them, but we put together a roster that was 4-1 to start the year.â
After the 4-1 start, the Riders fell to 7-10 having lost to the London Lions twice, and Cheshire Phoenix three times over a difficult stretch of fixtures. Leicester made changes to their roster, adding high volume scorer Teddy Allen and energetic big man Duke Shelton to the team ahead of the upcoming Trophy run in January.
âWe were in the mix and trying to find our feet, but hit a tough stretch of games and had to make some changes. When Teddy and Duke arrived, they provided a boost and we started to play some good basketball around the holidays.
âWe put ourselves in real contention for the Trophy, doing a great job to qualify through a challenging group. Then we had an amazing fightback against Cheshire and had the lead with seconds to go. We were trending upwards at that point and with a couple of bounces going differently we would have been in the first final of the season.
Following the Trophy, the Riders faced six double header weekends. They went 2-4 in the second games of double headers after the Trophy, contributing to Leicesterâs fall to .500 come the end of the year.
âWe were like a lot like other teams at around .500, and dealt with injuries at a crucial part of the season with a lot of double header weekends. Our record on those Sundays wasn’t the best and we dropped some games. This league is very challenging with its schedule, and it’s about who can survive the grind of February, March and April.â
2024/25 season tickets on sale now!
As the offseason awaits for the Riders, you can book your spot in the stands by getting your 2024/25 season ticket now!
Early bird prices last until June 7. Get yours here!
Dear Supporters,
With the Riders 2023/24 British Basketball League season coming to a premature end last Sunday in Sheffield in the playoffs, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our fans, supporters, commercial partners, staff and volunteers for their unwavering support.
This has been a challenging season for the Riders, with the loss of a significant number of our experienced players in the last off season, and there have been more changes in personnel throughout the season than we would have ideally liked.
The British Basketball League has become ever more competitive each season and maintaining the high standards we have achieved on the court over the last decade or so becomes increasing more difficult.
In addition, our cost base, like many of your own family and business budgets, have come under increased pressure, due to the cost-of-living crisis, and, with our now large overheads, we have had to respond to the pressures and rethink how we do things.
Some of the matters at league level have been very transformational, but other aspects, as many of you know, have distracted from the many good things going on in the British Basketball League, the Club and in British basketball.
But national success has continued in other areas in our Club with our university and college teams.
We are fortunate in the strong support we have received throughout the community and are confident we can build on a stronger base for the future.
We will make the necessary changes in the off-season to make improvements wherever we can and look forward to earning your further support in the future.
Look out for further communications throughout the offseason and look forward to a reenergised Riders when we come back in the new season in September.
Yours sincerely,
Kevin Routledge
Chairman
The Womenâs British Basketball League today announced that Taylor OâBrien has been named to the 2024 Team of the Year.
The rookie guard led the Club in scoring this season with 16.4 points per game. With 328 points scored, she surpassed Oceana Hamilton for the Ridersâ single-season scoring record. 16.4 points is also the highest single-season average in Riders history.
In 21 games, she scored in double-digits on 17 occasions, scoring a season-high 30 points in the final game of the season against Sheffield Hatters.Â
OâBrienâs 6 rebounds per game ranked second on the team, and logged double digits in rebounds on four occasions from the guard position.
Itâs an honour to be named to the Team of the Year,â said OâBrien. âI owe it all to my teammates, coaches, family, friends and everyone who has impacted my first year playing overseas.
âThere have been so many people that have helped me in tremendous ways and Iâm so grateful for their guidance and support all season. I really could not have done it without them.â
Head Coach Ben Stanley commented: âTaylor has been electric for us this season. While people will rightly look at her scoring and ability to get to the rim, she’s contributed in a number of different ways.
âShe has improved her passing over the season, and owned the glass in a number of big games, none more so than her 17 boards in the playoff first round. She’s been a huge part of our success this season.â
Leicester Riders Managing Director Russell Levenston added: âCongratulations to Taylor for being named to the 2024 Team of the Year. Itâs right that she is recognised for her incredible achievements this season, having broken multiple records in Riders red.
âWell done Taylor!â
The British Basketball League announced today that Leicester Ridersâ Teddy Allen has been named to the 2024 Team of the Year.
The American wing was the Clubâs leading scorer this season with 22.7 points per game. He was one of only two players in the League to average over 20 points, and one of three players to rank top 10 in points (2nd) and rebounds (10th), pulling down an average of 6.4. Â
Allen played his first game for the team on December 16, logging 32 points and 6 rebounds in the Ridersâ win against the Caledonia Gladiators. He went on to score over 30 points five times, and over 20 points 14 times in his 23 appearances for the Club.
His performances this year saw him named 2024 All Star captain for team South. He put up 32 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists in the game to earn All Star MVP.
Allen adds to his growing list of accolades, which include 2023 CEBL MVP, 2022 Western Athletic Conference Player of the Year and 2022 Western Athletic Conference Tournament MVP.
The Womenâs British Basketball League today announced that Sam Ashby has been named to the 2024 British Team of the year.
The Australian/British rookie was the Clubâs second-leading scorer (13.6) and led the team in steals (1.8). She scored in double digits on 17 occasions in 21 appearances this season, putting up a season-high of 23 points and 7 rebounds against Oaklands Wolves in March.Â
Ashbyâs performances earned her a starting spot for Team South in the 2024 British Basketball League All Star game.
She also received her first international call up for Great Britain in November.
The British Team of the Year selection adds to Ashbyâs growing list of accolades, which includes Associated and Catholic Colleges Most Valuable Player in 2017 and Most Outstanding Female Basketballer in 2016 and 2017 for Newman College, Perth.
âItâs an honour to be chosen in a pool of such amazing British athletes this league has brought together,â said Ashby.
Head Coach Ben Stanley commented: âSam’s really developed from the start of the year to now, playing out of pick-and-roll and improving her decision making.
âWhen you combine that with her ability to shoot the ball and her inherent toughness it’s no surprise she has made the British Team of the Tear, and we’re looking forward to seeing her on the international stage further with GB.â
Leicester Riders Managing Director Russell Levenston added: âCongratulations to Sam for her selection on the British Team of the Year. We have been impressed with how she acquitted herself all season both domestically and internationally, on and off the court.
âWell done Sam!â
The British Basketball League announced today that Leicester Riders captain Kimbal Mackenzie has been named to the 2024 British Team of the Year.
The Canadian/British guard finished the Championship season as the Ridersâ second-leading scorer with 13.2 points and leading playmaker with 5.2 assists per game.Â
Mackenzieâs assist average ranked fifth in the British Basketball League among all players. He also ranked fifth in free throw percentage for players who have over 40 attempts on the season, shooting 87.2% from the foul line.
This was Mackenzieâs best statistical season in his five-year professional career. He averaged a career high in points, rebounds, assists and minutes. His performances earned him his first appearance on the British Team of the Year in his third season in Leicester.
Mackenzie scored in double digits in 28 of 39 appearances this season, topped by his 26 points and 15 assists against the Plymouth City Patriots in March. He was a consistent performer in the clutch, taking lead and hitting big shots in key moments late in games.
He was named a 2024 All Star in recognition for his performances this season.
Mackenzie commented: “It’s a huge honour to be named to the British Team of the Year. I’m proud to represent a fast growing league with a tonne of talent.
âCredit goes to the coaching staff and my teammates for trusting me and putting me in a position to succeed.â
The Womenâs British Basketball League today announced that Rayven Peeples has been named to the 2024 Defensive Team of the Year.Â
The American rookie ranked fourth among all players in blocks per game (1.4) and second in rebounds per game (11), leading the Club in both categories.
Peeples logged six games with multiple blocked shots this season, including a season-high 4 blocks to go with 18 points and 13 rebounds against Cardiff Met Archers in February. She also recorded 12 games with double-digit rebounds, and a season-high of 18.
Her average in blocks was a career-high for Peeples, bettering any of her three seasons at St Johnâs University and her single season at North Carolina A&T State University.
âBeing selected to the defensive team of the year is a major accomplishment for me,â said Peeples.
âMy game has always been driven by my play on both ends of the floor, and I have always taken pride in being a great defender. Thank you to my coaching staff and teammates for putting me in a position to succeed.â
Head Coach Ben Stanley commented: âRayven has been an anchor for us on the defensive end all season. She’s not only defended her position but been great in switches and rotations as well as meeting the challenge to be dominate on the defensive glass.
âWe wouldn’t be where we are without her contribution at both ends of the floor.â
Leicester Riders Managing Director Russell Levenston added: âCongratulations to Rayven for earning a place on the Defensive Team of the Year.
âShe has been an outstanding performer on both ends this season, and she deserves to be recognised for her efforts on the defensive side of the floor. Well done Rayven!âÂ
The Riders return to action on Sunday, taking on the London Lions in the Women’s British Basketball League Playoff semi-finals.
Leicester Ridersâ season ended in the British Basketball League Playoff Quarter-Finals, after losing to the Sheffield Sharks 86-69 in Game Three.Â
After a closely fought first half, matching the tone set in the opening two games of the series, the Sharks blew the game open in the third with hot shooting, and the Riders couldnât get back in it.Â
Sam Idowu fought hard to chip into the deficit with 13 third quarter points, and led the team in the game with 16. But it wasnât enough to make inroads, and the Sharks advanced to the semi finals.Â
As he did in Game One, Prentiss Nixon led the Sharks with 17 points in 19 minutes of play.
Riders fight back after slow start
Sharks had an electric start, with Malek Green capping off a 7-2 run from the tip-off with a putback jam. Sesan Russell found a response with a three from the top to momentarily quiet the crowd, but Devearl Ramsey and Green combined back-to-back to retake momentum.Â
A shot clock violation from the Riders highlighted their slow offensive start. It was rookie Jaren Holmes whose aggression got them going as he pulled the strings with drive to the hoop. He drew a foul with 4:41 left in the first, his foul shots making the score 11-9, and Mo Walker tied it up at the rim a minute later.
The Riders took their first lead of the game, Teddy Allen hitting his first three off the dribble, but the Sharks had the better of the final minute of the first with Prentiss Nixon banking in a three to end it, the hosts leading 24-21.
Riders run meets Ratinho response
Two Sheffield corner threes started the second quarter to give them a seven point lead. It was quickly double digits through Eytle-Rock on the break, forcing a Rob Paternostro timeout.
A Miryne Thomas three stopped the bleeding, and after Samuel Idowu blocked Kipper Nichols driving to the rim, TJ Lall ran the break for two to cut into the deficit.
As the Riders looked to equal the score, it was Holmes again to lead the charge. His and-one finish followed by a breakaway two cut it to one with 3:06 left in the half.
Threes from Nichols and Jordan Ratinho undid the Riders work, however, and Ratinho hit another on the fastbreak to make the score 46-37 with one possession left in the second. Thatâs how the sides entered the half, as Nixon missed a prayer on the buzzer.
Sharks blow game open in the third
Ramsey got the second half underway with a midrange, followed by three scores from Green, to get the hosts the better start in the third period. They led 53-37 three minutes in.
Idowu ran the pick-and-roll with Holmes to get two points back, but a Marcus Delpeche slam to get the points straight back. Idowu had 13 points in the third, attempting to get the Riders back in it with his work around the rim.
But a rim-rocking alley-oop jam from Green took the roof off the Arena, and the score was 62-46 with 3:22 left in the period.
Sharks see it out
The Sharks caught fire to end the game. Everything Pipkins and Nichols shot found string, allowing them to pull away to a 20 point advantage quickly in the fourth period. Pipkins logged with 12th points to make the score 74-52.
Blake Bowman scored back-to-back for the Riders, using his athleticism at the rim, but Pipkins hit another three on the other end.
The fourth quarter was 17-17, and the Ridersâ season came to a close.
Leicester Riders fell 74-77 to Sheffield Sharks in Game Two of the British Basketball League Quarter-Finals.
Prentiss Nixonâs game winner forced a Game Three in Sheffield, after a closely fought battle throughout.Â
Teddy Allen led the tie with 23, hitting big shots consistently to keep the Riders in touch. The Riders had a chance to tie with 1.6 seconds on the clock, but Miryne Thomasâ attempt missed, and he found no call despite claims of contact.Â
Malek Green led the Sharks with 22 points and 11 rebounds going 10-13 from the field.
Game Three is to be played on Sunday May 5 at 4pm, at the Canon Medical Arena.
Teddy takeover starts Game Two
Allen took over the opening stages with his tough shot making, draining two-and-ones including a fadeaway out of a double team. He scored six to lead Leicester to a 12-9 start by the media timeout.
Duke Shelton, checking into the game for the first time, made an immediate impact with a slam, running the pick-and-roll with Sesan Russell. He pulled down an offensive board next time down which led to a Thomas hookshot, and putback Jaren Holmesâ miss to put Leicester up 18-11.
Fending off the fightback
Nixon picked up where he left off after 25 points in Game One, draining a corner three for Sheffield off the bench. He and Kipper Nichols took over for a stretch, and the Sharks tied it at 24 quickly in the second period.
Allen stayed hot, hitting a triple from the top to get three points back for the hosts. TJ Lall drove inside for an and-one, then Conner Washington stepped up to hit a three, which took the roof off the Arena and rebuilt the Leicester lead to seven.
A three from Allen with 3:48 left in the half, following Sam Idowuâs second block of the game, made it double digits and brought his tally to 12.
It was Thomasâ time to get to work a minute later. He sized up Marcus Delpeche at the top of the arc, stepping back for three to make it 45-30.
Ratinho run gets Sheffield back in it
Jordan Ratinho was the Shark to snatch momentum back, laying in a two before driving on the fastbreak to be sent to the foul line by Idowu.
After he made both, Ramsey stole the ball and found Ratinho on the run again, and he went to the line for two more to make it 45-38 with 1:07 left in the half.
Russell, fighting among the trees for an offensive board, made a trip to the stripe himself to stop the 6-0 Ratinho run, but out of a timeout Nixon got to the midrange for two. The half ended with Green at the line, who made it 47-41 at the break.
Sharks snatch the lead in tense third
RJ Eytle-Rock started the half with two buckets at the rim for the Sharks to make it a one score game. But Russell once again settled the team by making his way to the line, stealing the ball from Ramsey in transition and taking a charge on him in three straight plays.
Russell was relentless, covering all 94 feet on defence to suffocate the Sharks. But his defence on Green in the post was deemed too physical for the officials, and he was forced to the bench in foul trouble.
With Russell on the bench, Green tied it up with a drive to the rim with 5:30 left in the third, and the Sharks then took the lead at the hands of Delpeche.
Defences locked down for the rest of the third, with only one point scored in over two minutes. Sheffield led by a score during that time until Jalon Pipkins laid in a two to make it 56-60. He then got to the hoop to start the fourth for two more.
Sharks hit game winner in closely fought clutch
Despite a defensive start to the fourth, Idowu and Lall came up with Riders scores to cut it to two. Allen scored four straight points, but Sheffield got to the rim back-to-back and they took a four point edge.
Two offensive rebounds for Green in succession meant it was 64-70. But Allen came up with a huge four-point play, hitting a three through contact to keep the Riders in touch. Fading away on the baseline, he then hit a tough contested two, and was followed by a layup from Holmes.
Allen and Lall both had chances to tie the game from three, but missed both attempts with two minutes left. Idowu then went to the foul line and made one of two to make it 72-74.
Green missed from two, and Iwodu followed his own miss to tie with 50 seconds left. Idowu was called for a double dribble, giving the Sharks a shot to win. Nixon took it, and hit a three with 1.6 seconds left.
Thomas had a chance to tie on the horn, but missed and found no call despite claims of contact, and the series was sent to a third game.
Leicester Riders pulled off a comeback in the clutch to beat Essex Rebels 81-79 and progress to the semi finals of the Womenâs British Basketball League Playoffs.
The Riders were down by as much as 21 in the game, and 11 going into the final quarter, but pulled off a comeback led by star guard Taylor OâBrienâs 21 points and 17 rebounds.Â
She had 6 rebounds in the fourth, but it was Shahd Abboudâs scoring which lit the fire under Leicester with back-to-back buckets, cutting it to three. Her layup with 52 seconds left proved to be the game winner for the hosts.
Essex had a red hot start, running out to a 20 point lead in the first quarter, but the Riders chipped away until the fourth and snatched the win. Dayzsha Rogan led the game with 23 points and 9 rebounds, going 10-17 from the field.
Essex take early lead
A 13-3 Rebels lead to start the game was built from tough shot making inside. Rogan scored 6 points in four minutes, banking in two layups off balance as she drove to the rim.
After the middle had been established, Renee Busch hit a corner three to make it 13, and force a quick Riders timeout. Essexâs hot first quarter meant they started 22-3, led by 8 points from Rogan.
Marissa Hamilton took the lid off the basket for Leicester with a layup in the post, which was followed by a midrange from Mckenzie Johnston, making it 7-22.
But after chipping into the deficit, it was back to 19 at the end of one after Tia Freeman was sent to the foul line to end the quarter, making it 11-30.
Riders charge back into it
Long range efforts continued to fall for the visitors in the second, keeping Leicester at distance. The Rebels were shooting 50% from three midway through the third, while Jessica Eadsforth-Yates knocked down the hostâs second triple with four minutes left in the half.
However, a run to close the second breathed life into Leicester. Katie Januszewska ran the fastbreak at 2:49 on the clock, driving to the rim and finishing through contact to make it 30-43. Erin Powell was next to chip away with two shots from the foul line, and the deficit was 11.
Essex stemmed the tide with free throws from Busch, but OâBrien brought her tally to 11 with a tough finish at the rim, and Januszewska finished the half with a triple to enter the locker rooms down 39-50.Â
Forced to fight back
Essex refound their early form to start the second half, building their lead back to 18. Rogan added two more buckets to her tally to shoulder the scoring load, continuing to battle in the paint.
They had no answer for OâBrien, however, who kept the Ridersâ side of the scoreboard ticking over and bringing her points total to 16.
Building on their point guardâs play, the Riders fought their way back in it, forcing back-to-back turnovers in the closing seconds of the third.
Abboud and OâBrien punished the mistakes, and Leicester went on a 9-0 run at the end of the quarter to make it 55-66 with one to play.
Riders charge into the lead
Hamilton got the fourth underway with back-to-back scores, cutting the deficit to single digits for the first time since the opening stages.
The Riders dominated the offensive glass from the backcourt through Eadsforth-Yates and Johnston, grabbing three in the first two minutes, and Johnston hit from the foul line after her second offensive board to make it 61-66.
Essex slowed the Riders’ charge with a three from Claire Paxton, but Abboud responded from distance on two straight plays, making it a one possession game. Johnston then tied it up from the foul line, and Eadsforth-Yates drained a three to snatch the lead for Leicester.Â
Winning a battle in the clutch
Essex steadied themselves to regain the lead, Daniella Turner hitting back-to-back to put them up three.
But the Riders, through Januzsewskaâs up and under for two, kept in the game, and Hamiltonâs block leading to a shot clock violation gave them a chance to get ahead with under a minute on the clock.
Abboud, again, drove to the hole and finished for two to capitalise on that chance, before Januzsewska stole the resulting inbound. She then pulled down an offensive rebound from an Eadsforth-Yates miss, but couldnât put in the putback and the Rebels had a chance to win it.
The shot fell to Paxton, but her three hit iron. OâBrien pulled down her 17th rebound, and she was sent to the line with 0.2 on the clock. She made one and missed the second, ending the game and winning it for Leicester.Â
Heading to the capital
The Riders will head to the capital to face the undefeated London Lions in the semi final. A win would see them progress to the Final at the O2 Arena on May 19.
Leicester Riders are set to take on the Sheffield Sharks in Game Two of the British Basketball League Playoff Quarter-Finals.
The Riders enter the game leading the best-of-three series 1-0, meaning a win in the game would see them advance to the Semi-Finals.
Here is everything you need to know about the fixture.
Fixture information
Leicester Riders vs Sheffield Sharks
British Basketball League Playoffs: Quarter-Finals Game Two
Mattioli Arena, Leicester
6:45 pm
Game One Recap
The Riders enter Game Two up 1-0 in the series, after taking Game One on the road 84-81.
Ridersâ rookie duo of Miryne Thomas and Jaren Holmes led the team to the win with a combined 46 points and 14 rebounds, Thomas leading the way with 24/8.
After a hot start for the Riders, seeing them up double digits within minutes, the Sharks responded through their bench play to take the lead back, which they held until midway through the fourth.
But a late Riders surge saw them bounce back in the clutch, locking the Sharks down with their defence. Teddy Allen sealed the win with two trips to the foul line, meaning Leicester are now one win away from the Semi-Finals.
One to watch
The Sharksâ bench, which scored 59 points in Game One, was led by a game-high 25 points from American guard Prentiss Nixon.
It was a season-high for Nixon, who scored 20 on only two occasions prior this season, both times in December.
Nixon averaged 9.2 points per game over the course of the year, but caught fire early in this one for 11 first quarter points off the bench, and led the hosts in the clutch to keep them in contention late. He went 9-15 from the field and 4-9 from three in 23 minutes of play.
The third-year pro will take confidence into Game Two after his performance on Sunday, potentially providing a spark off the bench for the Sharks.
The Numbers
The Riders went through shooting struggles in Game One despite coming away with the win, shooting 6-26 from behind the three point line.
However, looking back on how the season series played out, Leicester can take confidence back to the Mattioli Arena where they shot 46% from three against the Sharks from three this season.
This is in contrast to the 26% three point percentage in Sheffield. Leicester can expect to produce a more consistent threat from three in Game Two of the series.
Turnover troubles also followed a similar trend. The Riders gave up double digit turnovers in their two road games against the Sharks this season, and another 12 in Game One.
But at home, it was 6 turnovers per game for Leicester, and over 100 points scored on both occasions.
If the numbers are anything to go by, home court advantage is set to play a role in Saturdayâs action.
Where to watch
Only a few tickets remain to the Riders home playoff opener. You can get them here.
Tickets include entry to the Riders womenâs playoff game against Essex Rebels at 2:45 pm.Â
READ MORE: Playoff Preview: Leicester Riders vs Essex Rebels
Doors to the Arena open at 2:15, and the first 1,200 fans through the door will receive a free Dark Horse playoff t-shirt thanks to the generosity of the Riders’ sponsors at RDL Technologies, Vertu Motors, Torr Waterfield, Jelson Homes and EverythingBranded.
The game will also be shown live on Sky Sports and Sky Sports YouTube.
Leicester Riders are set to tip-off their 2024 Playoff campaign at the Mattioli Arena against Essex Rebels.
The Riders enter the postseason as the 4-seed, finishing 15-5 in the Championship. Meanwhile the Rebelsâ 11-9 record earned them the 5-seed following their trip to the Trophy Final in January.
Hereâs what to expect from the matchup.
Fixture information
Leicester Riders vs Essex Rebels
Mattioli Arena, Leicester
Womenâs British Basketball League Playoff Quarter-Finals
2:45 pm
One to watch
Kat Tudor
18.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists
American guard Kat Tudor is Essexâs leading scorer this season. She ended the season as the fourth leading scorer in the Womenâs British Basketball League, and shot the best from the field of anyone in the top eight of the scoring charts at 46.3%.
The 25-year-old joined the Rebels from Australian NBL1 West side Mandura Magic, where she was the second-leading score on the team with 15.6 points.
Her scoring ability translated seamlessly to British basketball. She scored in double digits in every game this season, and averaged 28.5 over her last two Championship games.
Tudorâs best performance of the season, 31/5 on 80% FG shooting, came in her penultimate game against Oaklands Wolves, heating up in time for the postseason.
She went 6-7 from three in that game, and is capable of catching a heater from deep on any night. She shot 7-12 against the Giants and 5-9 against the Riders earlier in the season.
Tudor also shot 5-6 from three on her way to 24 points to knock the Riders out of the Trophy in January, and will look for another red hot game as the Rebels get their Playoffs underway.
Season series
In all competitions, the Riders won the season series against the Rebels 2-1. It was 2-0 in the Championship season, the Riders winning by an average of 8.5 in two closely fought games, but the Rebels won in a win-or-go-home Trophy game 84-70.
Game one, played in Essex, was a 79-70 Riders win, led by Taylor OâBrienâs 20 points and Rayven Peeplesâ 17. It was a closely fought affair, with a four point difference on the scorebaord with three minutes on the clock, but captain Mckenzie Johnstonâs 6 points in the final minutes saw the Riders over the line.
Kat Tudorâs game-high 25 points wasnât enough for Essex, but 24 in the next game was. Tudor shot 6-7 from the field, 5-6 from three and 7-9 from the foul line in a red hot shooting night to progress past the Riders in the Trophy.
The Riders were down by as much as 24 in the game, but pulled it back to six late in the fourth. However, five straight points from Tudor ended the Riders comeback, and their Trophy journey in the first round.
The Ridersâ revenge came in April, playing Essex at home for the first time. They won 60-52, Johnston leading Leicester with 15 points. The hosts led wire-to-wire, and by as much as 17 points in the third.
But a run at the end of the quarter saw the Rebels enter the fourth down only 46-40. Johnston, again, put the team on her back late to score six in the final two minutes of play, leading Leicester to a win.
Battle on the boards
The rebounding battle was pivotal to the Riders’ success against Essex this season. In their two wins, they outrebounded their opponents 55-36.5, and by 16.5-5.1 on the offensive glass. The Riders rebounded by committee on the defensive end to complete defensive possessions repeatedly.
However, in Essexâs Trophy win, they found joy on the boards for the first time against the Riders. They pulled down 47 to Leicesterâs 38, and grabbed 13 offensive rebounds to Leicesterâs 11.
The Riders, as the third best rebounders in the League this season, arenât accustomed to losing the rebounding battle often, so winning on the glass will be pivotal to their success in this one.
Where to watch
Tickets are on sale now for the Riders menâs and womenâs playoff games at the Mattioli Arena.
Doors open at 2:15 for a 2:45 womenâs tip off, followed by the menâs tip off at 6:45.
READ MORE: Playoff Preview: Leicester Riders vs Sheffield Sharks Game Two
Thanks to the generosity of the Riders’ sponsors at RDL Technologies, Vertu Motors, Torr Waterfield, Jelson Homes and EverythingBranded, the first 1,200 fans through the door will receive a free âDark Horseâ playoff t-shirt.Â
The game will also be shown live on the Women’s British Basketball League YouTube channel.
The Riders opened their 2024 Playoff campaign on Sunday with an 84-81 win on the road against the Sheffield Sharks.
Series are won and lost through game-to-game adjustments, therefore Rob Paternostro and the team will pour over film from Game One to find an edge for Game Two.
Here’s what the Riders can take from Sunday’s action.
Riders’ rookies show resilience
If there were any nerves from the Ridersâ rookies, Jaren Holmes and Miryne Thomas who were both making their professional playoff debuts, it didnât show.
The American pair led the team to the Game One win with a combined 46 points and 14 rebounds, both putting up 20 to pick up the scoring load.
Thomasâ Player of the Game performance saw him go off for 24 and 8, shooting 9-12 and making tough plays and highlights from start to finish.
âI love this environment,â said Thomas post-game. âI love playing hard in competitive basketball, and tonight was a hell of a show.â
READ MORE: Riders react to Game One win
Meanwhile Holmes played downhill all game from the guard spot, relentlessly attacking the rim to keep the Riders in the game while they trailed through the second and third quarter. Like Thomas, Holmes relished the bright lights with his aggressive play.
âI was just trying to make the right plays,â said Holmes. âThatâs what I always try to do. I saw lanes and tried to attack, find my teammates and be aggressive. Itâs a big part of my game when Iâm aggressive and try to get downhill and make plays for others.âÂ
Sharks’ second unit shoulder scoring
The Sharksâ bench carried their scoring, going off for 59 points led by 25 from Prentiss Nixon. But 22 points from the starters, and none of the Sheffield starters scoring in double digits, meant the Riders had the best of the beginning and end of the game.
Nixon checked in down 10 in the first quarter and scored 11 points in five minutes. His play cut the hostâs deficit to two by the end of the first period. The Sharks’ bench was responsible for a 20 point swing in the score that saw them leading by seven with one to play.
Rodney Glasgow Jr., also off the bench for Sheffield, led the team in +/- with 12. That tally was bettered only by Mo Walker for Leicester, who recorded a +/- of 15.
The strong bench showing from the Sharks in Game One means the Riders should be prepared for a potential mix up to the Sheffield starting five.
Should there be no changes, the Riders bench will be required to lock in to stop the Sheffield second unit, which has showcased their firepower to start the series.
Defence wins championships
âDefensively is where we made our mark,â commented Head Coach Rob Paternostro following Game One, and that was especially true down the stretch.
The Riders held the Sharks to 14 fourth quarter points after giving up over 20 in each of the first three periods, and got big plays from players in the big moments.
The best defence was played in the first half of the final quarter, with Sheffield managing just six points. Sam Idowu blocked RJ Eytle-Rock and stole the ball from Jalon Pipkins in that period of play, and Teddy Allen stripped Nixon to set up a Thomas and-one.
The lockdown defence allowed the Riders to run in transition repeatedly, playing to the strengths of their rookie pair of Thomas and Holmes who thrived on the break.
In the closing minutes, Nixon scored five straight to keep Sheffield in it against Leicester, which allowed the Sharks two possessions to go for the win. But the Ridersâ defence stood firm, forcing misses from Pipkins and Malek Green with less than a minute on the clock.
While the Riders entered the game with one of the highest powered offences in the League, they’ll need consistent performances on the defensive end to go all the way in the Playoffs.
In that respect, they’ll be encouraged from Game One.
Shooting struggles
The opening game followed the trend set by the regular season series between these two sides. The two games played in Sheffield this year saw the teams duel out closely fought affairs, with the Riders struggling offensively compared to their performances at home.
In game one of the season series in November, the Riders shot 5-21 from three in a loss, and they suffered an even worse shooting slump in the playoff opener.
It was a 6-26 game from behind the three point line, but the Riders overcame their struggles by generating offence at the rim and in transition.
Game two in December put an end to the Riders’ difficulties from deep. They went 51% in a blowout win. Leicester will hope to see a similar pattern unfold in the playoffs, and be able to rely on their three point shooting at home.
Riders bring the cavalry
The Riders’ travelling crowd got them over the line, packing the stands in Sheffield to get behind the team.
Holmes said post-game that he felt the energy from the stands:
âIt was a huge victory for us, and we wouldnât have done it without the fans,â said Holmes. âThey were tremendous. They fuel us when they come and support us, so to have this many people come out and show up for us truly means a lot to me and the guys in the locker room.â
Paternostro also complimented the away crowd, and called out to Riders fans to bring the same noise to Leicester for Game Two.
âOur fans were amazing today. It was an incredible job from them right behind the bench, and we need more of that at the Mattioli Arena on Saturday!â
The team need the same noise at the Mattioli Arena on Saturday. The Riders host Game Two on May 4, at 6:45 pm.
Tickets are on sale now, and include entry to the womenâs playoff opener against Essex Rebels at 2:45 pm.
The first 1,200 fans through the door will receive a free âDark Horseâ T-Shirt.
Leicester Riders got their 2024 Playoff campaign underway with a clutch 84-81 win on the road against the Sheffield Sharks.
The Riders came back from behind in the fourth quarter to snatch the win, and made big plays down the stretch to take a 1-0 series lead back to Leicester.
READ MORE: Report: Riders take Game One against Sharks
Here’s how the Riders reacted to the game:
Miryne Thomas: “I love this environment.”
Making his professional playoff debut, Miryne Thomas went off for 24 points and 8 rebounds to earn Player of the Game honours.
Thomas said the playoff intensity is something he thrives on through his competitive spirit.
“This time last year, I was playing March Madness,â said Thomas, who won the MAC Championship with Kent State in his final collegiate season.
âI love this environment. I love playing hard in competitive basketball, and tonight was a hell of a show.â
The Riders, without their captain Kimbal Mackenzie, stepped up on the road and came through as a unit to take the win. With the words of Mackenzie echoing in their ears, the team put on one of the performances of the season.
âKimbal told us to stay together. Heâs here with us in spirit- heâs our leader and we know heâs in our corner- but the guys we had here came together and said âlet’s get the job done.ââ
Many of the plaudits this season have gone to the Ridersâ leading scorer, Teddy Allen. Allen burst onto the British basketball scene with his incredible scoring performances, earning him the Player of the Month Award in December, but the Riders unit is a deep one, with talent up and down the roster.
Last nightâs win, as has been the case with many wins this season, was a total team effort.
âWe know Teddy is an incredible scorer, but we have to play well for him to play well. If we don’t run in transition and set good screens, he doesnât get good looks.
“This is a team unit, not just one guy running the show. Everybody has a role, and weâre really settling into our identity. We play hard for each other.â
Jaren Holmes: “We wanted it badly tonight.”
Also making his first professional playoff outing was Jaren Holmes, who was the other Rider to log a 20 point performance. He put up 21 points and 6 rebounds, and shouldered the scoring load for long stretches.
âI was just trying to make the right plays,â said Holmes. âThat’s what I always try and do. I saw lanes and tried to attack, find my teammates and be aggressive. It’s a big part of my game when Iâm aggressive and try to get downhill and make plays for others.â
The Riders came back from down seven in the final period to win on the road, holding the Sharks to 14 points in the final quarter. The defence down the stretch was instrumental in getting the job done.
âIt came down to getting stops. That was a huge point of emphasis down the stretch. Then we made some big shots, and got big plays from everybody.
âConner [Washington’s] three midway through the fourth was huge for us. Him coming in and giving us those minutes was so valuable, and it’s going to take a team effort to win these games. It’s the playoffs, which means its a different type of intensity. We wanted it badly tonight.â
The Ridersâ road following got the team over the line, making raucous noise throughout. Holmes felt their presence on the court from the stands, and said as much after the game.
âIt was a huge victory for us, and we wouldn’t have done it without the fans. They were tremendous. They fuel us when they come and support us, so to have this many people come out and show up for us truly means a lot to me and the guys in the locker room.”
Rob Paternostro: “The guys really stepped up.”
After an electric Riders start, the Sharks took initiative in the second quarter and took the lead, which they held until midway through the fourth.
Despite trailing for much of the game, there was no panic from the Ridersâ sideline.
âI felt pretty good about us at that point,â said Head Coach Rob Paternostro when asked about the teamâs mindset while falling behind in the game.
âWe took decent shots and, in the halfcourt, we did a really good job on defence. In the open floor we struggled, so the second half was really important to slow the game down and get back on defence, and I thought we did that.
âWe didn’t feel like the momentum was stolen, we just felt like we needed to do a better job of getting back in transition.â
Without Mackenzie running the point, Paternostroâs team stepped up from top to bottom to come away with a momentous win to kick off the postseason.
âWeâre missing our leader- our point guard with the ball in his hands at the end of the game- but the guys really stepped up to make the plays they needed to.
âMiryne’s energy was excellent all game, he scored the ball really well. Jaren kept us in it with his scoring, TJ Lall was really good on defence and Conner came in and gave us the minutes we needed to settle us down late in the game. His experience was crucial- heâs been here before.
âIt was a total team effort. We are missing our point guard but these guys took on the challenge. A lot of people didn’t think we had much of a chance without him, but defensively is where we made our mark.”
The win means Leicester have stolen home court advantage in this best-of-three series, and return home on Saturday with a chance to end the series and progress to the second round.
Coach called out to the fans to bring the same energy back home that they showed on the road.
âOur fans were amazing today. It was an incredible job from them right behind the bench, and we need more of that at the Mattioli Arena on Saturday!â
Defend the house
The Riders host Game Two on Saturday May 4, at 6:45 pm.
Tickets are on sale now, and include entry to the women’s playoff opener against Essex Rebels at 2:45 pm.
The first 1,200 fans through the door will receive a free “Dark Horse” T-Shirt. Get yours tickets here!
Leicester Riders snatched Game One against the Sheffield Sharks in the clutch, winning 84-81 on the road.
Miryne Thomas led the team with 24 points and 8 rebounds, scoring 5 points down the stretch in his professional playoff debut. Fellow rookie Jaren Holmes backed him with 21 points and 6 rebounds.
It was Teddy Allen who sealed the game from the foul line, going 4-4 with the pressure piled high and seconds on the clock. Leicester came back from a deficit of seven in the final quarter to steal home court in the best-of-three series.
For Sheffield, Prentiss Nixon exploded for 25 points off the bench, getting big bucket after big bucket when it got close late. The Sharks scored 59 bench points in the game, but didnât have a starter score in double digits.
The series will go back to Leicester for Game Two on Saturday May 4, tipping off at 6:45 pm, with the Riders having the opportunity to end the series with a sweep.
Riders bolt out the gate
Allen, who averaged 29 against the Sharks this season, wasted no time getting on the board with an and-one for Leicesterâs opening score.
It was an 8-2 start for the Riders, as Jaren Holmes knocked down his first shot of the postseason from the corner, settling any nerves from the visiting camp.
Leicesterâs lightning start forced a quick Sharks timeout, after Thomas threw down a fastbreak jam- the ninth of the night for the Riders to make it 4-14.Â
Holmes made the Ridersâ second and-one play of the game with 2:21 left in the period, as they continued to lead from the front early.
Sharks bite back
The Sharks got back in it at the hands of Nixon, who snatched momentum with five straight points. Nixon scored 11 in the first quarter to lead the game, and bring Sheffield back into it.Â
Jalon Pipkins then cut it to five with a tough fadeaway, before Rodney Glasgow Jr followed with a three for the hosts.
The late surge in the first meant it was 26-28 with one played. And quickly in the second the Sharks took the lead, as Kipper Nichols connected from the corner to make it 31-30.
It was the Ridersâ turn to try to stem the tide with a timeout after Pipkinsâ 11th points. But they only scored 10 in the second quarter in their attempt to take the lead back.
Glasgow got going midway through the second to build the Sharksâ lead to six, and the score was 38-32 by the media timeout. Sheffieldâs leading scorer Malek Green then took the mantle from Glasgow with three quick scores and a big block on Holmes.
The Riders got to the hoop to get their side of the scoreboard ticking over late in the half. Holmes charged to the paint repeatedly to set the tone in that regard, while Thomas got to the foul line after an offensive rebound, and Leicester brought themselves back within five.
But two scores at the rim for Sheffield ended the half with the score 47-38.
Sharks fend off Riders run
The Riders made a run back into the game with Thomas hitting their first three of the half, while Allen took it coast-to-coast to cut it to five once again.
Holmes added another six to his tally, making it 17 on the game midway through the third, and the score was 57-53 to the hosts.
Next time up, Sesan Russell led the fastbreak after a steal. He gave it to Allen, who threw up a lob to Thomas. The American rose high and threw it down with authority, making it a one score game for the first time since late in the opening period.
The Sharks, however, kept ahead with timely scores throughout the third. Jordan Ratinho hit from three with a minute left in the period, and Devearl Ramsey finished inside at the buzzer to make it 67-60 with one to play.
Resurgent Riders win in the clutch
To start the fourth, the Riders were right back in it. Veteran guard Conner Washington hit a transition three two minutes into the period, making it a two point difference. TJ Lall then tied it up with a putback layup, and Allen took the lead with a floater.
For Sheffield, Nixon came up huge in the fourth. He scored nine of the Sharksâ 14 points in the quarter, and hit a three for his 20th points to stop the rampant Riders.
Nixon went back and forth with Thomas, the pair exchanging tough buckets throughout the final stages. The Riders looked in control late after Thomas connected on a fadeaway, but a Nixon midrange jumper and Pipkins three tied the game at 79.
Pipkins had a shot for the lead with 21 seconds left, but he hit the rim and Allen was fouled on the rebound. Allen knocked down both shots, and next time up the floor Green missed a three to win it, and Allen got the rebound again to seal the Riders Game One win.
Taking a win back to Leicester
Tickets are on sale for Game Two of the series at the Mattioli Arena, on May 4 at 6:45 pm.
Tickets also include entry to the women’s playoff opener against Essex Rebels at 2:45 pm, and the first 1,200 fans through the door will receive a free Riders “Dark Horse” t-shirt.
Leicester Riders are set to take on the Sheffield Sharks for Game One of the opening round of the 2024 British Basketball League Playoffs.
The four-seeded Sharks earned home court advantage after their performances in the Championship this season, so the Riders will take the short trip to Sheffield for the first game of a best-of-three series.
The sides have played out some closely fought battles in Sheffield this season. Hereâs everything you need to know about the matchup.
Where to watch
The game will take place at the Canon Medical Arena, Sheffield, tipping off at 4 pm.
It will be available to watch live on the British Basketball League YouTube channel!
Ones to watch
Malek Green
15.3 points, 8.7 rebounds, 49.7 FG%
The Sharks’ midseason acquisition, Malek Green, hit the ground running in the British Basketball League, and finished the season as their leading scorer.
After going 17 and 7 on his debut in only 16 minutes of action, Green has been a consistent source of boards and buckets for the Sharks, finishing the year with 22 and 14 to lock up home court advantage against the Plymouth City Patriots.
From the wing, Green ranked third among players in rebounds this season, and his 8.7 per game is more than he averaged throughout his five-year college career.
Green averaged 19 and 9 in his two games against the Riders this season, and will pose a true threat throughout this series.
Devearl Ramsey
11.1 points, 4.6 assists, 4.1 rebounds
Devearl Ramsey has protected home court against the Riders this season with two explosive scoring performances.
Typically, Ramsey is the Sharksâ source of playmaking, running the point to lead them in assists this season. But against the Riders the former G-Leager put his scoring ability on full display.
His two highest-scoring games this year have come at home against Leicester, putting up 23 points and 9 assists last time out, and going off for 22 to lead Sheffield to a win in November.
He consistently finds his way to the midrange, where he has shot most efficiently all season, so the Riders will need to be locked into their pick-and-roll defence to stop his drives off the dribble.
Jalon Pipkins
11.8 points, 2.1 rebounds, 51.9 FG%
Sheffieldâs second-leading scorer, Jalon Pipkins, has been a consistent source of points for the Sharks this season.
The efficient bucket-getter has scored double-digit points in 25 Championship games, and put up 17 last time he suited up against the Riders.
The 6â5â three-level scorer is a threat from anywhere on the court. Heâs a human highlight reel, showcasing some of the most high-flying throw downs in British basketball over the last two seasons in Sheffield.
The Ridersâ rim protection will be on high-alert when Pipkins looks to rise high on drives to the hoop.
Season vs Sharks
The Riders have faced off against the Sharks four times this season, winning the season series 3-1.
READ MORE: Season series: Riders vs Sharks
There was, however, a disparity in their performances when playing away compared to their home games. At home, they averaged 106.5 points, turning the ball over only six times per game and knocking down 46% of their threes. In Sheffield, however, it was 86 points per game with an average of 15.5 turnovers.
In games where the Sharks forced over 10 turnovers out of the Riders they beat them by a net score of four, but when Leicester kept the giveaways in single digits they won by an average of 21.
In contrast to Leicesterâs varying performances at home compared to on the road, the Sharks found consistency in their output both home and away. However, their typically stalwart defence didnât find the same success against the Riders as it did the rest of the League.
Their League-best defence made them the only team to hold their opponents to under 80 points per game over the season, but they failed to do so against Leicester in their four meetings. They had no answer for Teddy Allen, who averaged 29 points in his three games against the Sharks.
Sheffield did better their scoring average against the Riders over the series, putting up 86 points per game, but the numbers suggest that Leicesterâs ability to take care of the ball will go a long way in deciding the outcome of the series.
Playoff History: Riders vs Sharks
Sheffield are a familiar foe in the Playoffs for Leicester. This matchups marks the 10th time in the last 23 seasons where the sides have met in the postseason, and the fourth time in the past 10 years.
The previous two postseason meetings have gone the Ridersâ way, most recently last year where Leicester bested them 153-140 over a two-legged series.
2016 was the last time Sheffield beat the Riders in the Playoffs- Atiba Lyons’ men winning 84-77 in the Final.
The Riders have the advantage of unrivalled playoff-winning experience at the reins. Head Coach Rob Paternostro has won the competition five times, the second most of any coach in League history, and four of those wins have come since the Final was hosted at the O2 Arena.
Sharks’ Head Coach Atiba Lyons is no stranger to playoff success himself, winning in 2016 for the second time in the clubâs history. Itâs been first-round exits for Sheffield in the last two seasons, however, and they now look to avoid falling to Leicester in the postseason for the second straight year.
What they said
With the Championship season in their rear-view mirror, the Riders are looking forward to the chance to set the record straight after what they feel was a season with unmet potential.
READ MORE: Riders speak to BBC Radio Leicester ahead of the Playoffs
Hereâs what they had to say ahead of the opening round:
Teddy Allen
âYou never want to go out on a down note in win-or-go-home scenarios,â said leading scorer Teddy Allen.
âWe feel like we could have done a lot better throughout the year, and now is our chance to prove that. We are locked in as a unit, and itâs time for everyone to work towards a common goal.
âWhen asked about the Ridersâ path to a potential Final at the O2 Arena, Allen expressed his confidence in the team to be able to beat anybody in front of them.
âAnybody can get it. Whoever is in our way, we feel confident that we can win.â
TJ Lall
âOur mentality has to change now,â added TJ Lall, when asked about the difference in approach between the Championship season and the Playoffs.
âWe have to be more locked in and in-tune. Weâll see the Sharks multiple times, so we have to adjust and be ready for their adjustments.â
On a similar note to Allen, Lall looks forward to the chance of showing the League what this unit is capable of.
âEveryone here wants to win. We know weâre talented and have not shown our full potential, and were ready to show it during the playoffs. The pressure is good for us. We play better under pressure.â
Duke Shelton
American big Duke Shelton discussed the level of intensity required ahead of a postseason matchup.
âEveryone is going to step up and raise their level of play. Itâs the playoffs, which is almost like a new season where anything can happen.
âItâs a new mindset now. Iâm sure the rest of the team feel the same way, and that also goes for the other teams in the league. Weâre ready to compete.
âThe team thatâs willing to give a little bit more, most of the time, will win. Basketball is a game where the team with the fewest mistakes has a huge edge, so we need to be focussed and ready to play our best ball.â
Rob Paternostro
Having reached the summit of British basketball five times before, Head Coach Rob Paternostro knows exactly what winning in the postseason requires.
He is as eager as ever to fight on the biggest stage, at the O2 Arena.
âOnce you get to the playoffs thereâs so much urgency because if you donât play well youâre going home. Everyone wants to be at the O2 by the end, and weâve been there nearly every year. Itâs wonderful to be there, so thatâs always the goal.
âAt our best we feel like weâre a really good team, and weâre in good shape going into the playoffs.â
Tickets are on sale for our home fixture against the Sheffield Sharks!
Get yours here!
Leicester Riders conclude their Womenâs British Basketball League campaign against the Sheffield Hatters, in a game to decide third and fourth place in the Championship standings.
A win for the Riders will see them lock up third with a 16-4 record, but a loss would see the Hatters take the tiebreaker and third place at 15-5.Â
One to watch
Georgia Gayle
14.1 points, 4.1 assists, 3.9 rebounds
Hatters leading scorer and 2024 All Star Georgia Gayle is the number one scoring threat the Riders will need to key in on in this matchup.Â
The granddaughter of Betty Codona, the pioneer of womenâs British basketball and founder of the Hatters, Gayle is a GB international and experienced professional.
This season, she leads the Hatters in scoring and assists, scoring in double-digits on 17 occasions and putting up 20 three times in 19 appearances.
Gayle put up 13/4/4 last time out against the Riders, shooting 6-12 from the field. Keeping her quiet for 40 minutes would go a long way towards slowing Sheffieldâs side of the scoreboard down.
The numbers
These two teams have been some of the highest-powered offences in the League this season, ranking second and third in points per game.
The Hatters are one of two teams to score over 80 a night (82.7), and maximise their possessions by turning the ball over the least in the League. Meanwhile the Riders, who score 78.5 per game, are an efficient shooting group, connecting on a second-best 44% of their field goals.
The Riders have the gameâs highest scorer in American rookie Taylor OâBrien, whose 15.7 points per game has earned her two Player of the Month awards over the course of the season.
Meanwhile the Hatters have seven scorers giving them over 7 points a night, their offence by committee giving the Riders issues last time the teams faced off.
Head-to-head
The Riders have faced the Hatters once before this season, falling 78-70 on the road.
Desiree Ramos impressed with her highest-scoring performance on the season, putting up 25 points in 22 minutes, going 9-12 from the field.
Turnovers were the difference in the game. Leicester lost the battle 25-11, and therefore lost a game in which they shot 43% from the field to Sheffieldâs 36%.
Ridersâ All Star pairing of Sam Ashby and OâBrien combined for 36 (18 points each) to lead the teamâs effort.Â
But the loss means third place is up for grabs for the winner of this matchup.
Tickets on sale
Tickets are on sale now for the Riders’ fixture against the Sheffield Hatters, and their playoff opener at the Mattioli Arena.
Playoff tickets include entry for both men’s and women’s playoff games on May 4, and the first 1,200 people through the door will receive a free “Dark Horse” playoff t-shirt.
Leicester Riders tip-off their 2024 British Basketball League Playoff campaign against the Sheffield Sharks on Sunday.
The sides have met on four occasions so far this season, the Riders winning the series 3-1.
Here’s how the games played out…
November 17 Game 1: Sharks 91-84 Riders
Sharks battle from the front to take hard-fought home win
Sheffield drew first blood in the series, winning a closely fought battle late on. The Sharks edged ahead in the second quarter, going into the half up 46-39, and the Riders, despite bringing the deficit to two on multiple occasions, couldnât take the lead back.
The Sharksâ Devearl Ramsey led the game with 22 points, scoring five in the final 2:33 to lead the hosts down the stretch and secure the win. He was backed by 17 points from Jalon Pipkins who went 7-8 from the field in the game.
The Riders made a charge from down 10 to five with four minutes remaining, but couldnât get it over the line. Miryne Thomas led the team with 21 points and 11 rebounds- his first double-double in Riders red.
A key difference in the game: three point shooting. The Riders went 5-21 while the Sharks shot 8-19, Ramsey leading the way with three makes from behind the arc.
But water found its level in game two from deep.
December 30 Game 2: Riders 103-75 Sharks
On-fire Riders torch Sharks from three
The Riders levelled the season series at home in convincing fashion to close out 2023. A 21-4 start blew the Sharks out of the water, and the Riders cruised home to a wire-to-wire win.
Miryne Thomas led the team out the gate with 10 points in five minutes, and logged another 20 point double-double against Sheffield with 22 points and 10 rebounds by the final buzzer.
But it was Teddy Allen, in his third game for the Riders, who led the game with 25 points. He went 4-9 from three on the game spearheading what was a red hot shooting night for the hosts.
In contrast to the first game against Sheffield in November, Leicester shot 51.9% from three point land in the blowout. It was the Sharks who went cold on this occasion, knocking down just 28.6% of their attempts from behind the arc.
Prentiss Nixon had an effective outing for the visitors, bagging 17 points in 22 minutes of play, going 6-12 from the field. But it was a drop in the water against a Riders torrent, and Leicester entered the new year on a high.
February 16 Game 3: Riders 108-94 Sharks
Allen explosion makes it two-for-two at home
Teddy Allen led the Riders for the second-straight game against the Sharks, this time going off for 35 points. It was a 35-12 double-double for Allen, shooting 50% from the field and 44% from three.
The Riders were trailing 53-57 at the break and down by as much as 12 points in the second quarter. But a 12 point third period from Allen led them back into the tie, and another 10 in the fourth got them over the line.
The scoreline was deceptive come the final buzzer, not reflecting what was a one possession affair with three minutes on the clock. Two straight buckets from TJ Lall gave the Riders separation, and they saw the tie out from there.
Malek Green, making his first appearance against the Riders this season, led the Sharks with 19 points and 11 rebounds. He scored two buckets to start the final period, but Leicester were able to stem his scoring down the stretch to see it out.
The game made it two wins at home for the Riders against Sheffield, giving them a 2-1 series lead with one game to play in South Yorkshire.
March 29 Game 4: Sharks 85-88 Riders
Riders survive Sharks surge in final seconds
The game to decide the season series was fought wire-to-wire, Leicester coming away three point victors after Sheffield battled to give themselves a chance as the clock expired.
Allen led Leicester in the first half with an emphatic performance, going off for 27 first half points, and finished with 29/8. But down the stretch, big buckets came from up and down the Ridersâ roster.
Kimbal Mackenzie, Thomas, Duke Shelton and Lall all scored in the final four minutes, giving the Riders an eight point lead with 2:18 left. But a turn of events, including an unsportsmanlike foul called on Shelton, gave the Sharks a chance to tie.
Bennet Koch went one for two from the foul line after Sheltonâs foul, and Ramsey drained a three with nine seconds left to make it a one point game.
Mackenzie was sent to the line, and coolly knocked down both, but Sheffield could send it to overtime with a three. The opportunity fell to RJ Eytle-Rock who fired from the right wing, as Allen closed out but was keen not to foul.Â
Eytle-Rock missed his attempt, and the rebound was pulled down by Thomas to close the season series.Â
Tickets on sale!
Tickets for our home game against the Sheffield Sharks on May 4 are on sale now!
BBC Radio Leicester stopped by to speak to the team for their weekly “Game Night” show.
Ahead of the upcoming British Basketball League Playoffs, Riders players and Head Coach Rob Paternostro reflected on the Championship season, and previewed the postseason.
Here’s what they had to say…
Teddy Allen
Riders leading scorer, Teddy Allen, has spent the final weeks of the season getting into playoff shape. Working through injuries intensely has led to the American being in the best health that heâs been in all season, right in time for the postseason.
âI have been dealing with some injuries, but I feel like Iâve got my body right and Iâm ready to get to work in the playoffs,â said Allen.
“The last few weeks I’ve been working closely with our training staff to get my body right. This is the healthiest I have been since I got here in Leicester, and Iâm ready to make a run.”
The Riders enter the playoffs as the fifth seed. Reflecting on the second half of the year, Allen expressed disappointment in how the games fell, but is looking at ways to rectify recent results with his own performances.
âI wish we could have got some more wins down the stretch. I have to look at myself first and think about what I could have done better to help our team win.
âIf it’s points, rebounds, assists or defence, whatever the team needs me to do I just want to go out there and compete.
âNobody wants to lose, but we all left everything out there on the court with our effor
