Leicester Riders duo of Zach Jackson and Charles Thompson have been named to the Super League Basketball Team of the Year!
Jackson was a top-three scorer in the league this season, putting up 17.7 points per game on 52.4% shooting from the field and 47.7% three point shooting.
The American’s three point percentage made him the most efficient deep shooter in the SLB of those who played over seven games and took more than one three point attempt per game.
Jackson was the Riders’ leading scorer on the season. He also led the team in steals, and was the second-highest assist maker on the roster.
He played an integral role in the Riders’ second-placed league finish with a 23-9 record.
Meanwhile, Thompson was a force on the defensive end this season for the Riders. He was the league’s leader in blocks with 2.5 per game this season, ranking 14th all-time in top-flight British basketball history for blocks per game. His 80 blocks on the year are tied for 13th most all-time in a league season.
Thompson was named to the Defensive Team of the Year earlier in the week.
He also finished second among all players in rebounds per game (7.8) and fifth in field goal percentage (60.2%).
Jackson said: “It feels good to come back to Leicester and have a year that’s worthy of making this team.
“It meant a lot to be welcomed back by Coach and the fans, so to be able to perform consistently over the season is a big individual accomplishment. Also means that I was on a very good team which is a credit to my teammates.”
Thompson said: “It feels amazing to be selected to Team of the Year. I thank my teammates and coaches for supporting me throughout the year.
“They put me in the best position possible to succeed. It’s rewarding to be recognised as an elite two-way player, and I’m grateful that part of my game is catching up to my defence.”
Head Coach Rob Paternostro added: “Zach’s body of work speaks for itself. He’s always been a consistent player that never shies away from the big moments and big games. He’s a player that improves every day, and he’s been so valuable for our team this season.
“Charles had a spectacular rookie season. His defence from day one made an incredible impact on any game we played, and his improvement as an overall player was exciting to watch. His personality and energy is as valuable as any statistic he could possibly put up.”
2025 Super League Basketball Team of the Year
Aaryn Rai (London Lions)
Mike Okauru (Newcastle Eagles)
Prentiss Nixon (Sheffield Sharks)
Zach Jackson (Leicester Riders)
Charles Thompson (Leicester Riders)
Leicester Riders in Super League Basketball Playoff Semi-Final
Leicester Riders take on Sheffield Sharks this weekend in the SLB Playoffs Semi-Final over two legs.
Tickets to the home leg, which takes place on Sunday, May 11, at 3 pm, are £10.
