GAME PREVIEW: Essex Rebels Christmas Special
Start your festive season with an unforgettable day of basketball, fun, and holiday cheer at the Essex Rebels Christmas Special! On Thursday, 21 December, the Essex Sport Arena will host a tripleheader packed with basketball action, festive entertainment, and delicious holiday treats.
The day begins with the NBL Division 2 Men’s team facing the London Elite at 1:00 pm. The Rebels, currently 10th in the standings with a 2-10 record, will look to turn their season around after a tough 54-93 loss to the London Stars. Key players like Adam Maiden (17 points) and Fleming (15 points) will be pivotal as they aim to secure a confidence-boosting win. Their opponents, London Elite, sit seventh with a 5-5 record and come off a narrow 99-95 win over Greenwich Titans. This game offers the Rebels a chance to close out the year with determination and a victory.
At 4:00 pm, the SLBW Women’s team will take on the London Lions in an important league matchup. The Rebels Women, eighth in the SLBW Championship with a 2-4 record, are eager to end the year on a high note after a hard-fought 71-83 loss to Newcastle Eagles. Standout performances from Lauren Park-Lane (22 points), Taylor O’Brien (14 points), and Brooke Flowers (12 points, 8 rebounds) give the Rebels confidence in their ability to deliver another strong performance. Their opponents, the London Lions, are still seeking their first win of the season (0-6 record) but will look to challenge the Rebels. This game presents an excellent opportunity for the Rebels Women to showcase their strengths and treat the home crowd to a festive victory.
The final game of the day tips off at 6:30 pm, as the NBL Division 1 Men’s team faces the fourth-placed Loughborough Riders. The Rebels, sitting fifth with a 6-4 record, have found strong form with three consecutive wins, including an impressive victory over the Bristol Hurricanes. The team’s confidence and teamwork will be key as they face a challenging Riders squad.
Their opponents, the Riders (7-3 record), come into this matchup following a dramatic 105-99 overtime win against Thames Valley Cavaliers. Players like Justin Hedley and 7’1” centre Bryan Penn-Johnson bring size and skill to a team that will pose a serious challenge. With both teams eyeing higher positions in the standings, this game promises to be an exhilarating end to the Rebels’ 2024 home fixtures.
Join the Essex Rebels on 21 December for a day filled with basketball action, holiday spirit, and family fun. Celebrate the season in style and cheer on the Rebels as they wrap up 2024 with a bang!
