GAME PREVIEW: Rebels Set for Playoff Quarterfinal in Reading
On Sunday, 13 April, the Essex Rebels Men’s Division 1 team travel to Reading to face the Rockets in the quarterfinals of the NBL D1 Playoffs.
The Rebels wrapped up the regular season in 6th place with a solid 14-10 record. Although they closed out the campaign with a narrow 75-82 loss to the Milton Keynes Breakers, their previous game was an impressive 89-81 victory—against none other than the Reading Rockets. In that win, Rebels captain Luke Busumbru delivered a standout performance, dropping 35 points on 61% shooting, along with 8 assists. He was well supported by Emmanuel Kanwei, who posted 16 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 blocks, and Kyron Martin, who added 14 points and 3 rebounds.
However, the head-to-head series is tied, as the Rockets defeated the Rebels 76-69 in their earlier meeting this season. Reading finished 3rd in the D1 standings with a 17-7 record, but they also ended their regular season on a loss, falling 83-87 to the London Cavaliers.
The Rockets’ roster features some familiar faces, including former Rebels stars Victor Olarerin and Zain Poorman. Olarerin was the Rebels’ leading scorer last season and has continued his form at Reading, averaging 16.4 points per game. Alongside him, Rockets’ scoring leader Justin Hopkins (19.6 ppg) and sharpshooter Mitch Clarke (44.0% from three) are sure to be key threats.
With both teams fighting to keep their seasons alive, this quarterfinal promises to be a thrilling, high-stakes battle.
If you can, join us in Reading and help fuel the Rebels with your support—tickets are available now.
Can’t make the trip? You can still cheer them on by watching the game live on the Reading Rockets YouTube Channel or follow the Live Stats here.
Every voice counts. Every cheer matters. Let’s go Rebels!
