Rebels Shine Bright in Friday Night Lights Despite SLB Cup Defeat
In their first-ever SLB Cup appearance, the Essex Rebels showcased a spirited performance under the spotlight of a thrilling Friday Night Lights game. Although the result wasn’t what the home crowd had hoped for, the Rebels delivered an electrifying game, leaving spectators energized and proud of their efforts.
The game started with high intensity, and the Rebels matched the Bristol Flyers’ energy in a fast-paced opening quarter. Connor Nelson put the Rebels on the board early, and Luke Busumbru’s dynamic plays gave the Rebels their first lead at 15-14 midway through the first quarter. Busumbru and Kanwei combined for 22 points in the first period, but the Flyers edged the Rebels 25-29 by the end of the first quarter, led by Robinson’s 9 points.
In the second quarter, the Rebels continued to fight back. Kanwei and Busumbru lit up the court with timely threes and aggressive plays, keeping the Flyers on their heels. Wol energized the home crowd with back-to-back dunks, and Joe Hart’s late three-pointer put the Rebels ahead 44-42 at halftime. The Rebels’ strong defence and balanced scoring, with Busumbru leading his team with 16 points and Kanwei close behind with 14, set up an exciting second half.
Picture Credits: Joel Tshiunza
The third quarter saw the Flyers shift the momentum. Despite a quick start from the Rebels, the Flyers’ relentless offense, led by Robinson, stretched their lead. The Rebels’ Coach Norfolk called a timeout after falling behind 56-68, but the Flyers’ 12-point advantage at the end of the quarter proved to be a significant turning point.
In the final quarter, the Rebels fought hard, but their efforts fell short to close the gap. Bristol’s defence tightened, particularly on Busumbru, who was held scoreless until a late three-pointer with under two minutes remaining. The Flyers capitalized on their defensive stops and extended their lead, eventually sealing the game 70-84.
Rebels head coach, Ross Norfolk, said after the game:
“Very proud of the guys performance. We came out with confidence and played the way I know we can. It was great that we competed and showcased our event. The arena was electric and the rebels fans came out in force. The SLB is where we want to be and we want to represent the east region in this competition week in week out!”
Key Performances
Essex Rebels:
- Luke Busumbru: 18 points | 4 Rebounds | 3 Assists | 3 Steals
- Emmanuel Kanwei: 17 points | 3 Rebounds
Bristol Flyers:
- Demond Robinson: 22 points | 3 Rebounds | 3 Steals
- Sherfield, Smith & Walshe: 11 points each
The Rebels left it all on the court in their SLB Cup debut, proving they belong on the big stage. While the Flyers ultimately took the win, the Essex Sport Arena was alive with passion, pride, and excitement.
