Essex Rebels score national gameday of the year award

It’s a three-pointer for the Essex Rebels after winning the best gameday experience for the second year in a row from basketball’s national governing body.

The prestigious award for the National Basketball League 1 men’s matches comes after the side celebrated their most successful season ever.

The team are toasting an incredible season with the highest place finish, 2nd place, the Rebels have seen, going 20 – 4 for the regular season.

The Rebels men have also reached the NBL Cup Semifinal for the first time ever and recorded their highest average home attendance with over 660 fans per game.

And comes just weeks after the Rebels announced a groundbreaking partnership with Essex Cricket to launch a professional women’s side – which highlighted the incredible experience inside the Essex Arena.

Following this achievement, Basketball England highlighted the “great atmosphere” and popular performances that have wowed crowds,

Tremendous honour

Dr Dave Parry, Director of Sport, has praised his team for the storming season during the University’s momentous 60th anniversary.

He said: “It is a tremendous honour to have been awarded the best gameday experience by Basketball England for the third year.

“Sport is at the heart of everything we do here at Essex and this year has seen us further establish the University as the region’s leading sporting institution.

“Coming to watch the Essex Rebels is so much more than just a basketball game and is a showcase of everything that makes the University of Essex special.

“To win this honour again as the University celebrates its 60th anniversary makes it even sweeter.

“Thank you so much to my backroom team, the Rebels players, and the fans for making sure we took this home again.”

Incredible fans

His thoughts were echoed by Fan Engagement and Matchday Entertainment officer Stanley Kadzunge.

He said: “Our game day experience is something that we take pride in and it's great to have it recognised by the league. None of this happens without the incredible work behind the scenes of the Essex Sport team.

“This is a testament to our game day entertainment staff, outstanding DJs, our front of house team and most importantly, the incredible fans that bring the energy to our house, every single weekend.

“A big shout also goes to the team who have had a fantastic season and really put on a show for our fans.

“Their engagement with the community this year has been amazing as well as our ever-great student population.

“We hope to continue improving with our game and we want to make sure we grow the game in the East of England and provide a great and welcoming experience for everyone.”