Essex Rebel going for glory at Commonwealth Games

Team Scotland has selected Essex Rebel player and Masters student Claire Paxton for its 3x3 basketball team at the Commonwealth Games, which starts this week.

Originally from Edinburgh, the 27-year-old is just finishing her MSc in Organised Crime, Terrorism and Security after playing a pivotal part in the Essex Rebels WBBL side and the University of Essex’s BUCS winning championship team.

Claire, who started playing for Scotland 12 years ago when she was selected for the U-16 national side, said: “It's a great feeling to be selected to play at the commonwealth games. It has been a goal I've had for a few years so it's nice to be able to make it. 

“3x3 is such a fast paced and exciting game, anything can happen in 10 minutes. So being able to compete against very talented teams is a great opportunity. I hope we can be in the position to play for a medal.”

This is the first time 3x3 basketball has featured at the Commonwealth Games after proving a hit at the 2020 Olympics. The fast-paced version of basketball is played on half a court with with just one hoop for both teams to attack, so gaining possession and using it well is the key to the game. Each team is made up of three players, plus one substitute. The first team to 21 points wins – if no team has reached that milestone after ten minutes, the team in the lead claims the win. all the 3x3 tournaments will be completed between Friday 29 July 2022 and Tuesday 2 August.

Head of Basketball Performance, Tom Sadler said: “Claire has worked incredibly hard this past year to put her self in this position to represent her home nation, that I know has been a personal goal of hers. 

“The impact she has had upon our program and the University in just a short time has been incredible , She has truly maximised and immersed herself in everything we have to offer here at Essex that has allowed her to continue to develop and get better. 

“She is a passionate soul who truly loves the game of basketball who has an open mind that allows her to never stop learning and improving and really embodies our Rebel spirit that strives for greatness. 

“Claire also helped guide us to our first BUCS National Championship, and I couldn’t be happier for her, and we are all excited and looking forward to supporting her in the Commonwealth Games this summer”

Schools in the region will be benefiting from Claire’s sporting knowledge and skills as she has just joined the University’s Sport Development team as Sport Development Coordinator for schools and outreach. She will also continue to play for the Essex Rebels in the WBBL.