About
Based at the University of Essex, the Essex Rebels is a basketball end-to-end programme that encompasses a full pathway from senior professional teams through to the Rebels Roadshow schools outreach programme.
The Rebel way.
Home to the curious, brave and bold, at the University of Essex, where exploring new ways of thinking and pushing boundaries isn’t just encouraged, it’s expected.
Committed to excellence in everything we do, at the heart of our activities is supporting young people to achieve their full potential in their academic and sporting pursuits within our dual-career pathway.
What makes a Rebel.
The name of the Essex Rebels reflects the history of both the University of Essex and the town of Colchester in which the University resides. Students at the University have been known for their political activism throughout its history, reflected in the strapline of ‘Rebels with a Cause’ used today.
Colchester is also the site of the most celebrated act of rebellion in British history, when Queen Boudicca led the Celtic tribes of East Anglia to defeat the Romans.
Rebels on tour.
A wide range of children’s and schools activities are delivered within the Rebels programme. This includes the Rebels Roadshow, which visits primary and secondary schools in Colchester and Tendring, with players delivering school assemblies and P.E. sessions. The Rebels ‘Reach’ programme works with secondary schools across Essex, to engage students through basketball and help them to recognise higher education as a viable pathway for them. Younger children from age 5 and up can attend our Rebels ‘Slam Jam’ sessions taking place at the Essex Sport Arena on Saturday mornings, as well as attend our popular basketball holiday camps.
Sports scholarships.
The University of Essex offers sports scholarships to talented basketball players studying for both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. A full support package encompassing daily on-court coaching, strength and conditioning coaching, lifestyle advice, sports science testing, and support and advice in areas such as psychology and nutrition.
The University of Essex is also a Sport England Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme centre, and is an accredited dual-career site, supporting young athletes in their academic and sporting development.
For more information please contact Susy Davies, Performance Sport Manager.
Email: [email protected]
Upcoming matches & events
Essex Rebels Doubleheader | Women vs Cardiff Met Archers & Men vs Milton Keynes Breakers
The Essex Rebels return to the Essex Sport Arena on Saturday, 28 February, for their first doubleheader in over a month.
The afternoon tips off with the Essex Rebels Women facing Cardiff Met Archers in the Super League Basketball Championship at 4 pm.The action continues into the evening as the Essex Rebels Men take on Milton Keynes, a fierce competitor currently sitting third in the British Championship Basketball, with tip-off at 6:30pm.
Two games. One ticket – Come out and support your Rebels at home!
International Women’s Day Basketball Doubleheader
Join us at the Essex Sport Arena for a special International Women’s Day Basketball Doubleheader, celebrating women in sport with an exciting afternoon and evening of top-level basketball and entertainment.
The celebration begins early with a pre-game FanZone outside the arena from 2:00 PM, including fun activities, face painting, music, giveaways, food stalls & more!
Inside the arena, fans can enjoy a thrilling doubleheader as the Essex Rebels Women take on the Newcastle Eagles at 4 pm & the Essex Rebels Men taking on Hemel Storm at 6:30 pm
Alongside the on-court action, the event will feature a range of special International Women’s Day entertainment, including live performances, giveaways, and celebratory moments throughout the day.
This event is a celebration of women, sport, and community — and an opportunity to recognise the impact of women both on and off the court.
Don’t miss out & Secure your tickets now!
Essex Rebels vs City of Birmingham Rockets
The second-to-last regular season home game is here. Join us at the Essex Sport Arena on Saturday, 21 March 2026, as the Essex Rebels Men take on the City of Birmingham Rockets in a crucial British Championship Basketball clash at 6:30pm.
With the playoffs fast approaching and the race for the eight playoff spots tighter than ever, every game matters — and this matchup could be decisive in the Rebels’ postseason push.
Expect a competitive, high-intensity contest as the Rebels look to defend home court and strengthen their playoff position in front of the home crowd.
Don’t miss your chance to support the Rebels at home – Secure your tickets now!
Don’t miss our next big game
Come and see fast-paced, action-packed, top-level professional basketball in a first-class venue. Match days offer family-friendly entertainment including a DJ, big screen, cheerleaders, interactive competitions, children’s activities, refreshments, and our larger-than-life mascot, Queen B.
We Are Rebels – come join the rebellion!