Essex Rebels strengthen men’s squad in readiness for NBL Division 1
The Essex Rebels men’s team has been strengthened by a number of new signings in readiness for their first season in the National Basketball League Division 1.
The Essex Rebels men’s team has been strengthened by a number of new signings in readiness for their first season in the National Basketball League Division 1.
Division 2 champions squad make up heart of squad for 2020-21
Coach Ross Norfolk has assembled a team based on experience, with the heart of team based on last season’s Division 2 South champions, but has also added a mixture of experience and youth to the squad. Captain Tom Child, returns to lead the team, and is joined by last season’s stars such as Rory Winter, Jordan Gray, Dan Morton, Andre Lavinier, Josh Moore, Wes Moore, Tyler Mustemasango and big man Lee Hodges.
Top young talent join the Rebels
Joining the squad are a trio of talented young players. Stepping up from last season’s Essex Rebels NBL Division 3 side, Matthew Disu makes the transition to the top team after impressing with his attitude and performances. Also joining the squad are two of the most talented players emerging from the Elite Academy Basketball League, both products of the Ipswich Basketball Academy. Ben Winter and Ethan Price both made the all-EABL Southern Conference 1st team, confirming their status as two of the hottest young prospects in the Basketball England talent pathway. Ben Winter joins brother Rory as a student at the university of Essex, whilst Ethan Price joins the Rebels whilst completing a third year at the IBA.
Trio of experienced players add quality to squad
New to the Essex Rebels, Sam Newman is no stranger to his new team mates, having been part of the University of Essex basketball programme over the last two seasons, and playing with the squad in the BUCS Premier South Division. Having been a stand-out player in NBL Division 1 last season with Hemel Storm, Sam will be looking to make a big impact with the Rebels. Two new forwards complete the Rebels line up for 2020-21. Dutch forward Cain Van Heyningan joins after completing his studies in Denver, playing in NCAA Division 2. Completing the squad, French forward Yassin Naji joins after completing 5 years of study at Bishops University in Canada.
Norfolk confident of competitiveness of Rebels squad
Commenting ahead of the start of the new season, Coach Norfolk is confident that the new squad will be ready for the challenge of the top division. “The team have been working hard, and are developing an understanding of how to play together. We’re confident of being competitive, and should get stronger as the season progresses”.
