The recent semi-finals of the National Basketball League (NBL) playoffs have provided an exhilarating display of talent and competition, culminating in the selection of the finalists who will vie for supremacy at Manchester’s National Basketball Performance Centre. Scheduled for 27th and 28th April 2024, the Senior Playoff Finals are expected to showcase an exceptional level of skill and intense competition.
A comprehensive review of the semi-final matches underscores the intensity and prowess exhibited by the ten teams who have secured their places in the playoffs. With the finals mere days away, each team is on the cusp of etching their names into the illustrious history of the NBL and WNBL. Moreover, a detailed preview of each final will be presented later this week, offering fans valuable insights into the upcoming matches.
In a surprising turn of events, the #1 seed Trailblazers experienced a setback as they were narrowly defeated 87-84 by the #4 Reading Rockets, with Zack Powell’s remarkable 20-point performance proving instrumental to the Rockets’ victory. This unforeseen outcome marks the end of any hopes for a fairy-tale ending for the departing Derby head coach, Matt Shaw.
Conversely, the Hemel Storm emerged victorious in a closely contested match against the #7 seeds Bradford Dragons, securing their place in the finals with an 80-79 win. Darien Nelson-Henry’s significant contribution, tallying 21 points and 9 rebounds, played a pivotal role in the outcome of the game.
In the women’s category, Endeavour Ipswich Basketball and CoLA Southwark Pride are positioned to battle each other in a repeat of the 2020/21 Playoff Final after both teams achieved victories in their respective semi-final matches. Ipswich convincingly overcame #4 Brent Bulls with a final score of 75-53, with Harriet Welham delivering an outstanding performance by contributing 33 points. Meanwhile, CoLA continued their impressive streak, securing a 79-66 victory against #2 seeds Thames Valley Cavaliers.
The D2M South duo, Team Solent Kestrels and Milton Keynes Breakers, also emerged triumphant in the semi-finals, setting the stage for an enthralling match-up. Milton Keynes achieved a resounding 110-66 victory over St Helens Saints, while Solent secured their place in the finals with a commanding 110-51 win over Bristol Hurricanes.
Additional teams that secured their positions in the finals include Sheffield Hatters II, Cobham Cobras, Essex Rebels II, and Barnet Bulldogs. The upcoming finals promise to be an exhilarating showcase of talent and competitiveness, as these teams have demonstrated exceptional skills and unwavering determination throughout the playoffs.
As the countdown to the NBL Senior Playoff Finals commences, fans can look forward to witnessing an exceptional display of basketball talent, as the finalists meticulously prepare to partake in this highly anticipated event.