The anticipation is mounting as the remaining teams are just one win away from securing a spot at Manchester’s National Basketball Performance Centre for the Senior Playoff Finals on 27 and 28 April 2024.
The post-season commenced with an unexpected upset as #7 Bradford Dragons eliminated #2 seeds Essex Rebels with a final score of 87-79. The Dragons broke the tie in the final frame to secure a stunning victory, with an exceptional performance from Justin Williams, who scored 29 points, and Zion Tordoff, who contributed a 20/12 double-double.
Hemel Storm also advanced in the playoffs with a 90-80 win over #6 Loughborough, thanks to Taylor Johnson’s 27 points and Sam Newman’s 18-point, 14-assists double-double. Additionally, Derby Trailblazers secured a dominant 108-67 victory over Nottingham Hoods, and Reading triumphed over Newcastle with an impressive 96-60 win.
Looking ahead, the semi-finals will feature Bradford facing Hemel, and Derby hosting Reading, with both games expected to be highly competitive and closely contested.
In the D1W playoffs, the top four seeds all progressed to the next round, setting the stage for thrilling match-ups. League leaders Endeavour Ipswich Basketball eased past #8 Bristol Academy Flyers with an 81-60 win, while Thames Valley, CoLA, and Brent Bulls also secured victories to advance to the next stage.
As for the D2M playoffs, the top seeds all advanced to the next round with impressive performances, setting the stage for exciting contests in the semi-finals.
In the Women’s playoffs, Loughborough emerged as the surprise package, securing an 81-79 victory over Cardiff City. Rugby, Liverpool, Barnet, and Essex all claimed victories to advance to the next round, setting up a compelling set of fixtures for the upcoming matches.
With all eyes now turning to the semi-finals, fans are eagerly anticipating the thrilling contests and the battle for a place in the highly anticipated Senior Playoff Finals. The upcoming weekend is set to be a showcase of skill, teamwork, and determination as the teams compete for their chance to participate in the prestigious championship event.