Basketball: Southwark club are victorious twice at Sure Shot National Cup Finals
CoLa made it three U18 women’s cups in the last four years, and back-to-back titles, as they beat long-standing rivals Endeavour Ipswich Basketball 65-46.
The win places Pride as the most decorated side in the history of the competition with five wins, though they had to weather a stern Ipswich fightback to make it a reality.
The MVP crown went to CoLA forward Chloe Vella, who put together a mighty 15-point, 21-rebound double-double, alongside a strong showing from fellow forward Adaora Dioramma (12 points, seven rebounds) and guard Monife Abidekun (13 points).
CoLA sprung a surprise on Charnwood College Riders, trailing by as many as 11 points before roaring back to win the U18 Men’s National Cup 67-62.
The Midlanders looked to be in control of proceedings, keeping their South London opponents at bay for most of the contest, but the floodgates were opened late thanks to some key baskets from MVP Khyle Capanzana (18 pts, four rebounds, two assists). Other notable contributions came from Isaac Fiagbe (15 points, six rebounds, six assists) and Daniel Banjoko (15 points, seven rebounds).
PICTURES: BRITISH BASKETBALL
Main Pic: MVP Chloe Vella with Basketball England CEO Stewart Kellett (right) and Basketball England Board Member Chris Walsh