The new-look Caledonia Gladiators opened their 2026/27 Super League Basketball campaign in style, defeating Liverpool Basketball 78 – 73 in a hard-fought season opener at Playsport Arena.

In a historic afternoon for both sides, the Gladiators welcomed Liverpool Basketball to the Super League Basketball for their first-ever game in the competition, with a sell-out crowd at Playsport Arena creating an electric atmosphere for the opening game of the new campaign.

The visitors started brightly, edging the opening quarter 22 – 18, but the Gladiators quickly settled into their rhythm and responded with an 18 – 19 second quarter to head into the interval trailing by five at 41 – 36.

The third quarter saw the two sides trade baskets, with Liverpool maintaining their advantage heading into the final ten minutes. With everything still to play for, the Gladiators turned up the intensity when it mattered most.

Caledonia produced their strongest quarter of the afternoon in the fourth, outscoring Liverpool 24 – 17 to complete the comeback and secure a 78 – 73 victory.

Leading the charge was Al-Amir Dawes, who was named the Gladiators’ MVP following an energetic performance. Dawes finished with 23 points, shooting 8-of-19 from the field and 4-of-10 from three.

His energy helped drive the Gladiators throughout the contest, particularly as they battled their way back into the game during the second half.

Terry Roberts also played a key role in the victory, contributing 16 points, 4 assists and 3 blocks. With the game finely poised in the closing stages, Roberts stepped up with a clutch three-pointer to help give the Gladiators the momentum they needed to close out the historic season opener.

There were also strong contributions across the new-look Gladiators roster. Matt Zona recorded a double-double with 10 points, 10 rebounds and two blocks, while Kyle Jimenez provided six assists alongside seven rebounds. Jay Nagle added 7 points and five rebounds, with the Gladiators’ bench contributing 19 points.

The numbers reflected a competitive battle, with Caledonia shooting 31% from the three and connecting on 12 three-pointers, while their defensive pressure produced 11 steals and 7 blocks.

After Liverpool held the advantage for much of the opening three quarters, the Gladiators’ fourth-quarter response proved decisive.

A new season. A new-look Gladiators. And a winning start to 2026/27.

Caledonia Gladiators 78–73 Liverpool Basketball
Q1: 18–22
Q2: 18–19
Q3: 18–15
Q4: 24–17

Top scorers: Al-Amir Dawes – 23, Terry Roberts – 16
MVP: Al-Amir Dawes

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