Caledonia Gladiators are set to face Cheshire Phoenix this weekend in a second vs third game in the British Basketball League.
The sides have battled it out three times in league action so far this season, with Phoenix winning 2/3 of the games, and Gladiators look to even the series, and could even take advantage in the season’s Head-to-Head with a win greater than seven points.
Cheshire have proven to be one of the best teams in the league, competing with the Lions in the league table, and overturning the capital city side in the Trophy Final, which they won 82-98 – picking up the first trophy of the British Basketball League season.
For the side from the North West, their top five scorers have averaged over 10 points a game in the Championship. However, Ivy League alumni and ex-NBL Division 1 star, Aaryn Rai has stood out. He puts up 18.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game – proving to be a problem to guard for defenders across the game.
Since last year’s Trophy Final, in which Caledonia picked up the 70-73 win over Cheshire with a last-second buzzer beater from David Sloan, the rivalry between the two sides has been fuelled – growing every game since.
The games this year have proved to be fun and close, which will be sure to continue on Sunday at 4:30 PM as Ben Thomas’ side visit PlaySport for the third time (including Trophy). Secure your tickets HERE for the crucial matchup as Gladiators hope to go ahead of the Phoenix on the season.
