Few people can claim to have had the resumes in topflight British basketball that Ant Rowe, Drew Lasker and Mike Tuck have amassed, which is why they were the perfect trio to sit down with and preview the inaugural Super League Basketball season.
Ant, Drew and Mike gave their thoughts on a bunch of topics, which we’re excited to share with you ahead of the season start on Friday night, and after discussing their thoughts on who will win the Championship, now they go for their end-of-season award selections.
Read on to find out more about their choices.
Ant Rowe:
Most Valuable Player – Patrick Whelan, Caledonia Gladiators
If my predictions are correct, then Patrick Whelan will be the best player on the best team. Patrick has cemented himself as one of the best British players in the game after winning several individual honours over recent years for his performances with the Caledonia Gladiators and Leicester Riders. He scores the ball in such a smooth and controlled way that defenders really struggle to mitigate his production. His super-power is his ability and willingness to take and make big plays down the stretch to win.
Most Improved Player of the Year – Prentiss Nixon, B. Braun Sheffield Sharks
When you think of MIP you think of players that transform their identity and I think Nixon can go from a good player averaging 10 points per game (ppg) to a superstar averaging 20 ppg. He joined the Sharks later in the season last year and he had an excellent finish to the campaign, showing that the Ohio State alum has superstar potential, and I think he’ll step up to be ‘the man’ on this year’s Sharks squad.
Defensive Player of the Year – Jamell Anderson, B. Braun Sheffield Sharks
Jamell Anderson is the ultimate defender, and one of the few players at this level that’s able to impact the game on the defensive end with both his athleticism and his mind. He’s an intelligent defender that welcomes the opportunity to guard one through to five. Recognised several times in the past with accolades for his defensive prowess, expect the veteran Brit to flourish on a defensive orientated team like the Sharks.
Coach of the Year – Gareth Murray, Caledonia Gladiators
He’s a coach with silverware and has shown on several occasions in the past that when the chips are down and his team needs him to come up with some magic from the sidelines, Gareth Murray delivers… and then some. He was always so intelligent as a player and this is translating well into the world of coaching. With the continued support of the organisation, Murray will have an opportunity to do something special this season and if he gets it right, then Caledonia will be the best team in the SLB for this historic inaugural campaign.
Drew Lasker:
Most Valuable Player – Keddy Johnson, Bristol Flyers
I’ve predicted the last two MVP’s in the topflight of British basketball, so listen closely! This award is up for grabs as it’s the most wide open it has been in years! I predict that the award won’t come from the Championship winners this time around but it will feature the best player. I think Keddy will take full advantage of the parity around the league. He has the pace and skillset to attack the rim as well as anybody and if he’s worked on improving that efficiency from beyond the perimeter it’s game over for defenders trying to slow him down. He’s also a smart defender as well, which sometimes goes unnoticed, so he can do it on both ends and now has been giving the keys to the Flyers so get ready for the show!
Most Improved Player – Kareem Queeley, London Lions
Success as a professional hooper is all about opportunity. There is a youth movement in London and Kareem is next in line to grab the headlines. Since arriving in the top flight of British basketball, between injury and waiting for his opportunity, we’ve seen flashes of this Brit’s brilliance but this year could be the breakout campaign as he is flanked by two of the best playmakers in the SLB in Rai and Taylor. He’s had front-row seats to witness some of the best talent British basketball has ever seen in recent years and now that he’s two years removed from a devastating ACL injury, this could be the year we see Queeley flourish and reach the next level.
Defensive Player of the Year – Princeton Onwas, Caledonia Gladiators
Princeton returns to the SLB as what I consider to be the League’s best on-ball defender. He won’t blow you away with steals or block so you need to watch the game to appreciate his greatness on the defensive end because everything he does contributes to getting stops for the team. He is also a new father which, speaking from experience, adds to the motivation and takes your purpose to a whole new level!
Coach of the Year – Atiba Lyons, B. Braun Sheffield Sharks
At long last, this season Atiba will win the first Coach of the Year title of his incredible career. The League has seen a huge turnover of players and many teams will take time to find their identify. There is no question what the modus operandi of the Sharks will be: their defence is a staple in the Steel City but they’ve added in a boost of talent on the offensive end that could be a difference-maker. Add in the motivation of wanting to impress the new regime and the Sharks will finally get over the hump for their head coach!
Mike Tuck:
Most Valuable Player – Aaryn Rai, London Lions
Aaryn Rai, a Dartmouth College standout, delivered an impressive first season with the Cheshire Phoenix in the topflight of British Basketball, averaging 18.8 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. His contributions helped lead the team to a memorable campaign that included silverware, before Rai’s momentum continued over the summer, on his way to securing a Canadian Elite Basketball League Championship with the Niagara River Lions. Success has been following this guy wherever he goes. His commitment to personal development and consistent performance makes him a strong contender for the League MVP this season.
Most Improved Player – Kareem Queeley, London Lions
London Lions guard Kareem Queeley, standing at 6’5″, is poised for a breakout season in the capital. While he was a productive contributor last season, his minutes were often limited due to the team’s depth. With the Lions entering a new era, Queeley will see increased opportunities and greater responsibility on the court. His potential for growth this season makes him a strong candidate for this title.
Defensive Player of the Year – Jamell Anderson, B. Braun Sheffield Sharks
Jamell Anderson is a top contender for the SLB Defensive Player of the Year award due to his versatility, experience, and IQ on the defensive end. Jamell can guard multiple positions, using his speed and strength to disrupt both perimeter and post players. Quick hands and anticipation in the lane, combined with his length allows him contest shots and cause disruptions. The Sharks, a team that always takes pride on that end of the floor, will look to him to help anchor their defence intensity and discipline.
Coach of the Year – Atiba Lyons, B. Braun Sheffield Sharks
Atiba Lyons, long-time head coach of the Sharks, is a strong contender for the SLB Coach of the Year award. After significant investment into the team over the summer, Lyons has skilfully navigated a partial rebuild while retaining key players. As the Sharks transition into a new era at their state-of-the-art venue, the Canon Medical Arena, Lyons squad will be aiming for success and silverware this season. His leadership and ability to balance new talent with an established core make him a standout candidate for this prestigious award.