Perfect Solent Kestrels retain NBL Division 1 league title

Image credit: Basketball England

Solent Kestrels were crowned NBL Division 1 champions for the second year running on Sunday after improving to 22-0.

Matt Guymon’s side finished 22-4 at the top last season, claiming the title on their head-to-head record over Worthing Thunder, but have been flawless in the 2019-20 campaign.

“Our guys have been incredible this season,” said Guymon. “The hard work they put in on and off the court has made them a very enjoyable team to coach, and this silverware is testament to the consistency they’ve shown throughout year.

“To retain the league title means so much to our organisation and fans. We now need to keep riding this momentum and continue to develop as a team so that we can be at our best for the BBL Trophy and NBL playoffs.”

They picked up their 21st league win at home on Saturday after finishing strong to see off Loughborough Riders 93-86 before sealing top spot with an 89-106 success away at Hemel Storm.

Ian Smith had 27 points, seven rebounds and eight assists in the home victory before firing in 33 points less than 24 hours later, while Travis Charles scored a combined 45 points on the weekend.

The Kestrels add another league triumph to their National Cup victory to complete a season double, whilst also reaching the BBL Trophy final with a second leg defeat against Bristol Flyers their only loss of the season, so far.

Solent are aiming for a perfect league campaign with four games still to play including a road trip to third-placed Derby Trailblazers and hosting second-placed Thames Valley Cavaliers.

Reading Rockets were the last team to go unbeaten in the league when they went 18-0 in 2008-09 as part of their quadruple-winning season.

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