David Sloan wins BBL Trophy title at the buzzer for Caledonia Gladiators

Image credit: BBL

Caledonia Gladiators won the 2023 BBL Trophy title in dramatic fashion as they defeated Cheshire Phoenix 73-70 at the buzzer.

David Sloan came up clutch with the game-winning corner three to spark jubilant scenes for the Gladiators on home soil at the Emirates Arena, ending a two decade long championship drought.

“I missed a couple of shots that I usually make but I’m a confidence player and as soon as that ball left my hands, I knew it was going in,” Sloan said.

“For us as a franchise though, this is amazing, to overcome the adversity and lift a championship in front of our home fans is an unbelievable feeling.”

The MVP award went to Jeremiah Bailey after his contribution of 16 points, eight rebounds and four assists in the thrilling victory.

For head coach Gareth Murray, a native of Arbroath, he has seen his share of anguish over the years as a player. But now, in front of his friends and family, he can celebrate a deserved Trophy success.

“What more can you say, to win a game like that, on the buzzer, in Glasgow, it’s picture perfect,” Murray said.

“It’s wonderful for fans that have been with us from the start, the players that have grown up through the system and are playing today, staff members that have been loyal to us, it’s incredible and again, to win it in Glasgow, in Scotland. It’s special.”

Cheshire were led by 12 points apiece from Larry Austin, Marcus Evans and Tahjai Teague.

Box score.

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