Essex Rebels one game from O2 Arena final

The record-breaking Essex Rebels have powered through to their first semi-final and are now gunning for a crunch final at the O2 Arena.

The women’s team dispatched London Lions in the University of Essex’s first ever home quarter final.

Saturday’s dominant performance saw the Rebels come out 93-72 victors in front of a bouncing Essex Sport Arena.

After steaming ahead, the Rebels put on a display for the last home game of the season with stars Maria Blazejewski and Quinesha Lockett making the league’s All Star Five – after sinking a combined 38 points.

The Black Out-themed game marked the last time fans could cheer on the Rebels this year at home and builds on a barnstorming 2025/26, which also saw them reach the Betty Codona Trophy semis and the SLB Cup quarter finals.

Now the county’s only professional side head up to rivals Caledonia Gladiators, in Glasgow, with a spot in the London final on the line.

Coach Ash Cookson praised the team ahead of Sunday’s Scottish semi.

He said: "I’m very proud of our group to make to this stage of the competition, new territory for the club!

"We’re excited for another week of refining our process and giving the semi-final all we’ve got.

"We have had some epic battles all season with this Caledonia team and look forward to the challenge they present.

"We’re playing with a collective mentality and a relentlessness which has served us well over the past month.

"The message has been simple this week. Play with no regrets.”

Dave Parry, Director of Sport, saluted Essex’s support.

He said: "This season has been amazing, and I just want to thank all the players, staff and supporters who have made it so special.

"Every season the team goes from strength-to-strength and I’m so proud of everyone for helping make this team what it is.

"Whether it’s a young fan watching for the first time, backroom staff making the games happen, or a student athlete on the court you are all vital parts of the Rebels. Thank you."

The game tips-off at 4pm, will be streamed live on YouTube, and can be watched on the Super League Basketball channel.