Essex Rebels ready to rock with blockbuster doubleheader

An electric atmosphere will ignite Colchester as the Essex Rebels host their first action-packed doubleheader of the season.

Top-flight professional basketball, a family-friendly fanzone and a live DJ will take over the University of Essex on Saturday 10 October.

Fans can also win top prizes with Culver Square offering a £50 to use in any store and Colchester Zoological Society offering up tickets too.

The Rebels women take to the court for the first time this season, with a new-look team featuring returning fan favourites and exciting new signings.

Captain Claire Paxton leads new coach Tor Freeman’s side fresh from competing in the Commonwealth Games, with former Rebels Liv Partridge and Megan Haines returning home to the Essex Sport Arena.

German US college ace Lara Rohkohl joins the side alongside Irish international Lucy Coogan as the Rebels look to build on last season’s highest-ever league finish.

The men’s side are also back in action for their second British Championship Basketball clash of the season, giving supporters their first chance to see the team’s new additions in league action.

Among the new signings is high-scoring American Tre Baumgardner III, who has already made an explosive start to life with the Rebels.

Voted Player of the Week, Tre produced an incredible 31 points, eight rebounds, six assists and five steals in a single game.

'We want you to be a part of it'

Diana Voynova, Essex Rebels manager, said: “Saturday is going to be huge. We’ve got two brilliant games, new players to see in action, returning Rebels favourites and a packed fanzone, so we want the Essex Sport Arena to be absolutely rocking.

“This is what Rebels basketball is all about. We want big crowds, plenty of noise and an atmosphere that gets people out of their seats.

“Whether you’re a lifelong basketball fan or coming to your first game, we want you to be part of it.”

The action begins at 4pm as the Essex Rebels Women take on the Leicester Riders in Super League Basketball, before the Essex Rebels Men face the Loughborough Riders at 6.30pm.

But the entertainment starts well before tip-off.

Outdoor fanzone

From 2pm, supporters can enjoy an outdoor fanzone bringing together activities, food and entertainment for families, students and sports fans.

Visitors can test their skills at interactive activity stations including basketball competitions, cornhole, bucket pong and the popular 'Splash the Person' challenge.

Younger fans can get involved with face painting and poster-making, while supporters can capture the day at a specially designed photo backdrop.

Adding to the atmosphere will be a live DJ, food and appearances from the Rebels’ much-loved mascot, Queen B, with the fanzone running ahead of the opening game.

The doubleheader will be the first chance this season for supporters to see both Rebels teams in action on the same day at the Essex Sport Arena.

Tickets for Saturday 10 October are available now at essexrebels.co.uk