Leeds Carnegie Crowned 2014 Play-Off Champions

In a back and forth game against league champions Reading Rockets, Leeds were able to secure the 71-65 win in front of a vocal crowd at the Amaechi Basketball Centre in Manchester.

The game was a close affair throughout as both teams came off strong semi-final performances.  Carnegie had the better of the opening quarter with some confident offense giving them an 18-14 lead at the end of the first period.

Reading bit back in the second quarter on the back of some decisive play from Australian point guard Josh Wilcher.  With a strong defensive effort they were able to limit Leeds to just 14 points whilst pouring on 23 of their own, opening them out a 5 point lead at the half time break.

The battle continued in the third quarter with Leeds able to fight their way back to a tied game by the end of the period.  This setup a nail biting final ten minutes as both teams looked to claim the season’s most prized piece of silverware.

Carnegie took the initiative early on both ends of the floor through some intelligent team play.  Reading looked to fight back but Leeds held onto their slender lead throughout and claimed the 71-65 win and the playoff crown.

Leeds scoring was led by MVP Jack Stannard with 27 points supported by an impressive 15 points and 8 blocks from Russell Permenter.  Josh Wilcher led Reading with 19 points and 5 rebounds.

This was the fairytale finish to the season that Carnegie were after as they bow out of Division One with a move up to the BBL next season.  After the celebrations die down Leeds will now set about preparing for their rookie season in the British Basketball League.

Story – Leeds Carnegie