University of Huddersfield basketball team seals promotion
The University of Huddersfield Basketball team has earned a well-deserved promotion to the third tier of university basketball after a thrilling 75-60 victory over Sunderland University.
This significant achievement marks a milestone in the team’s first year as part of an exciting new performance sport programme, in collaboration with the National Basketball League (NBL) side West Yorkshire Hawks, based at the University.
The basketball programme has seen a transformative year with West Yorkshire Hawks coach, Adrian Willey, taking the helm of the team. Supported by a multi-disciplinary team including strength and conditioning coaches, physiotherapists, sports psychologists and nutritionists, the team’s dedication and commitment have been central to their success.
The team, pictured above: Yubo Ge; Bofan Mu; Alexandre Jefferson; Obed Muanza; Faaris Aftab; Tyler Morris; Joshua Forde; Eitvydas Kurtkus; Ropa Bindura; Julius Mupenzi
Ben Severn, Performance Manager, said, “We have made significant investments into the basketball programme this year, bringing in top-tier professionals to ensure our athletes get the best possible support. These students are at the start of their dual career journey, and they deserve the highest standard of resources. Their dedication and sacrifice have been exceptional, and this promotion is a testament to their hard work. They’ve laid the groundwork for future generations to balance high-level basketball and academic studies here at Huddersfield.”
The team finished the season with an impressive 9-1 record, with their sole loss coming at the hands of a strong Northumbria University side.
The must-win game against Sunderland was a test of their resolve, and the team displayed composure and professionalism to clinch victory. Their performance throughout the season, culminating in this promotion, has caught the attention of semi-professional NBL teams, leading to players Alexandre Jefferson and Josh Forde being recruited to play at the national level.
Coach Adrian Willey praised his team’s relentless effort, saying, “The lads have worked tirelessly all season, from their very first training session to the final game. Their commitment and continuous improvement in every match and training session have been remarkable. It’s been an absolute pleasure to work with them, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together.”
Looking ahead, the team now faces one final challenge: securing the Varsity crown for a record third consecutive year against the University of Bradford.
The highly anticipated game will take place on Wednesday, April 2, 20:00 at the University of Huddersfield and the team is ready to continue their successful run.
If you are interested in our scholarship programme or joining the team next year then please email b.severn@hud.ac.uk and visit the website.