Strong Starts Define Opening Round of 2025/26 Senior League
The Isle of Man Basketball Senior League tipped off its 2025/26 season on Thursday 16 October with three exciting matchups at the National Sports Centre. The evening saw convincing wins for the Jets, Cavaliers, and Southern Phoenix, each setting an early marker for the campaign ahead.
Jets 77 – 38 Cannons Elite
The Jets opened their season in emphatic fashion, overpowering Cannons Elite with a dominant 77–38 performance. After a tight opening quarter (15–14), the Jets’ pace and transition play took control as they surged ahead 35–22 by half-time and 60–28 by the end of the third.
Thomas Crosbie led the way with 20 points, shooting a perfect 8-for-8 from inside the arc and adding a three-pointer plus three free throws. Peter Boussougou added 19 points, while Tom Dalton-Brown and Wayne Mears chipped in 13 each.
The Jets connected on 32 field goals (27 twos, 5 threes) and were 8-of-12 from the line. Cannons Elite battled hard but struggled offensively, with Oliver Hamilton and Rowan Coulter each scoring 11 points and Evan O’Dea and Jack Wilkinson contributing 8 apiece. Despite solid long-range shooting, Cannons’ consistency faltered under defensive pressure.
Cavaliers 57 – 43 Hoops
Cavaliers opened their campaign with a composed 57–43 victory over Hoops in a game that showcased their defensive discipline. A dominant 12–2 first quarter set the tone, but Hoops responded strongly before half-time to reduce the gap to 25–18. The game tightened in the third period before the Cavaliers closed with a 22–9 final quarter surge.
Andrew Cregeen led the scoring with 20 points (8 field goals, 4 free throws), supported by Michael Lewis (14 points) and David Boyle (10). Cavaliers were efficient in the paint, hitting 26 two-pointers and committing only seven team fouls.
Becky Dunne led Hoops with 9 points, while Zoe Kirkham (8) and Daniella Kravela (6) added support. Hoops’ slow start and 1-of-9 free-throw shooting hindered their comeback effort despite an improved middle stretch.
Southern Phoenix 55 – 44 Pirates
Southern Phoenix rounded out the night with a well-earned 55–44 win over the Pirates in a fast-paced contest. Pirates led 12–8 after the first quarter, but Phoenix battled back to edge 24–23 at the break and extended their advantage with an 18–10 final period.
Zak Hand starred with 16 points, including four three-pointers, while Matthew Jones (15) and Konrad Hand (9) added strong support. Phoenix shot 24 field goals and maintained composure, committing only seven fouls.
For Pirates, Neil Domingo led with 17 points, followed by Mike Brew (9) and Jamie Grose (6). Despite solid perimeter shooting, their 1-of-6 performance from the line proved costly as Phoenix pulled away late.
🏅 Top Performers of the Week
| Player | Team | Points | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thomas Crosbie | Jets | 20 | Perfect 8-for-8 from two-point range, added a three and 3 FTs |
| Zak Hand | Southern Phoenix | 16 | Four three-pointers in key moments |
| Andrew Cregeen | Cavaliers | 20 | Consistent scoring leader, 8 FGM and 4 FTs |
| Peter Boussougou | Jets | 19 | Dominant drives and inside presence |
| Neil Domingo | Pirates | 17 | Strong two-way performance despite loss |
Round One Summary:
The opening night showcased a blend of offensive firepower and disciplined defence across all three fixtures. Jets’ balanced attack, Cavaliers’ composure, and Phoenix’s resilience highlighted the depth and competitiveness of this year’s Senior League. With week one in the books, all signs point toward a thrilling 2025/26 season ahead.
