ESSEX Rebels' basketball academy has received national recognition after claiming a hat-trick of awards.

The University of Essex-based set-up received three awards from the high-profile basketball league for the country's best under-19s.

Essex’s Head Coach Tom Sadler was named Eastern Conference Coach of the Year for 2019/20.

The accolade is handed out to those who have managed to get the best out of their programme this season, as well as an award that voted for by the other coaches in the league.

Sadler is regarded as worthy winner by his peers, having guided the Essex Rebels to a 12-4 record in the Eastern Conference, eventually claiming the #8 seed for the post season.

The Rebels suffered a Sweet Sixteen stage defeat by Stoke, going down 87-54, but solid seasons for a number of Sadler’s players suggest a good campaign all round.

Sadler said: “I feel very honoured to be receiving this award and for being recognised and voted for by the other coaches in this league, and there are some great coaches in this league who are deserving of this award.

“I’m proud and fortunate that I get to work with such a great group of players that allow themselves to be coached, we really pushed ourselves this year to be better each day and the players really bought in to what we are doing here at Essex.”

The All-conference teams were also announced, with home-grown players Josh Green and Riley Taylor receiving recognition.

The duo have both come through the Rebels' junior club programme pathway and into the academy.

Sadler added: "I couldn't be happier for Josh Green and Riley Taylor who have been with the academy since the start.

"They fully bought in and have committed themselves to getting better each day, and I might add not just on the basketball court, but also in the classroom.

"This is a testament to the work they have put in and are fully deserving of this award."

Green was named to the first team with a stat line of 20.6 point per game, 3.3 rebounds per game contributing to a 16.2 efficiency.

He is the first-ever member of the academy to get first-team honours.

Taylor had a solid season and was named to the second team with a stat line of 17.5 point per game, finished with a three-point per cent of 64.1 per cent, which contributed to a 18.3 efficiency.

The Academy is in its second year but is well on its way to establishing itself as one of the country's best for player development and education due to the opportunities, coaching and teaching that it provides throughout the schools within the Sigma trust.

For more information on the academy follow on Twitter @RBA_VI6 or contact jtaylor@colne.essex.sch.uk