West Brom Basketball Club‘s preparations for the 2019/20 campaign got off to a glittering start, as they claimed silverware in the Clive Hurst Summer League.
The Black Country side completed their undefeated charge through the round robin tournament against familiar foes and 2018 Summer League champions Lordswood, claiming the men’s teams’ first trophy since their conception.
West Brom went into their final game of the tournament against fellow undefeated side Lordswood knowing whoever won the tie would lift the trophy.
Setting the tone with a stingy defensive press, Tim Rudge’s side edged out into a fragile four point lead by the end of the first quarter, one which they only increased by a single point by the halfway point in the game.
A stunning third quarter display opened up the deficit between the two Premier League sides, as West Brom stepped up offensively – knocking down 24 points in the period compared to just 10 from their opponents.
That surge gave Rudge’s side a sizeable 19-point advantage heading into the final quarter, which ultimately proved too much for Lordswood to claw back.
Despite a late flourish from their opponents, West Brom rode out the final minutes to claim the 61-52 victory, ensuring that the trophy would head to the Black Country.
Elsewhere, West Brom’s B team fell to defeat in their final outing at the tournament, losing 79-84 to Yardley Defenders.
The second side started strongly, but ultimately saw their defeat secured after a strong third quarter showing from the Birmingham-based side.
Despite a late surge, with their opponents reduced to just four late in the game due to foul trouble, West Brom couldn’t overcome the gap to secure what would have been the side’s first win of the competition.
Both sides now face a lengthy break from competitive action, with the next season set to start in September.
West Brom A will continue in the West Midlands Premier Division, whilst the second side will once again compete in Division Two, with both teams now set to continue their pre-season preparations.
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