🏀 Match Report: U16 Nottingham Hoods vs. Leicester Warriors Date: Saturday, 19th September Tip-off: 3:00 PM (Home)

The new season got underway this weekend as our U16 Nottingham Hoods hosted Leicester Warriors at MSV.
 
1st Quarter: Fast Pace & Early Fire
The Warriors opened the scoring, but the Hoods answered immediately with a deep three-pointer to get the home bench on their feet. Early-season nerves showed in transition with a few loose turnovers, but our defence held firm with strong rebounding. Foul trouble tested the starting five early, giving Warriors trips to the free throw line. However, the Hoods showed sharp composure: executing a crisp inside post move and knocking down two from the line to stem Warrior’s momentum. End of Q1: Hoods 13 – 23 Warriors
 
2nd Quarter: Pushing the Tempo in Transition
Warriors tightened their interior defence in the second quarter, making it difficult to penetrate the lane. A Hoods player was injured on a 3pt foul and couldn’t capitalise from the line. As the quarter wore on, quick outlet passes from Hoods sparked fast-break opportunities.  Highlighted by a strong finish through contact for an and-one. Despite a tough shooting stretch before the halftime buzzer, the boys continued to battle on both ends. Halftime: Hoods 18 – 43 Warriors
 
3rd Quarter: Hard-Fought Battles
The Hoods came out looking to attack the basket directly, drawing fouls in the paint. Although shots from the perimeter weren't falling, the team stayed aggressive. A highlight sequence saw a slick pump fake freeze the defence for an easy bucket. This followed by defensive pressure that generated another converted and-one play. Hoods 29 – 56 Warriors
 
4th Quarter: Relentless Effort to the Final Buzzer
As the game opened up, the boys refused to let up. The Hoods dialled up defensive intensity with several clean blocks. Through offensive persistence, they drew fouls and converted a well taken and-one from the free-throw line. Hoods continued to fight for every possession until the final whistle. Final Score: Hoods 39 – 77 Warriors
 
As a new group playing their first game together, this was a really encouraging performance. The boys showed great teamwork, worked hard on defence, and created some great passing moves. With more training sessions together, the team chemistry and sharpness will continue to grow! A huge thank you to all the parents, family, and supporters for cheering the boys on from the sidelines! 👏