GB MAXIBASKETBALL MEN 50+ TRIUMPH IN A THRILLING ENCOUNTER WITH ITALIA GOLDEN PLAYERS GIOVE TO SECURE 5TH PLACE OVERALL
In a gripping clash at the Indoor Sports Hall “G. Galanopoulos’, our GB Maxis M50s emerged victorious over the Italia Golden Players Giove with a final score of 60-52. Showcasing 10 three-pointers, GB outshined the Italians and at one point in the game led by as many as 12 points. However our men displayed resilience, overcoming three tied scores and two lead changes to secure a hard fought win.
GAME DETAIL
The match tipped off, and the Italian team took an early lead highlighted by a remarkable 9-0 run, but centre Matt Williams countered for GB Maxis with 6 points, and the quarter ended 10-12 in favour of the Italians. As the second quarter unfolded, Golden Players hit 6 points but the combined efforts of Donald Sampley (Ayrshire) and Ewan Kassir (North Hertford) propelled GB Maxis into a 33-28 lead at the half. The third period saw a dramatic shift: our men unleased an 8-0 run to take control of the score 47-41. Donald Sampley continued to dominate, making steals, assists and lay ups past his defender.
Despite valiant efforts from the Italians in the fourth period, GB Maxis stayed on top of the game. It was a fantastic team effort and a well-deserved win to secure 5th place overall in the championship!
GB M50+ LEADING SCORERS
Donald Sampley – 26 points
Ewan Kassir – 11 points
Matthew Williams – 10 points
Damon Cooper – 9 points
AWARDS
Our end of tournament award was presented in the VIP Room of the venue, a fitting setting for the KEITH KELLY AWARD which is presented in honour of our former GB M50+ player who sadly passed away in 2024. Keith represented the spirit of our GB Maxis community, in terms of selflessness, excellence, teamwork, resilience, and care for others even in the face of his own illness. We miss him dearly. So, for a remarkable team contribution at this event, the Keith Kelly Award winner is GB Maxis power forward EWAN KASSIR. Congrats to a truly deserving recipient.
We are over and out from the FIBA Masters Open but keep your eyes peeled for news of next years event, and a round up of the GB Maxibasketball 2025/26 season.