British Basketball League – Nicol and City of Edinburgh Kings looking forward to BBL Trophy test on Tyneside

City of Edinburgh Kings’ head coach Craig Nicol is excited at being given an unexpected opportunity to test his team’s skills in the BBL Trophy this season.

Having been given a chance to replace fellow Scottish side St Mirren who have had to withdraw from the competition, the Kings are now ready to show what they can do against the might of Esh Group Eagles Newcastle.

“We were delighted to get the invite to take part in this year’s BBL Trophy,” confirmed Nicol.

“In our previous outings at this level we have been drawn against Glasgow Rocks and have given them a tough match, so we are looking forward to testing ourselves against one of the very top teams in England. 

“We play Newcastle’s youth teams in pre-season friendlies each year, so the organisation is well known to us. 

“Our players all joined the club as youth players and worked their way up to the Senior team, so it will be a great opportunity for them to compete at this level. 

“We are looking forward to a great day out in Newcastle,” added the play-caller.

The game will take place on Saturday 22nd December with a 7pm tip-off and Eagles MD, Paul Blake is looking forward to welcoming the Kings to Tyneside.

He commented, “We are delighted to be able to face City of Edinburgh Kings in the BBL Trophy and it certainly brings together two cities and clubs with a longstanding basketball history.

“Fab and the guys will hopefully be able to send our fans away happy with a pre-Christmas present of a strong performance and progress into the next phase of the competition.”