Recap
14U Boys Division 1 2022-23
SOUTHWARK LEGENDS BLACK
BRENT PANTHERS
In a highly-anticipated showdown that brought the CBL 14U division to a climactic close, the Southwark Legends once again proved to be the Kings of the Division, beating away the challenge from the Brent Panthers with a resounding 42-30 victory. The Legends, having already secured the number 1 spot in the regular season, finishing with a perfect ‘undefeated’ record, demonstrated their dominance once again, leaving no doubt about their reign on top of London’s biggest 14U grassroots basketball competition.
The narrative of this championship clash carried echoes of the regular season, as the Panthers had finished second to the Legends and dropped their sole game to the South London juggernauts. While the Panthers entered the arena with a measure of confidence, their hopes of reversing the season’s tide were thwarted by early foul trouble that befell their starting guard, Munyaradzi Nyamutenha. This unforeseen challenge tore into the Panthers’ game plan, even as Toby Lee, Nyamutenha’s backcourt partner, continued to shine.
The Legends’ rise to the top was fuelled by the electrifying performance of Haydin Edwards-Meade. This young stunner is undoubtedly one to watch. His exceptional athleticism could not be contained, often overwhelming the Panthers’ defence, which tried multiple defenders to try to slow his flow – but to no avail.
The Legends’ offense, bolstered by the contributions of Rayshane Padmore and the exuberantly gifted Stephan Anderson, proved a well-oiled machine that remained tantalisingly out of reach for any potential late-game Panthers resurgence.
For his exceptional contributions, Edwards-Meade rightfully earned the title of game MVP. His 12-point haul, coupled with 4 assists and 3 steals, underscored his impact not only in this pivotal clash but across the division throughout the season. Edwards-Meade’s consistent excellence on the hardwood solidified his position as the standout player in the division filled with futures stars the London basketball landscape will undoubtedly be watching in the years ahead.
As the final buzzer sounded, the Legends jubilantly celebrated another CBL title, further cementing their legacy of supremacy within London’s premier grassroots basketball league. The Legends’ victory was a culmination of their indomitable spirit, teamwork, and a performance that transcended the confines of this game alone and forever embedded the South Londoner’s signature of success on a season of proven dominance.
