Over the weekend of 14th/15th May, the first National Championship Finals since 2019 took place at UEL SportsDock which marked the end of a season to remember for many clubs.
Division 3
After strong performances from Mohawks 3 and Sheffield Steelers 3 in the semi-finals, both teams were raring to go in the Division 3 final, much to the enjoyment of the spectators at the venue and those watching at home on the livestream. Mohawks 3 came away with the win 50:44, holding off against Sheffield Steelers 3’s dynamic plays.
In the Division 3 3rd/4th place playoff, Thames Valley Kings 3 had a 51:39 victory over Brixton Ballers 1.
Division 2
Wakefield Whirlwinds 2 appeared unstoppable in the Division 2 final stages, winning the final with a 44-point lead over Sussex Bears 1 and taking the title with a 68:24 victory. Wakefield Whirlwinds 2 had 100% (5/5) on free throws, showcasing their shooting talent throughout the match.
In the Division 2 3rd/4th place playoff, Plymouth Fusion 2 won 57:48 against Lothian Phoenix 1.
Division 1
The Division 1 final was one of several highlights of the weekend, with the top two teams evenly matched in a high-scoring, high adrenaline game. The Bears 2 and Mohawks 2 were 36:34 at half time and the crowd was gathering with anticipation to see which side would carry the momentum through to the end. After a stunning performance from both teams, The Bears won 64:63 and were crowned Division 1 champions.
In the Division 1 3rd/4th place playoff, Sheffield Steelers 2 had a 17-point win over London Titan’s 2, building their lead after a strong first quarter from the Titans side.
Junior League
Following the highly competitive Elite 8’s competition in April, Wakefield Whirlwinds and Thames Valley Kings were confirmed as our Junior League finalists. The final took place on the Saturday evening of the competition weekend. There was tension in the air and a buzz in the growing crowd as both teams headed out onto the court.
Wakefield Whirlwinds ended Thames Valley King’s Junior League perfect win streak with a dominant performance, claiming the title with a 61:27 victory.
Women’s Premier League
History was made at the National Championship Finals 2022 as the first ever Women’s Premier League final took place following the inaugural season. East London Phoenix and Loughborough Lightning met in an explosive final, showcasing the brand-new league in fierce competition with players across the court showing great skill. With both teams pushing each other throughout the match, Lightning pulled ahead in the final quarter to take the win 64:73 and earn the first ever title – unbeaten in the 2022 league.
In the Women’s Premier League 3rd/4th place playoff, Worcester Wolves delivered a solid team performance after a tough first half to take third place, winning 32:44 over Cardiff Met Archers.
Premier Division
The long-awaited Premier Division final had an electric atmosphere as London Titans 1 took on CWBA 1. Into the first quarter, CWBA were fast off the mark following tip-off. Titans soon picked up the momentum and built to a 20-point lead. CWBA worked hard to close the gap but could not ultimately overcome the strong Titans side who won 77:62. One of several highlight moments of the game was Jack Perry of London Titans achieving a triple double.
In the Premier Division 3rd/4th place playoff, Mohawks 1 were defeated 54:81 by Sheffield Steelers 1 whose accuracy on shooting was a key aspect of their victory.
Thank you to all teams, officials, volunteers, and spectators who took part in the National Championship Finals 2022.
