Back in September 24, Preston Basketball Girls Team were set to embark on their first season in the Basketball England Girls 13-18 Regional League. With new captains, Lucie and Alessia leading the team, the girls were eager to prove themselves. The league consisted of five teams, all of whom would play against each other three times throughout the season.

The team began the season on a strong note, securing a win against FBA. However, they faced a significant setback, suffering a heavy loss to the formidable and talented Wirral Bears. By the end of the first round of games, Preston's record stood at 2-2, and the start season hadn't gone according to plan.

The second round began in early January. With more experience under their belts, the girls had a better understanding of what they were up against. They knew that the Bears, undefeated at that point, were now the favourites to win the league. Spinners and FBA were also strong teams, capable of causing upsets, while Bromborough had players who were improving with each game and could challenge any team on their day.

A huge turning point came during the team's second matchup against the Bears. The girls knew that a victory would elevate them to second place and put pressure on the still-undefeated league leaders. It was a hard-fought game, but Preston's defensive pressure shone through, forcing Wirral into their first defeat of the season, with a final score of 61-41.
By the end of the second round, Preston’s record had improved to 6-2. The league standings were starting to take shape, and it appeared to be a two-horse race between Preston and the Bears, with FBA lurking, ready to capitalise if either of the top teams slipped up.

Both Preston and the Bears continued their winning streaks, and with only three games remaining, they met for their third and final matchup. A win for Preston would tie the teams on points, but Preston would take the top spot due to their head-to-head record. However, a defeat would hand the Bears the league title. This was set to be a huge game! The Bears started off quickly, making their home advantage count by going 20 points up at the start of the second quarter. Preston knew they had to adjust defensively, and their gamble to apply pressing defense paid off. The girls clawed their way back into the game, and by halftime, everything was all square at 26-26. Preston continued to play with high-intensity defense and slick offense. In a remarkable turn of events, Preston did what no other team had done all season—they defeated Wirral at their own venue, with a final score of 60-42.

The final two games came thick and fast, and with confidence at an all-time high, the girls won both matches. The league title was now theirs! Every single player on their 15-player roster had a crucial role to play in securing the title, and each one should be incredibly proud of this brilliant achievement. Nothing of this magnitude happens without hard work, and these girls have shown relentless dedication and motivation to improve every time they stepped on the court. A huge congratulations to all of you! The coaches and the club are incredibly proud of you!

What we have been most proud of is the way the girls have come together as a team and developed both as basketballers and young ladies. We have seen significant growth in the team from less than 10 players to almost 20 training regularly. The girls all come with different gifts to enhance what Preston Basketball is all about. This was encapsulated beautifully at the March Tournament where we fielded 2 teams to include all our players; young and old, beginner and experienced. Preston Celtics and Preston Lakers performed superbly coming 1st and 2nd in the competition - facing each other off in the final. Of course there could be only be one winner - Preston Girls Basketball.