Tigers came into the game looking to win the title for the second year running whilst Bucs last final appearance was in 2019. This year’s highly anticipated final did not disappoint with an incredible game unfolding in front of a great crowd who turned out in large numbers to support the teams.

Huish opened the scoring with a long-range 3-pointer from Ben Fabres but good team defence and rebounding from Bucs limited Tigers to single opportunities that they couldn’t convert early on. Bucs executed well at the offensive end and made a run taking a 13 – 3 lead. Tigers responded well with fast-breaks and shot making from Fabres and Harry Jackson, reducing the lead to 6 at the end of the first.

In the second quarter the teams were neck and neck, each scoring 17 and showing good defensive discipline. Tigers were able to keep fresh legs on the court with frequent substitutions whilst Bucs relied on experience with Thiago Botelho scoring 7 points in the quarter whilst Kuznecovs, Yabsley, Anderson and Ulinas combined for 8.

Meanwhile Tigers were starting to find their rhythm on offence. Alfie King displayed good shooting form with 2-point and 3-point fieldgoals early on, scoring 5 of his 9 game points in the period. Captain Sean Raithby added 4 for Tigers around the hoop whilst Jackson and Harry Quirk knocked down two more from 3-point distance. They were unable to reduce the lead though and Bucs carried a 6 point advantage into the half, scores 39 – 33.

The third period was incredibly tight with both teams playing tough physical defense. Raithby, King, Jackson and Quirk picked up where they left off in the second for Tigers combining for 13 points. Huish closed the gap, coming to within just 1 point of Bridgwater.

However, a blocked 3-pointer leading to a converted fast-break layup and foul for Yabsley followed by a made 3-pointer the following trip down, helped steady the ship for Bucs. But Tigers closed the quarter strong with a made basket from Matt Nolan, and Raithby once again putting in work around the basket and at the free-throw line. Scores at the end of the third, Bucs 51 Tigers 48.

The final quarter had the crowd on edge of their seats with Tigers relentlessly pursuing the lead. Alex Ross found his touch for Huish, scoring 11 points straight to start the quarter. Back-to-back made 3 pointers from Ross and Fabres brought Tigers tantalizingly close but Rich Nurse answered the call for Bucs, hitting 2 in a row from 3-point distance following patient ball movement from the Bridgwater offence.

The momentum swung back to Tigers though and with less than 2 minutes remaining they were poised to take the lead with the scores 69 – 68 to Bucs. A timely steal during a Tigers fast break gave Bucs back control and with the 24-second shot clock winding down, Igors Kuznecovs shot from the top of the arc, knocking down the clutch 3 and giving Bucs a 5 point lead with less than 90 seconds to play.

Tigers head coach Gary Carter called time-out to draw up a set play for an open 3-point look which narrowly missed, and Bucs showed poise down the stretch to weather the full court pressure from Tigers. An incredibly exciting finish to a highly competitive Playoff final.

Final score: Bridgwater Bucs 74 – 67 Huish Tigers.

Following the match the teams were presented with their runners-up and winners trophies. Bucs player and head coach Phil Rogers received the winners shield to the jubilation of the team and supporters celebrating their 12th title! Somerset Basketball Chairman Mason Galloway extended thanks to the game and table officials, announcer and those watching for providing such a great atmosphere and a fitting end to what has been a long but successful 2022/23 SBL season.