Strong start paves the way as U16 Reds beat Bedford Thunder 81–57

Led by two of our scorers in the early stages, NHK showed excellent intensity from the outset to build a commanding 19–5 first-quarter lead, a deficit Bedford were ultimately unable to erase.

The second and third quarters were much tighter affairs. Unfortunately, high intensity can bring the risk of fouls. This, coupled with some indiscipline, including four technical fouls, kept Bedford within striking distance.

The Knights faced further adversity when one of those early scorers fouled out halfway through the third quarter, with the other already unavailable for the second half. If anything, these setbacks galvanised the squad and triggered some fantastic, cohesive team play at both ends of the floor.

A crucial scoring surge at the start of the fourth quarter, with 12 points from two players, snuffed out any prospect of a Bedford comeback. Despite conceding a string of fouls later in the period, and with a memorable debut from one of our newest players, victory was sealed by a flurry of clutch three-pointers to bring home the first W of the season.

Individuals led the way on rebounds and assists, but this was a whole-team performance with everyone making an impact. Defensive effort doesn’t always grab the headlines, but it wins matches, and the Knights consistently disrupted Bedford’s offence and unsettled their shooting rhythm.

There is still plenty to work on, but the signs are highly promising for a strong season ahead.