Louis Sayers: Our second year in BBL was a season for us all to be proud of

In just our second year in the top flight of British basketball, I think it’s fair to say we have earned some respect from the rest of the league.

Right from the beginning, we felt that we had a point to prove which was something that kept us focused throughout the season.

We set our sights on the play-offs from day one and, although we had our doubters, we were determined to prove them wrong.

When the final buzzer sounded in our last game of the regular season and we had secured our place in the BBL play-offs, it was an amazing feeling.

We felt proud of ourselves for the performance on the night, but seeing what it meant to the fans and everyone else involved in the club, as they rushed the court to celebrate, made the victory that much sweeter.

It has been a pleasure to go to battle every week with what I can confidently say was more than just a team.

A team that has been tenacious in our pursuit of a common goal and completely selfless throughout.

A team that is not only together on the court but a tightknit group off the court as well.

Making the play-offs was a huge achievement and it has been incredibly gratifying to be congratulated and thanked for our commitment as players.

However, the passion, devotion and total belief from the management, the volunteers, all the way through to the fans has been invaluable and was just as much a part of the journey as anything we did on the floor.

So firstly, to the ‘volunteers’ who made everything run smoothly on game days and practices. From driving the buses, to providing post-game food, to filming the games; thank you.

Secondly, on behalf of everyone at Leeds Force, I’d like to thank our sponsors, Esh Group, for their generous support of a relatively new BBL franchise.

Finally, thank you to our loyal Force fans!

You have shown us unbelievable support this season and we are very grateful.

The atmosphere in the Carnegie Sports Arena on game days has lifted us to some huge wins and been a major factor in our impressive home record.

We have our awards evening at Park Plaza Hotel on Friday, May 6, which is sure to be a great event.

You can book your tickets now and be a part of it!

Also, if you want to get ahead of the game, a season ticket is a brilliant and affordable way to watch Leeds Force in 2016/17, so what are you waiting for?

I’ve really enjoyed keeping you up to date with everything in the Leeds Force camp. So for now, thanks for reading.