READING'S SAMIT NURUZADE WINS BCB COACH OF THE YEAR

Aldermore Reading Rockets head coach Samit Nuruzade has been named British Championship Basketball’s Coach of the Year, capping off an outstanding season in which his side claimed the league title.

The Azerbaijani play-caller led the Rockets to an impressive 22–4 record, highlighted by an eight-game winning streak that propelled them into this Sunday’s playoff final.

They are set to face the Newcastle Knights in Leeds, a city that holds personal significance for Nuruzade, who previously served there as an assistant coach with Leeds Carnegie, later known as Leeds Force.

“I’m really thrilled to win this award and thank you to everyone who voted for me,” Nuruzade said.

“I’d like to thank the club for the opportunity to coach such a wonderful team and my coaching staff, who have done great this year, and it’s an award that is definitely shared between all of us. I am really grateful for the recognition.”

Nuruzade’s success has been built on a talented group of players.

His squad includes British Player of the Year Victor Olarerin, who also earned spots on both the BCB Team of the Year and the British Team of the Year. Defensive standout Zain Poorman added to the team’s accolades by securing the BCB Defensive Player of the Year award.

Under Nuruzade’s leadership, Reading developed into the league’s meanest defensive unit, allowing just 75 points per game while producing an average of 88 points offensively. But most importantly to the Rockets staff, he’s been a joy to work with all season long.

“It’s so wonderful to see Samit recognised because he is an incredible coach whom I have learnt so much from,” said Rockets assistant coach Ben Fisher. “He truly deserves this award, and I’m honoured to work with him every day.”

His ability to balance defensive solidity with scoring efficiency has been central to the Rockets’ dominance this season, and they will now look to carry that form into the playoff final.