Category: Mystics

Manchester Mystics

The Weekend Wrap

The Weekend Wrap 2024-25 Week 7

Saturday 9th November

Manchester Magic D2 75–62 Bristol Basketball United

Manchester Magic D2 moved to 5-2 in the NBL Division 2 North after a home win against Bristol Basketball United on Saturday evening.

Magic were led by Ethan Tucker 24 points, 5 rebounds, a steal and 2 blocks, with support from Tyme Regent-Bascombe 21 points, 13 rebounds and 2 assists, Jack Walton 7 points, 4 rebounds, 9 assists and 4 steals, Ronney Ani 7 points, 6 rebounds and an assist, Demi Babalola 6 points, 7 rebounds, an assist and 2 blocks, Bailey Goodall 4 points, 10 rebounds, an assist, 3 steals and a block and Dan Davies (injured after 6 minutes), 2 points and 6 rebounds.

Up next for Magic D2 is an away game against Teesside Lions on Saturday 16th November at 6:00pm, followed by an away game in the fourth round of the National Cup against St. Helens Saints on Sunday 17th November at 4:00pm.

Manchester Mystics U18 95–25 Bromsgrove Bears

Manchester Mystics U18 move to 5-0 in the Premier North after a home win against Bromsgrove Bears on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U18 is an away game against The Sheffield College on Saturday 15th December at 1:00pm.

Manchester Magic U16 89–65 Derby Trailblazers

Manchester Magic U16 moved to 7-0 in the Premier North after a home win against Derby Trailblazers on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U16 is a home game in the fourth round of the National Cup against Derby Trailblazers on Saturday 16th November at 10:30am.

York Eagles 34-54 Manchester Mystics U16 2

Manchester Mystics U16 2 moved to 7-0 in the North Conference League after an away win against York Eagles on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U16 2 is an away game against Sheffield Hatters 2 on Saturday 30th November at 12:30pm.

City of Leeds Gold 53-92 Manchester Magic U14

Manchester Magic U14 moved to 4-1 in the Premier North after an away win against City of Leeds Gold on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U14 is a home game against Manchester Giants Blue on Saturday 16th November at 12:30pm.

Stockport Falcons White 63-48 Manchester Magic U14 2

Manchester Magic U14 2 moved to 1-2 in the North West 1 League after an away loss against Stockport Falcons White on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U14 2 is an away game against Barrow Thorns on Sunday 17th November at 2:00pm. 

Sunday 10th November

Brent Bulls 62-50 Manchester Mystics D1

Manchester Mystics D1 moved to 3-3 in the WNBL Division One after an away loss against Brent Bulls on Sunday afternoon.

Mystics were led by Elizandra Costa 12 points, Irene Oboavwoduo 12 points and Success Odemwingie 10 points.

Up next for Mystics D1 is a home game against Cobham Cobras on Saturday 16th November at 3:30pm.

Manchester Magic U18 91–60 Derby Trailblazers

Manchester Magic U18 moved to 2-1 in the Premier North after a home win against Derby Trailblazers on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U18 is an away game against Manchester Giants Blue on Saturday 16th November at 11:00am. Followed by a home game in the fourth round of the National Cup against Sheffield Elite on Sunday 17th November at 11:00am.

St. Helens Saints 95-60 Trafford Magic U18

Trafford Magic U18 moved to 0-5 in the Premier North after an away loss against St. Helens Saints on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Trafford Magic U18 is a home game against Team QE Basketball Academy on Sunday 17th November at 1:15pm.

Trafford Magic U16 49–115 Milton Keynes Breakers

Trafford Magic U16 move to 2-5 in the Premier North after a home loss against Milton Keynes Breakers on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Trafford Magic U16 is a home game against York Eagles 1 on Sunday 17th November at 1:15pm.

Manchester Giants Green 112-49 Manchester Magic U16 2

Manchester Magic U16 2 moved to 2-3 in the North West 1 Conference League after an away loss against Manchester Giants Green on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U16 2 was a home game against Manchester Swarm on Tuesday evening find out how they got on below.

Manchester Mystics U16 108–13 Bristol Academy Flyers

Manchester Mystics U16 moved to 5-0 in the Premier North after a home win against Bristol Academy Flyers on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U16 is a home game against Lancashire Spinners on Sunday 17th November at 3:30pm. 

Newcastle Eagles 64-54 Trafford Mystics U16

Trafford Mystics U16 moved to 3-3 in the Premier North after an away loss against Newcastle Eagles on Sunday afternoon. 

Up next for Trafford Mystics U16 is an away game against Sheffield Hatters on Sunday 17th November at 12:00noon.

Stockport Lapwings 31-75 Manchester Mystics U14

Manchester Mystics U14 moved to 2-0 in the North 1 League after an away win against Stockport Lapwings on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U14 was a home game against in-house rivals Manchester Mystics 2 on Wednesday evening, find out how they got on below.  

Mersey Mavericks 30-78 Manchester Mystics U12 2

Manchester Mystics U12 2 moved to 2-1 in the North West 1 League after an away win against Mersey Mavericks on Sunday afternoon. 

Up next for Mystics U12 2 is an away game against Cheshire Roar on Saturday 23rd November at 9:30am.

Tuesday 12th November

Manchester Magic U16 2 44–11 Manchester Swarm

Manchester Magic U16 2 moved to 2-4 in the North West 1 Conference League after a home loss against Manchester Swarm on Tuesday evening.

Up next for Magic U16 2 is a home game against Toxteth El8te on Saturday 16th November at 3:00pm, followed by an away game against Cheshire Phoenix White on Sunday 17th November at 2:00pm.

Wednesday 13th November

Manchester Mystics U14 80–41 Manchester Mystics U14 2

Manchester Mystics U14 moved to 3-0 in the North 1 League after a home win against in-house rival Manchester Mystics U14 2 on Wednesday evening. Mystics U14 2 moved to 0-4.

Up next for Mystics U14 is a home game against Newcastle Eagles on Saturday 16th November at 12:30pm. 

Up next for Mystics U14 2 is an away game against City of Birmingham Rockets on Saturday 23rd November at 12:00noon. 

Coach Jim's Report

Coach Jim’s Report: Mystics U16 2 at York

Our weekend tour of northern England tourist attractions took us to York on Saturday and Stockport on Sunday. I was happy to be able to use as many as 14 players over the two games. They all deserve praise for their contributions. 

York U16s are widely regarded as one of the top 4 teams in the Northern Conference so I anticipated a tough game. Maybe I should consider becoming a clairvoyant because that’s precisely what we got! Defences dominated for the opening 10 minute which we won 11-4. We continued to look the more accomplished side up to half-time and established a 27-14 lead. Our team defence had been as good as I could have hoped for but special mention must go to our two main disrupters, Christiana and Elsa. They were truly outstanding.

Christiana, ably supported by Emmy, also orchestrated our offense to allow Darcie, Emmanuela and Elsa to do the bulk of the scoring before and after the break (during which time I had a kitkat!) We were now in a relatively strong position but this did not last long. We began to turn the ball over due to passing which had become sloppier than the custard I was served up with for school dinners. We also seemed more lethargic than normal. As a result, the lead had been cut to seven with the momentum now firmly with the home side.

Fortunately, as all good teams do, the players listened to what could either be termed as advice or as an ultimatum after a time out. Their response was first-class. We eased the margin back up to 11 going into the final period and undoubtedly saved the best til last. Using all 10 players in almost equal measure (although Maisie I is a little shorter than Elsa!), our stifling team defence restricted a talented York side to a mere 1 point across the first 9 minutes of the quarter. A deserved 54-34 victory resulted

Well played all of the above plus Morgan, Aila, Maisie and Chichi for such a fine all round performance.

The road trip excitement did not end there. It extended way into the evening by way of a 6 hour quick stop for what is allegedly ‘fast food’ at a McDonald’s to end a thoroughly enjoyable day. Many thanks to Christiana’s dad for driving and to Morgan’s mum for again being Mrs Organised, as well as to our loyal band of supporters.

In what was only our second u14 Premier league fixture of the season, we travelled to play Stockport at St Anne’s Voluntary High School which made me wonder if the pupils could decide whether or not they wanted to turn up for lessons! Results so far elsewhere at this level suggest that it would be Sheffield and Birmingham who are our main threats but it never pays to underestimate any opponent. Consequently, I started with what I currently consider to be my first 5 of Christiana, Adele, Darcie, Emmanuela and Elsa.

We began in lively fashion and created several early opportunities. Initially, these all went abegging, as can often be the case on a foreign court (even though Stockport is in England.) It did not take long for the girls to settle. We totally dominated the first quarter, despite using 10 of the 11 players on duty, to lead 23-5. By half-time the lead had grown to 24 and ended almost double that to finish 75-31 against opponents who never gave up from the first whistle to the last. I was very pleased by the contributions made by Olivia, Alycia, Maisie W, Zoe, Chichi and Emmy who all proved how deep a bench we have this season.

Coach Jim's Report

Coach Jim’s Report: Mystics U16 2 at Mersey Mavericks

Any Manchester-Merseyside sports fixture has added spice to it, and Mystics U14s visit to Liverpool to play Mersey Mavericks U16s yesterday had plenty to savour for the capacity crowd of about 20. We were without the influential due of Christiana and Emmy. They were doubtless high in confidence, having defeated the previously unbeaten York Vikings the day before.

The scene was set for a titanic showdown on a par with Wyatt Earp facing Billy the Kid. In theory, the task before us looked to be as tricky as trying to roller skate on ice. In practice, the opening skirmishes indicated the game would be as tight as any Yorkshireman. Mersey had a quick, skilful guard, some height and seemed mobile and well-organised. They looked as though they could be a tougher test than an A level physics exam.

That said, it did not take long for our 5 starters of Adele, Emmanuela, Elsa, Darcie and Chichi to find their feet. (They were in their trainers!) Fully aware that it was nearly November 5th,  Emmanuela and Darcie were on fire in the first quarter. They scored the bulk of our 23 points with Adele racking up numerous assists with her impressive range of passing. Not to be outdone, Elsa and Chichi shone at the defensive end like highly polishes shoes to help restrict our opponents to a mere 5 points.

By half-time, the lead had grown to 28 at 43-15 thanks to some eye-catching basketball from all 10 Mystics. The 2 Ronnies, sorry, the 2 Maisies, Morgan, Zoe and Jahnia had all seized the opportunity to show their worth. They, too, had helped us in our aim to play harder and smarter than whoever we play against.

Possibly as a consequence of too frequent substitutions from me, possibly because we had a tendency to over-complicate things but our standards slipped somewhat in the third quarter. Our decision making reminded me of a broken Sat-nav-  in that it became wayward at times. There were too many occasions when we shot too early in the shot clock or we tried to force things. This resulted in us only managing 14 points over the next 10 minutes.

A time out reminded those who needed reminding of the error of their ways. To their credit, they responded like Nelson (admirably!) so that the status quo (who had 20 hits with more or less the same monotonous tune) was restored in the fourth period which yielded 21 points for us. Our 78-35 victory makes it appear it was akin to the Swans at Alton Towers, an easy ride. It wasn’t as bumpy as the Big One at Blackpool but we did need to be on our game. Full credit to all 10 Mystics for being just that, as a somewhat different make-up of our players were the day before in the comfortable 71-30 win over Hartlepool expertly overseen by James.

Many thanks to all those involved on Saturday and to Annmarie plus our ever-reliable, helpful parents for you taxiing and support on Sunday. We now face the prospect of 3 games in 5 days with a trip to play a strong York side U16s on Saturday , an actual U14 fixture away to Stockport on Sunday, followed by a Wednesday evening local derby against Mystics U14 II. These precede two consecutive away trips to face Sheffield at U14 and U16 level. These last two are the games which will give us a true indication of where we are currently at. (I don’t mean in south Yorkshire! I do mean how relatively strong we are.)

The Weekend Wrap

The Weekend Wrap 2024-25 Week 6

Thursday 31st October

Sheffield Elite 82-61 Trafford Magic U18 – Cup R3

Trafford Magic U18 dropped out of the National cup at the third round stage after an away loss against Sheffield Elite on Thursday evening.

Up next for Trafford Magic U18 is an away game against St. Helens Saints on Sunday 9th November at 1:00pm.

Trafford Mystics U18 67–68 Manchester Mystics U18 – Cup QF

Manchester Mystics U18 advanced to the semi finals of the National Cup after an away win against in-house rivals Trafford Mystics U18 on Thursday evening, Trafford Mystics drop out of the National Cup at the Quarter Final stage.

Up next for Trafford Mystics U18 is an away game against Nottingham Wildcats on Saturday 16th November at 12:30pm.

Up next for Manchester Mystics U18 is a home game against Bromsgrove Bears on Saturday 9th November at 3:00pm.

Saturday 2nd November

Endeavor Ipswich 80-51 Manchester Mystics D1

Manchester Mystics D1 moved to 3-2 in the WNBL Division One after an away loss against Endeavor Ipswich on Saturday afternoon.

Mystics were led by Irene Oboavwoduo 16 points, 15 rebounds, an assist, 4 steals and 3 blocks, with support from Kizzy Spence 10 points and 3 rebounds , Elizandra Costa 8 points, 4 rebounds and 4 steals, Michelle Ortega 3 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals, Nat Feurtado 4 points, 7 rebounds and 2 steals and Success Odemwingie 4 points, 5 rebounds and 3 steals.

Up next for Mystics D1 was an away game against Loughborough Riders on Sunday afternoon in the National Cup, find out how they got on below. 

Sheffield Elite 53-74 Manchester Magic U16

Manchester Magic U16 moved to 6-0 in the Premier North after an away win against Sheffield Elite on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U16 was an away game against York Eagles 1 in the National Cup on Sunday afternoon, find out how they got on below.

City of Birmingham Rockets 76-62 Trafford Magic U16

Trafford Magic U16 move to 2-4 in the Premier North after an away loss against City of Birmingham Rockets on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Trafford Magic U16 is a home game against Milton Keynes Breakers on Sunday 10th November at 1:15pm.

Trafford Mystics U16 59–76 Nottingham Wildcats

Trafford Mystics U16 moved to 3-2 in the Premier North after a home loss against Nottingham Wildcats on Saturday afternoon. 

Up next for Trafford Mystics U16 is an away game against Newcastle Eagles on Sunday 10th November at 4:00pm.

Manchester Mystics U16 2 71–30 Hartlepool Huskies

Manchester Mystics U16 2 moved to 5-0 in the North Conference League after a home win against Hartlepool Huskies on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U16 2 was an away game against Mersey Mavericks on Sunday afternoon, find out how they got on below.

Manchester Magic U14 2 74–73 Tameside Vikings

Manchester Magic U14 2 moved to 1-1 in the North West 1 League after a home win against Tameside Vikings on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U14 2 was an away game against Barrow Thorns on Sunday afternoon, find out how they got on below.

Sunday 3rd November

Cardiff City 77-79 Manchester Magic D2

Manchester Magic D2 moved to 4-2 in the NBL Division 2 North after an away win against Cardiff City on Sunday evening.

Magic were led by Dan Davies 19 points, 8 rebounds, an assist and a steal, with support from Albert Margai 17 points, 5 rebounds and a steal, Jack Walton 13 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and a steal, Ethan Tucker 10 points, 2 rebounds and a block, Tyme Regent-Bascombe 9 points and 10 rebounds, and Bailey Goodall 8 points and a rebound.

Up next for Magic D2 is a home game against Bristol Basketball United on Saturday 9th November at 5:30pm.

Loughborough Riders 73-68* Manchester Mystics D1 – Cup Round 2 – *Overtime

Manchester Mystics D1 dropped out of the National Cup at the second round stage after an away loss against Loughborough Riders on Sunday afternoon.

Mystics were led by Kissy Spence 16 points, 3 rebounds and a steal, with support from Elizandra Costa 15 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists and 4 steals, Michelle Ortega 14 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals and a block, Rehana Khalil 10 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, 5 steals and a block, Irene Oboavwoduo 3 points and 5 rebounds and Remi Idowu 2 points, 9 rebounds, an assist and a steal.

Up next for Mystics D1 is an away game against Brent Bulls on Sunday 10th November at 3:00pm.

Manchester Magic U18 101–49 Manchester Giants Blue – Cup Round 3

Manchester Magic U18 advanced to the fourth round of the National Cup after a home win against Manchester Giants Blue on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U18 is a home game against Derby Trailblazers on Sunday 10th November at 3:30pm.

York Eagles 1 32-82 Manchester Magic U16 – Cup Round 3

Manchester Magic U16 advanced to the fourth round of the National Cup after an away win against York Eagles 1 on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U16 is a home game against Derby Trailblazers on Saturday 9th November at 12:30pm.

Manchester Magic U16 2 44–64 Cheshire Wire Green

Manchester Magic U16 2 moved to 2-2 in the North West 1 Conference League after a home loss against Cheshire Wire Green on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U16 2 is an away game against Manchester Giants Green on Sunday 10th November at 12:00noon.

Manchester Mystics U16 67–51 Sheffield Hatters – Quarter Final

Manchester Mystics U16 advanced to the semi finals of the National Cup after a home win against Sheffield Hatters on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U16 is a home game against Bristol Academy Flyers on Sunday 10th November at 1:15pm.

Mersey Mavericks 35-78 Manchester Mystics U16 2

Manchester Mystics U16 2 moved to 6-0 in the North Conference League after an away win against Mersey Mavericks on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U16 2 is an away game against York Eagles on Saturday 9th November at 1:00pm.

The Weekend Wrap

The Weekend Wrap 2024-25 Week 5

Saturday 26th October

Manchester Magic D2 67–69* Bristol Academy Flyers 2 *Overtime

Manchester Magic D2 moved to 3-2 in the NBL Division 2 North after a home overtime loss against Bristol Academy Flyers 2 on Saturday evening.

Magic were led by  Dan Davies 16 points, 11 rebounds, an assist, 2 steals and a block, with support from Demi Babalola 15 points, 11 rebounds, a steal and a block, Tyme Regent-Bascombe 12 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals, Jack Walton 8 points, 2 rebounds, 6 assists and 6 steals and Elgin Govan 7 points, a rebound, 2 assists, a steal and a block.

Up next for Magic D2 was an away game against Liverpool in the National Cup on Sunday afternoon, find out how they got on below.

Bristol Academy Flyers 41-98 Trafford Mystics U18

Trafford Mystics U18 moved to 1-1 in the Premier North after an away win against Bristol Academy Flyers on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Trafford Mystics U18 is a home game against in-house rivals Manchester Mystics in the National Cup on Thursday 31st October at 8:15pm.

Manchester Magic U16 78–50 Trafford Magic U16

Manchester Magic U16 moved to 5-0 in the Premier North after a home win against in-house rivals Trafford Magic on Saturday afternoon. Trafford Magic U16 move to 2-3 in the Premier North.

Up next for Magic U16 is an away game against Sheffield Elite on Saturday 2nd November at 1:00pm, followed by an away game against York Eagles 1 in the National Cup on Sunday 3rd November at 3:00pm.

Up next for Trafford Magic U16 is an away game against City of Birmingham Rockets on Saturday 2nd November at 12:20pm.

Lancashire Spinners 58-60 Trafford Mystics U16

Trafford Mystics U16 moved to 3-1 in the Premier North after an away win against Lancashire Spinners on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Trafford Mystics U16 is a home game against Nottingham Wildcats on Saturday 2nd November at 3:00pm.

Teesside Lions 34-83 Manchester Mystics U16 2

Manchester Mystics U16 2 moved to 4-0 in the North Conference League after an away win against Teesside Lions on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U16 2 is a home game against Hartlepool Huskies on Saturday 2nd November at 12:30pm, followed by an away game against Mersey Mavericks on Sunday 3rd November at 12:00noon.

Leeds LDM 44-59 Manchester Magic U14

Manchester Magic U14 moved to 3-1 in the Premier North after an away win against Leeds LDM on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U14 is an away game against City of Leeds Gold on Saturday 9th November at 12:20pm.

Manchester Mystics U14 2 55–81 Newcastle Eagles

Manchester Mystics U14 2 moved to 0-3 in the North 1 League after a home loss against Newcastle Eagles on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U14 2 is an away game against in-house rivals Manchester Mystics on Wednesday 13th November at 6:00pm.

Sunday 27th October

Liverpool 53-61 Manchester Magic D2 – National Cup Round 3

Manchester Magic D2 advanced to the fourth round of the National Cup after an away win against Liverpool on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Magic D2 is an away game against Cardiff City on Sunday 3rd November at 4:30pm.

Manchester Mystics D1 61–69* Anglia Ruskin *Overtime

Manchester Mystics D1 moved to 3-1 in the WNBL Division One after a home overtime loss against Anglia Ruskin on Sunday afternoon.

Mystics were led by Irene Oboavwoduo 17 points, 8 rebounds 3 assists and a steal, with support from Kizzy Spence 14 points and 3 rebounds, Elizandra Costa 13 points, 4 rebounds, an assist and 5 steals, Rehana Khalil 6 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists and a block and Remi Idowu 6 points, 5 rebounds, an assist and a block.

Up next for Mystics D1 is an away game against Endeavor Ipswich on Saturday 2nd November at 3:30pm, followed by an away game against Loughborough Riders on Sunday 3nd November at 3:30pm in the National Cup.  

Myerscough 95-35 Trafford Magic U18

Trafford Magic U18 moved to 0-4 in the Premier North after an away loss against Myerscough on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Trafford Magic U18 is an away game against Sheffield Elite on Thursday 31st October at 7:00pm in the National Cup.

Coach Jim's Report

Coach Jim’s Report: Mystics U16 2 at Derby

After a 3-hour drive through enough rain to put off a hosepipe ban for another 5 years, I thought I was hallucinating when I spotted one of our club minibuses in the car park yesterday. Had I driven around in circles and taken a wrong turn on the M6 to end up in Whalley Range? I hadn’t realized Magic U16s were playing at the same venue.

Unfortunately, Magic failed to produce enough of their name and couldn’t overcome a powerful Derby Trailblazers U18s. Mystics’ U14 game v Trailblazers U16 followed this but our opponents weren’t as powerful as the team Magic faced.(Water pistol compared to power washer.)

We began as tentatively as a vegetarian opening a tin of spam. This is often the case when playing on a strange court. (It wasn’t strange due to it being bright yellow, it was just that we had never played there before.) We missed a couple of early lay ups, possibly because the basketball was so bouncy that if there had been no roof, it would now on its way to the moon. The ball was as over-inflated as an American politician’s own opinion of his own fabulousness. (A word I’ve just made up.)

It soon became evident that our pace and range of passing would prove to be as problematic To Derby as I find trigonometry. Consequently, I was able to share court time equitably amongst the 11 Mystics on show. All 11 made positive contributions (over and above shelling out for their match fee.)

Without being at their very best (which, by all accounts they were the day before under James’s tutelage in their impressive 72-45 win over a strong Leicester Riders U16s), the girls did produce enough flashes of brilliance to secure a very comfortable 85-23 victory to maintain their excellent start to the season-  U14 Northern Prem. 1-0, U16 Northern Conf. 3-0.

Many thanks to James, Annmarie and Lorna for all you do for our team plus to our fab parents for your support and taxi driving.

Please could you inform Annmarie of any unavailability re. training and games on 26 Oct and 2 and 3 Nov.

The Weekend Wrap

The Weekend Wrap 2024-25 Week 4

Saturday 19th October

Barking Abbey 33-66 Manchester Mystics D1

Manchester Mystics D1 moved to 3-0 in the WNBL Division One after an away win against Barking Abbey on Saturday evening.

Mystics were led by Rehana Khalil 24 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists and 4 steals, with support from Irene Oboavwoduo 14 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals, Remi Idowu 6 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals and a block, Faith Ohiengbomwan 6 points, 8 rebounds, an assist and a steal and Elizandra Costa 3 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists and 3 steals.

Up next for Mystics D1 is a home game against Anglia Ruskin University on Sunday 27th October at 3:30pm.

Trafford Magic U18 76–81 Charnwood College Riders

Trafford Magic U18 moved to 0-2 in the Premier North after a home loss against Charnwood College Riders on Saturday afternoon

Up next for Trafford Magic U18 was an away game against Derby Trailblazers on Sunday afternoon, find out how they got on below.  

Manchester Magic U16 83–70 Mersey Mavericks

Manchester Magic U16 moved to 4-0 in the Premier North after a home win against Mersey Mavericks on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U16 is a home game against in-house rivals Trafford Magic on Saturday 26th October at 12:30pm.

Trafford Mystics U16 63–60 Bristol Academy Flyers

Trafford Mystics U16 moved to 2-1 in the Premier North after a home win against Bristol Academy Flyers on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Trafford Mystics U16 is an away game against Lancashire Spinners on Saturday 26th October at 1:00pm.

Manchester Mystics U16 2 72–45 Leicester Riders

Manchester Mystics U16 2 moved to 2-0 in the North Conference League after a home win against Leicester Riders on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U16 2 was an away game against Derby Trailblazers on Sunday afternoon, find out how they got on below.

Manchester Magic U14 88–84 Milton Keynes Breakers 2

Manchester Magic U14 moved to 2-1 in the Premier North after a home win against Milton Keynes Breakers 2 on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U14 is an away game against Leeds LDM on Saturday 26th October at 11:30am.

Sunday 20th October

Leicester Warriors 63-56 Manchester Magic D2

Manchester Magic D2 moved to 3-1 in the NBL Division 2 North after an away loss against Leicester Warriors on Sunday afternoon.

Magic were led by Demi Babalola 15 points, 3 rebounds, an assist and 2 steals, with support from Dan Davies 13 points, 7 rebounds and an assist, Jack Walton 12 points, 2 rebounds and a steal, Ronney Ani 7 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals and Bailey Goodall 8 rebounds a steal and 2 blocks.

Up next for Magic D2 is a home game against Bristol Academy Flyers on Saturday 26th October at 5:30pm, followed by an away game against Liverpool on Sunday 27th October at 3:00pm in the National Cup.

Derby Trailblazers 103-63 Trafford Magic U18

Trafford Magic U18 moved to 0-3 in the Premier North after an away loss against Derby Trailblazers on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Trafford Magic U18 is an away game against Myerscough on Sunday 27th October at 4:00pm. 

Manchester Mystics U18 98–58 Charnwood College Riders

Manchester Mystics U18 move to 4-0 in the Premier North after a home win against Charnwood College Riders on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U18 is a home game against Nottingham Wildcats on Saturday 26th October at 3:00pm.

Trafford Magic U16 88–117 Newcastle Eagles

Trafford Magic U16 moved to 2-2 in the Premier North after a home loss against Newcastle Eagles on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Trafford U16 is an away game against in-house rivals Trafford Magic on Saturday 26th October at 12:30pm.

St. Helens Saints 128-26 Manchester Magic U16 2

Manchester Magic U16 2 moved to 2-1 in the North West 1 Conference League after an away loss against St. Helens Saints on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U16 2 is a home game against Manchester Swarn on Saturday 26th October at 3:00pm.

Derbyshire Arrows 38-92 Manchester Mystics U16

Manchester Mystics U16 moved to 4-0 in the Premier North after an away win against Derbyshire Arrows on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U16 is a home game against Milton Keynes Breakers on Sunday 27th October at 1:15pm.  

Derby Trailblazers 23-85 Manchester Mystics U16 2

Manchester Mystics U16 2 moved to 3-0 in the North Conference League after an away win against Derby Trailblazers on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U16 2 is an away game against Teesside Lions on Saturday 26th October at 1:00pm.

Manchester Mystics U14 2 46–114 Sheffield Hatters

Manchester Mystics U14 2 moved to 0-2 in the North 1 League after a home loss against Sheffield Hatters on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U14 2 is a home game against Newcastle Eagles on Sunday 26th October at 12:30pm.

Manchester Magic U12 87–40 Tameside Vikings

Manchester Magic U12 moved to 2-0 in the North West Irwell after a home win against Tameside Vikings on Sunday afternoon.  

Up next for Magic U12 is an away game against Cheshire Phoenix on Sunday 10th November at 12:30pm.

Manchester Mystics U12 112–14 Mersey Mavericks

Manchester Mystics U12 moved to 2-0 in the North West 1 League after a home win against Mersey Mavericks on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U12 is an away game against Padgate on Sunday 3rd November at 1:30pm.

Manchester Mystics U12 2 78–75 Stockport Lapwings

Manchester Mystics U12 2 moved to 1-1 in the North West 1 League after a home win against Stockport Lapwings on Sunday afternoon.  

Up next for Mystics U12 2 is an away game against Mersey Mavericks on Sunday 10th November at 10:00am.

The Weekend Wrap

The Weekend Wrap 2024-25 Week 3

Thursday 10th October

Manchester Mystics U18 83–38 The Sheffield College – Cup R2

Manchester Mystics U18 advanced to the third round of the National Cup after a home win against The Sheffield College on Thursday evening.

Up next for Mystics U18 was an away game against in-house rivals Trafford Mystics on Monday evening, find out how they got on below.

Saturday 12th October

Manchester Magic D2 64–58 Cardiff Met Archers

Manchester Magic D2 moved to 3-0 in the NBL Division 2 North after a home win against Cardiff Met Archers on Saturday evening.

Magic were led by Tyme Regent-Bascombe 16 points, 13 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals, with support from Josh Pearce 12 points, 11 rebounds, 3 assists a steal and a block, Jack Walton 11 points and 4 assists, Elgin Govan 9 points, a rebound and an assist and Dan Davies 8 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals and a block.

Up next for Magic D2 is an away game against Leicester Warriors on Sunday 20th October at 1:00pm.

Liverpool 50-95 Manchester Mystics D1 – Cup Round 1

Manchester Mystics D1 advanced to the third round of the National Cup after an away win against Liverpool on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics D1 is an away game against Barking Abbey on Saturday 19th October at 6:00pm.

Manchester Giants 76-78 Manchester Magic U16

Manchester Magic U16 moved to 3-0 in the Premier North after an away win against Manchester Giants on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U16 was an away game against Stockport Falcons Green on Sunday afternoon in the National Cup, find out how they got on below.

City of Leeds Gold 83-72 Trafford Magic U16

Trafford Magic U16 moved to 2-1 in the Premier North after an away loss against City of Leeds Gold on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Trafford U16 is a home game against Newcastle Eagles on Sunday 20th October at 1:15pm.

City of Birmingham Rockets 32-94 Manchester Mystics U16

Manchester Mystics U16 moved to 3-0 in the Premier North after an away win against City of Birmingham Rockets on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U16 was an away game against Newcastle Eagles on Sunday afternoon in the National Cup, find out how they got on below.

Manchester Mystics U16 2 68–38 Liverpool

Manchester Mystics U16 2 opened their season with a home win against Liverpool on Saturday afternoon to move to 1-0 in the North Conference League.

Up next for Mystics U16 2 is a home game against Leicester Riders on Saturday 19th October at 12:30pm, following by an away game against Derby Trailblazers on Sunday 20th October at 3:00pm.

Manchester Mystics U14 74–47 Lancashire Spinners

Manchester Mystics U14 opened their season with a home win against Lancashire Spinners on Saturday afternoon to move to 1-0 in the North 1 League.

Up next for Mystics U14 is an away game against Stockport Lapwings on Sunday 10th November at 2:00pm.

Sunday 13th October

Manchester Kings 33–108 Manchester Magic U18 – Cup Round 2

Manchester Magic U18 advanced to the third round of the National Cup after an away win against Manchester Kings on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U18 is an away game against St. Helens Saints on Sunday 20th October at 1:00pm.

Trafford Magic U18 108–41 Stockport Falcons – Cup Round 2

Trafford Magic U18 advanced to the third round of the National Cup after an away win against Stockport Falcons on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Trafford Magic U18 is a home game against Charnwood College Riders on Saturday 19th October at 3:00pm.

Stockport Falcons Green 60–76 Manchester Magic U16 – Cup Round 2

Manchester Magic U16 advanced to the third round of the National Cup after an away win against Stockport Falcons Green on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U16 is a home game against Mersey Mavericks on Saturday 19th October at 12:30pm.

Newcastle Eagles 38–105 Manchester Mystics U16 – Cup Round 2

Manchester Mystics U16 advanced to the third round of the National Cup after an away win against Newcastle Eagles on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U16 is an away game against Derbyshire Arrows on Sunday 20th October at 1:00pm.

Manchester Magic U16 2 83–71 Barrow Thorns

Manchester Magic U16 2 moved to 2-0 in the North West 1 Conference League after a home win against Barrow Thorns on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U16 2 is an away game against St. Helens Saints on Sunday 20th October at 11:00am.

Monday 14th October

Trafford Mystics U18 68-87 Manchester Mystics U18

Trafford Mystics U18 opened their season with a home loss against in-house rivals Manchester Mystics to move to 0-1 in the Premier North. Manchester Mystics U18 move to 3-0 in the Premier North.

Up next for Trafford Mystics U18 is a home game against The Sheffield College on Saturday 19th October at 3:00pm.

Up next for Mystics U18 is a home game against Charnwood College Riders on Sunday 20th October at 3:30pm

Wednesday 16th October

Manchester Mystics U12 2 22-64 Manchester Mystics U12

Manchester Mystics U12 2 opened their season with a home loss against in-house rivals Manchester Mystics U12 to move to 0-1 in the North West 1 League. Manchester Mystics U12 moved to 1-0.

Up next for Mystics U12 2 is a home game against Stockport Lapwings on Sunday 20th October at 11:00am.

Up next for Mystics U12 is a home game against Mersey Mavericks on Sunday 20th October at 11:00am.

Coach Jim's Report

Coach Jim’s Report – two reports for the price of one

Report 1/2

Mystics U14 I’s basketball bonanza began, for some, with a non-national league game at Reddish for who ever which meant a number of our number would get number and number as the day progressed due to being part of in 3 games in 6 hours. Fortunately, those involved are as fit as fiddles and came through with flying colours. (To my chagrin, I have used two expressions there which make no sense to me. Is a fiddle any fitter than, say, a trumpet and has anyone ever seen colours fly?)

I digress, as I often do. Back to our first game, versus Lancashire Spinners (who sound far less fierce some than if they were named Lancashire Fast Bowlers. Our starting 5 of Adele, Christiana, Emmanuela, Darcie and Elsa is as well-balanced as an Olympic athlete performing on the beam. If they felt they had something to prove, they proved it in emphatic fashion in the opening 5 minutes. A breath taking burst resulted in an 18-2 lead. Just about everything this talented quintet served up was worth 3 Michelin stars.

The early introduction of Emmy Chichi, Maisie W and Alycia did not hinder the quality of the basketball on show as we dominated the first quarter 24-9. Olivia and Gabby then made cameo appearances early in the second period and both looked as sharp as new pencils. Although Spinners tightened up somewhat on defence and benefitted from being gifted a host of free throws, we pulled away further to go up 42-20 by half-time despite being in foul trouble.

Aside from the major contributions from our more established ‘Magnificent Seven,’ I was most gratified to have confirmed the faith I had in those who came off the end of the bench. The trust I have in their ability is far greater than that I witnessed when I saw a man who was teaching a friend to drive. He was evidently doubtful of the driver’s capabilities because he got into the passenger seat wearing a crash helmet!

Foul trouble did slow us down after the break (which was just as well because some of our fast breaks were in danger of incurring a speeding fine.) As an aside, which I wouldn’t mention if we had lost, a foul count of 21-5 against us, with no fouls at all called on our opponents in the entire second half (which is as likely to happen as me turning water into wine) is bewildering. It baffled me even more than the fact that Belgians have chosen to speak French when they don’t have to, why this country has only one Monopolies Commission or why any sane person supports Spurs!

With a lead as comfortable as a de luxe mattress, the second half was principally about trying to keep our noses in front while giving our less experienced team members a good run. And run well they all did to make this a genuine all-round team display against opposition who performed far better than the did in our pre-season friendlies against them. It was heart warming to discover that no less than 5 Mystics registering double figures. This makes thing far more problematic for opponents than facing a team with just one or two dominant scorers.

Obviously, there is much still to work on, particularly movement off the ball at both ends plus a tendency to over-dribble but early season signs are far more encouraging for us than they are for a local Premier League football outfit while they have Erik ten Excuses in charge!

Report two to follow as soon as I recover from word processers cramp and return home after my flu jab at 12.10.

Report 2/2

With the 12.30 fixture over, I had just enough time to dally with possible indigestion by hurriedly cramming a sandwich and an apple into my chops (not at the same time). The orange would have to wait until later. Up next were Liverpool U16s at 3.00. If I said the U14s were playing up, you would be forgiven for thinking they were being a nuisance. Far from it. James and I (not myself!) consider ourselves fortunate to have inherited such a delightful group of athletes (and parents).

Being faced with players who, in  some cases are 3 years older than 6 of our group and 2 years older than our ‘seniors,’ I was anxious that the u16 conference could be too demanding physically. If this encounter (which didn’t turn out to be either close or of the third kind with it being our first u16 fixture) is anything to go by, I should save any anxiety I may have for how difficult it is likely to be for me to cut my own toenails in years to come!

The early skirmishes did give the impression that the contest would be as tight as anyone from Leeds, Bradford, Hull or Halifax etc. (For anyone hailing from Yorkshire, every pound is a prisoner!) Tight that is, until Adele and Christiana found their Midas touch towards the end of the first quarter. With Elsa, Emmy and Darcie looking as impenetrable as Fort Knox on defence, we deservedly established a 21-11 lead.

Chichi (nearly a dance!) then came into her own at both ends of the court in the second period as she and Darcie took over as our main scorers. Special mention now also goes to Aila and Alycia for scrapping as hard as prize fighters on defence to help us go into the break 35-26.

I still didn’t have time to eat my orange but that was a small price to pay for a performance that was as impressive as the Taj Mahal (the palace in India, not the curry house in Rusholme!) On a slight downside, we were once again alleged to have done (by the same referee or by his twin brother?) more fouling than an untrained dog. This was to result in having to do without the highly valuable services of Christiana for a great deal of the second half. It would have been a much bigger deal had not Emmy stepped up so efficiently in the same role. (Position not ham or cheese.)

When a team has a decent lead, being more liberal with substitutions becomes easier. I’m pleased to report that our least experienced players in Morgan, Maisie I, Zoe and Aila all contributed positively in the second half. Maisie gave nothing away on defence. (Maybe she’s from Yorkshire?) Morgan finished proceedings with 2 nicely taken baskets. Zoe fitted in extremely well on offence to provide 3 assists for Chichi and Aila continued to contest every loose ball as if her life depended on it.

It would be remiss of me not to mention what an outstanding job Elsa did to curtail the genuine threat of Liverpool’s dangerous centre M Forsyth. All 11 Mystics who represented our club in this game echoed the achievement of a slightly different 11 in the u14 game in that they all played with skill, intensity and togetherness. The 68-38 victory in the second match was far more deserved than being shoved up into the House of Lords by some of our recent Prime Ministers without merit. Always good to end on a controversial note! 

Sincere thanks to Annmarie, Lorna and Mike plus our excellent table officials for all they did for us. Likewise, to our wonderful parents/potential assistant coaches for their magnificent support. Two u16 games next week- Leicester at home on Saturday and Derby away on Sunday. Please let us know of any unavailability as soon as possible.

The Weekend Wrap

The Weekend Wrap 2024-25 Week 2

Saturday 5th October

Manchester Magic D2 74-59 Myerscough

Manchester Magic D2 moved to 2-0 in the NBL Division 2 North after a home win against Myerscough on Saturday evening.

Magic were led by Jack Walton 14 points, 3 rebounds, 8 assists and 4 steals, with support from Dan Davies 12 points, 4 rebounds, an assist and a block, Josh Pearce 10 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 blocks, Tyme Regent-Bascombe 10 points, 4 rebounds and 3 steals, Ronny Ani 9 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals and a block and Albert Margai 8 points, a rebound, 8 assists and 4 steals.

Up next for Magic D2 was a home game against Cheshire Wire on Sunday afternoon in the National Cup, find out how they got on below.

Manchester Mystics D1 60–51 Bristol Academy Flyers

Manchester Mystics D1 moved to 2-0 in the WNBL Division One after a home win against Bristol Academy Flyers on Saturday evening.

Mystics were led by Elizandra Costs 15 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals, with support from Kizzy Spence 13 points, 4 rebounds and a steal, Irene Oboavwoduo 10 points, 11 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals, Rehana Khalil 8 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists and 6 steals and Michelle Ortega 7 points, 2 rebounds, an assist and a steal.

Up next for Mystics D1 is an away game against Liverpool on Saturday 12th October at 1:00pm in the National Cup.

Manchester Giants 116-35 Trafford Magic U18  

Trafford Magic U18 opened their season with an away loss against Manchester Giants on Saturday afternoon to move to 0-1 in the Premier North.

Up next for Trafford Magic U18 is a home game against Stockport Falcons on Sunday 13th October at TBC in the National Cup.

Team Wolverhampton SLAM! 49-89 Trafford Mystics U18 – Cup Round 2

Trafford Mystics advanced to the third round of the National Cup after an away win against Team Wolverhampton SLAM! on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Trafford Mystics U18 is a home game against in-house rivals Manchester Mystics on Monday 14th October at 6:15pm.

Trafford Mystics U16 35–117 Milton Keynes Breakers

Trafford Mystics U16 moved to 1-1 in the Premier North after a home loss against Milton Keynes Breakers on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Trafford Mystics U16 is a home game against Bristol Academy Flyers on Saturday 19th October at 3:00pm.

Manchester Magic U14 79–83 Coventry Tornadoes

Manchester Magic U14 moved to 1-1 in the Premier North after a home loss against Coventry Tornadoes on Saturday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U14 is a home game against Milton Keynes Breakers 2 on Saturday 19th October at 12:30pm.

Cheshire Phoenix White 84-41 Manchester Magic U14 2

Manchester Magic U14 2 opened their season with an away loss against Cheshire Phoenix White on Saturday afternoon to move to 0-1 in the North West 1 League.

Up next for Magic U14 2 is a home game against Cheshire Wire on Sunday 20th October at 1:15pm.

Manchester Magic U14 3 60–59 Manchester Kings

Manchester Magic U14 3 opened their season with a home win against Manchester Kings on Saturday afternoon to move to 1-0 in the North West Dee League.

Up next for Magic U14 3 is an away game against Barrow Thorns on Sunday 3rd November at 2:00pm.

Sunday 6th October

Manchester Magic D2 81–21 Cheshire Wire – National Cup Round 2

Manchester Magic D2 advanced to the third round of the National Cup after a home win against Cheshire Wire on Sunday afternoon.

Magic were led by Eligin Govan 14 points, 4 rebounds, with support from Sion Gordon 12 points, 5 rebounds, an assist, a steal and a block, Fortune Iguma 11 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals, Ethan Tucker 11 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists and a steal, Matthew Williamson 9 points, 4 rebounds and an assist and Joshua Kubacki 8 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists and 3 steals.  

Up next for Magic D2 is a home game against Cardiff Met Archers on Saturday 12th October at 5:30pm.

Manchester Magic U18 77-65 Myerscough

Manchester Magic U18 moved to 1-1 in the Premier North after a home win against Myerscough on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U18 is an away game against Manchester Kings on Sunday 13th October at TBC in the National Cup.

Charnwood College Riders 35-63 Manchester Mystics U18

Manchester Mystics U18 moved to 2-0 in the Premier North after an away win against Charnwood College Riders on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U18 is a home game against The Sheffield College on Thursday 10th October at 8:15pm in the National Cup. Followed by an away game against in-house rivals Trafford Mystics on Monday 14th October at 6:15pm.

Manchester Magic U16 95–73 York Eagles 1

Manchester Magic U16 moved to 2-0 in the Premier North after a home win against York Eagles 1 on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Magic U16 is an away game against Manchester Giants on Saturday 12th October at 1:00pm, followed by an away game against Stockport Falcons Green on Sunday 13th October at 2:00pm in the National Cup.

Trafford Magic U16 86–62 Derby Trailblazers

Trafford Magic U16 moved to 2-0 in the Premier North after a home win against Derby Trailblazers on Sunday afternoon

Up next for Trafford U16 is an away game against City of Leeds Gold on Saturday 12th October at 11:00am.

Manchester Mystics U16 111–40 Newcastle Eagles

Manchester Mystics U16 moved to 2-0 in the Premier North after a home win against Newcastle Eagles on Sunday afternoon.

Up next for Mystics U16 is an away game against City of Birmingham Rockets on Saturday 12th October at 12:20pm.

Stockport Lapwings 76–46 Manchester Mystics U14 2

Manchester Mystics U14 2 opened their season with an away loss against Stockport Lapwings on Sunday morning to move to 0-1 in the North 1 League.

Up next for Mystics U14 2 is a home game against Sheffield Hatters on Sunday 20th October at 1:15pm.

Stockport Falcons 35–90 Manchester Magic U12

Manchester Magic U12 opened their season with an away win against Stockport Falcons on Sunday afternoon to move to 1-0 in the North West Irwell.

Up next for Magic U12 is a home game against Tameside Vikings on Sunday 20th October at 3:30pm.