A Sheffield basketball team which was only formed when lockdown ended has clinched the division three title with games to spare.

In the three seasons since its founding, the Crookes Cyclones have climbed through the lower divisions of the Sheffield Basketball League. They currently hold the first position in the third division.

Ben Rees, captain and founder, said: “⁠Thus far I think it’s fair to say this has been our most successful season so far.

“We sit top of the table at eight wins and zero losses with two games to go, meaning we have clinched the league title. It feels like we worked for it and we’ve grown as a team in the process.”

The team was founded by Ben after Lockdown restrictions eased in 2021. Its initial aim was to create a supportive space for people to play basketball while building lasting relationships.

He said: “I would say our greatest achievement of the last three seasons is to create a supportive space for basketball. We’ve managed to get a really great bunch together, therefore attracting others to enjoy playing basketball.”

Miles Ellis, 21, guard for the Cyclones who joined in the 23/24 season, said: “I might be a little biased since this is my first season, but this season has got to be our best one yet. Undefeated and locked in as number one in division three. It’s all coming together.”

The Cyclones hold an open session on Wednesdays where anyone of any ability can join them and play some basketball.

Ben said: “It’s a great way of meeting new people in basketball, plus it really expands the club beyond solely those playing in our league team, as whilst we might not be able to facilitate a second team yet, the social Wednesday sessions are a great substitute.”

Miles said: “Our Wednesday sessions are actually how I first found the team. It’s an open session that you pay £6 to come along.

“We get a huge variety of hoopers coming down and the vibe is just chill, everyone is enjoying the basketball.”