2018 came to an end over the weekend, while 2019 is already off to a flying start with a thrilling encounter on Tuesday rounding out the week's action.
Quincy Taylor set a new BBL season-high with 42 points to lead Surrey Scorchers to a thrilling 93-91 success over London City Royals to open 2019. The home side start the New Year with their third league win as they hope to spark a winning run.
Plymouth Raiders wrapped up a perfect month with two more home wins. Paul James' side defeated Surrey Scorchers 115-100 as Rashad Hassan put up 31 points and Donte Nicholas neared a triple-double before they saw off Bristol Flyers, 86-74 to advance in the BBL Trophy.
Esh Group Eagles Newcastle moved back up into third with a 69-76 triumph away at Leicester Riders, who suffered their third league loss. Rahmon Fletcher top scored with 18 points and hit the dagger three in the final minute.
Manchester Giants finished 2018 on a high after a dominant 72-101 victory away at DBL Sharks Sheffield. Willie Clayton posted 13 points, 20 rebounds and 7 assists to follow a 29-23 double-double in a tough 75-83 loss at home to London Lions, who finished the year top at 12-2.
"I thought it was a great all-round team effort for the entire game," said Mike McCall on the win against Sheffield.
"If we continue to build and play the way we did, we will be dangerous. We are very excited heading into the New Year, especially off the back of a great win in Sheffield."
Meanwhile, Sheffield had returned to winning ways with a hard-fought 85-94 win in overtime against Radisson RED Glasgow Rocks behind 24 points and 10 rebounds from Chris Alexander.
London City had also enjoyed a winning end to 2018 as they defeated Worcester Wolves 75-91 with Matthew Bryan-Amaning netting 20 points in the victory.
