Accolade for Riders forward Peeples
LEICESTER Riders’ Rayven Peeples has been named in the Women’s BBL Defensive Team of the Year, writes Charlie Walker.
The 6ft 3in US forward rookie, right, ranked fourth among all players in blocks per game (1.4) and second in rebounds per game (11), leading the club in both categories.
Peeples logged six games with multiple blocked shots this season, including a season-high four blocks to go with 18 points and 13 rebounds against Cardiff Met Archers in February.
She also recorded 12 games with double-digit rebounds, and a season-high of 18.
Her average in blocks was a career-high for Peeples, bettering any of her three seasons at St John’s University and her single season at North Carolina A&T State University.
“Being selected to the defensive team of the year is a major accomplishment for me,” said Peeples.
“My game has always been driven by my play on both ends of the floor, and I have always taken pride in being a great defender.
“Thank you to my coaching staff and team-mates for putting me in a position to succeed.”
Riders head coach Ben Stanley said: “Rayven has been an anchor for us on the defensive end all season.
“She’s not only defended her position but been great in switches and rotations as well as meeting the challenge to dominate on the defensive glass.
“We wouldn’t be where we are without her contribution at both ends of the floor.”
Leicester Riders managing director Russell Levenston said: “Rayven has been an outstanding performer and she deserves to be recognised for her efforts on the defensive side of the floor.”