News History Makers Meet The Record Breakers! 23.01.2025

Collyer’s men’s basketball alumni Alen Durakovic and Zac Holden returned to the Cowley Sports Hall this week to support the current basketball team as they posted a record fifth win in the CBL (College Basketball League) Tier 3 South West with an 85-49 win over leading Welsh side St Davids.

Collyer’s maths teacher and basketball fan, Pater Mattock explained: “Alen and Zac were a key part of the groundbreaking group nicknamed the “History Makers”, who were the first side to compete for Collyer’s at the elite College Basketball League level.”

Coach Dom Evans, regarded by many as one of England’s finest young basketball coaching talents, was thrilled: “It was wonderful of Alen and Zac to take time out before they return to their university basketball commitments to cheer on our current side.”

Two dramatic 3-point buzzer beaters from Anashe Chiware at the end of the first and second quarters triggered a strong second half showing from Collyer’s. The win puts Collyer’s fourth in the CBL Tier 3 South West table after 9 games.

Coach Evans added: “After completing a double over Worthing College in December, it was important that we got straight back down to business after the holiday break. I thought we acquitted ourselves well, with a controlled, focussed, and intense performance against a competitive St David’s team. You could say this record fifth league CBL win means this current side will now be known as the Record Breakers!”

Collyer’s Deputy Principal Steve Martell said: “Zac and Alen are ludicrously talented and remain basketball royalty here at Collyer’s. Coach Evans, the current players, and a packed Cowley crowd gave them a great reception this afternoon. After today’s win, the ‘History Makers’ have now officially met the ‘Record Breakers’!”

The Collyer’s team comprised: Josh Brind, Anashe Chiware, Noah Germain, Denhil Montilla, Malachi Mungwira; Edward Robinson, Alan Roy Paloothanam, Jude Shaw; Tommy Shaw and Dylan Siage.

Photo credit:Thea Parker (Student Ambassador)