The Essex Rebels, on the women’s side of the British Basketball League, have appointed Ashley Cookson as their new head coach.
Cookson spent three years as a coach and scout with GB Basketball and most recently worked in Canada.
In addition to his role as head coach, he will also be responsible for performance basketball at the University of Essex.
The Rebels, who drew more than 1,500 fans in a game against Leicester Riders in March, finished sixth in the WBBL rankings.
Cookson replaces Tom Sadler, who left the club in January to go abroad.
“The talent, infrastructure and support here are unique in the WBBL and the University is really leading the way in the development of the sport,” said the 33-year-old.
“The team is in a great place and I’m looking to build on that and make an immediate impact.”
He added: “I’m a huge fan of the WBBL and have wanted to get into this league for some time after following it while I was overseas.
“It’s an opportunity for me to show what I can do, and I can’t wait to get started.”
