It’s a huge clash on the road for Manchester Giants Women this weekend as they travel to Essex Rebels in the semi-final of the Betty Codona Trophy.

After a fantastic performance which saw them overcome Nottingham Wildcats last Sunday, Marg Jones’ side will now have the chance to advance through to the Betty Codona Trophy final on January 28 at Birmingham’s Utilita Arena.

To achieve this, however, they will first need to beat an in-form Essex Rebels on their own turf, but it’s a challenge that the Giants players will be relishing as they look to put women’s basketball back on the map in Manchester.

Below, we’ve compiled everything you need to know ahead of the weekend’s fixtures.

‍Current form

The Giants have made a perfect start to 2024, winning both opening fixtures in the Betty Codona Trophy in convincing fashion.

After beating Cardiff Met Archers 82-68 in the first round, they swept aside Nottingham Wildcats at the NBPC, running out a 98-69 scoreline, with performances from players such as Idil Turk - who posted 35 points - only exacerbating their dominance so far in the Trophy.

Coach Marg Jones will be gearing her players up for an even bigger challenge as they prepare to do battle with Essex Rebels.

The Rebels have picked up five wins from their previous eight outings, with one of those being the 87-76 victory over the Giants back in December.

With a chance at revenge and a final on the cards, it proves to be an intriguing encounter between the two sides at the Essex Sports Arena.

‍How to watch the game live

Saturday’s Betty Codona Trophy semi-final fixture at the Essex Sports Arena has a tip-off time of 4:00pm and will be broadcast live on YouTube.

‍Ticket information: Essex Rebels (A)

If you are travelling to Colchester on Saturday, match tickets are available to buy online, priced as follows:

• Adults: £6
• Children (under 18): £2
• Family (2 adults & 1 child): £12
• Family (2 adults & 2 children): £13
• Family (2 adults & 3 children): £14

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