Birmingham Rockets are delighted to confirm the return of men’s first team captain Martyn Gayle for the 2024/25 National Basketball League (NBL) Division One season.
The all-time three-point leader in NBL Division One becomes the first addition to Coach Charles Smith’s roster as he returns to Rockets for a third consecutive season.
The story so far…
After playing for Rockets as a junior, Martyn returned to the club in the summer of 2022 ahead of our historic promotion-winning campaign and stood in as player/coach as the team captured the NBL Division Two North title, before winning the Division Two Playoffs at the National Basketball Performance Centre in Manchester.
He finished the season with the playoff finals MVP and the 2022/23 Division Two Coach of the Year award on the back of a stellar campaign, with Rockets sweeping all before them en-route to promotion to NBL Division One.
Last season, our first ever year in NBL Division One, saw the team consolidate in the league – narrowly missing out on the post-season playoffs despite a late uptick in form towards the end of the season.
Martyn’s influence on the team remained as he continued to be one of the team’s talismanic figures – a crucial role as the squad faced periods of inconsistency on the court as the group adapted to the higher level of play after promotion.
Reunited with a familiar face…
Martyn is no stranger to new Head Coach Charles Smith, with the pair having previously worked together during their time at Team Newcastle.
Speaking ahead of his return, Martyn spoke of his excitement at Coach Smith’s appointment and believes he is the right man to take the team forward.
He said: “I’m excited to be back as captain and am ready to lead the team again.
“We’ve got a strong group, and I’m looking forward to building on what we accomplished last season. I can’t wait to get back on the court and get to work.
“Coach Charles is a great guy,” he continued.
“His wealth of knowledge will definitely help us achieve great things as a club!”
Martyn in the media…
A word from Rockets CEO, Robert Palmer…
Rockets CEO, Robert Palmer, is delighted to see Martyn return to Rockets and spoke of the continued impact he hopes Martyn can make in 2024/25.
He said, “We are delighted welcome Martyn back for the season ahead.
“His unrivalled and undeniable shooting consistency gives the team a reliable threat from the perimeter.
“Martyn is one of the faces of Birmingham basketball and wears his Rockets jersey with the utmost pride.
“I am sure all Rockets fans will be as pleased as I am to see him in our colours for the forthcoming season.
“We have several exciting roster announcements to make ahead of the new season as we look to continue our growth and performance levels in NBL Division One.”
We are delighted to welcome Martyn back to Rockets for a third season and we look forward to seeing him back out on the court in 2024/25!
Click here to explore the season schedule and get your tickets for the 2024/25 season today…
