LEE Chapel Primary School’s basketball stars are celebrating a slam-dunking success after being crowned county champions for the second year in succession.

The Basildon-based youngsters had already won the district competition before heading to the county finals at the University of Essex.

And the school’s coach Jake De Freitas was thrilled to see the team, known as the Lions, regain their county crown.

“The school, parents and teachers are immensely proud of all the children that took part in this incredible journey,” said De Freitas.

“Special mentions go to Giovanni Ikorha and Brume Okuku for captaining the team and always leading by example.

“Logan Robinson and Maya Worika battled hard for every point and every rebound. Demi Akiode, Holly Swindell, Mia Crowhurst and Freja Mardner were always pushing themselves in every game.

“Titan Harris, Grace Gill and Evan Belcher showed hustle and determination.

“Reggie Morris was outstanding throughout and the MVP for the team on the day.

“They will all go down in the Lee Chapel Primary School history book and be seen as legends among their peers for years to come.”

Lee Chapel hit the ground running with a 14-2 win against Grove Wood but nerves were evident in the next game of the group after losing to an aggressive and physical Thameside team 10-2.

The final game gave the Lions the chance to redeem themselves and secure a place in the Super 8’s, which they did with a 24-10 win against Buttsbury.

After that, the Lions looked rejuvenated and beat Grove Wood for a second time, winning 12-2.

The second game of the Super 8’s proved a much tougher test as they drew 10-10 with Earls Hall before the final game produced a massive 28-2 victory for the young Lions over Chalkwell Primary.

After an apprehensive wait, the Lions discovered that they would face Holy Family in their semi-final match-up - a team that looked extremely confident and well managed throughout.

However, the young Lions had stepped up their game, were equal to their strength and ability and ran out 16-2 winners.

The final game of the day saw the Lions line-up against the team that they could only draw against in the Super 8’s, Earls Hall.

Despite a nervous start, the Lions were able to take control of the game, putting the pressure on their rivals early on.

Earls Hall tried their hardest to battle back but met a brick wall in the shape of the Lee Chapel defence, who were not going to be knocked down this time.

And a stunning display of skill and teamwork saw the Lions rip through their opponents, winning 18-0.