Essex Leopards to remain in English Basketball League

The newly-named Essex Leopards will play in the top flight of the English Basketball League next season.

But the club, who changed their name from the London Leopards earlier this month, are "quietly confident" they'll play in the BBL in 2013/14.

It means the Leopards will defend the three trophies they won last season.

Managing director Gareth Roberts said: "The decision to remain in the EBL is the right one for the long term sustainability of the Leopards."

He continued: "We are continuing to work with the BBL and hope to be able confirm our position for the 2013/14 season shortly."

The club, who play their home matches in Basildon and Brentwood, stormed to the league, cup and play-off titles last season.

They changed their name from the London Leopards because of their home venues and community work in the county of Essex.