The Essex Rebels have commenced their summer business by welcoming back Claire Paxton, who returning for her third season with the club.
Standing at 6’2″, the 28-year-old forward from Edinburgh, Scotland has become a mainstay of the Essex Rebels team since joining the club in 2021 and has continued her standout career as one of the league’s most consistent performers. Paxton achieved the impressive accolade of surpassing 1000 Championship points earlier this year.
Off the back of representing Scotland in the Commonwealth Games as a member of the 3×3 team last summer, Claire made another significant contribution to the Rebels stat-line last season, averaging an impressive 9.3 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game, playing all 22 Championship fixtures.
After helping the programme secure its first-ever BUCS national championship in the 21/22 season, Claire narrowly missed out on repeating this feat last season after losing to Loughborough Riders 74-60 at the national championship finals in Nottingham.
Claire brings an incredible presence to the court and has become known in the league for her iconic fadeway jump shot, earning her the nickname of ‘Fadeaway Queen’ amongst Rebels fans. Claire’s leadership skills will play a huge part in the upcoming season as Essex Rebels look to improve on their 6th place finish from last year.
Looking forward to her third season with the Rebels, Paxton said:
“I’m excited to get back on court and I’m looking to working with Ash and the team. I love the direction that Essex Rebels are taking on and off the court, so it was an easy decision to stay for another season”
Head of Basketball Performance, Ashley Cookson, added:
“Claire has been an impactful player in the WBBL for a number of years now, making improvements to her game each season. Her ability to score the ball and stretch to the 3-point line makes her a tough matchup around the league. Claire is incredibly invested in the Rebels programme and carries an infectious energy with her in all her interactions around the club. I’m extremely excited to coach Claire this season”