THE British Basketball League could be heading back to south-east Essex after Leopards announced they will apply for a franchise for next season.

Leopards, who play their matches in Brentwood and Basildon, have played in the English Basketball League since 2004.

But they now feel ready to make the step up.

“It gives me great pleasure to announce we are actively looking to join the BBL for next season” said Leopards chairman Fred Dicker.

“This is a very big step for our club but although it has taken time it has been our aim since our formation.

“The application process is not an easy one but I believe we have quality personnel at the club to make a successful bid.

“However, we need to put in place a management team that will provide the skills required to run a BBL franchise with a desire to be competitive in our first season.”

Leopards have established themselves as a strong side in the EBL.

And they superbly saw off the previously unbeaten league leaders Bristol Academy Flyers 91-87 in an exciting encounter on Sunday.

Vernon Teel and Ousman Krubally both bagged 25 points for Leopards who have also confirmed Gareth Roberts as their first managing director.

The Big Cats are now looking for sponsors and partners to help take the club into the BBL and expect to make an announcement as to whether their franchise application has been approved next March.

The region has been without a BBL team since the Southend based Essex Pirates folded at the start of this season.

Pirates had two campaigns in the league but were unable to continue due to a lack of funds.

>Leopards will be hoping for another EBL triumph when they travel to Medway Park Crusaders on Saturday.

And they also will looking for a repeat of their 103-92 National Trophy victory in early October.

The Kent side, who include former Leopards Sam Salter and Gareth Laws in their squad, are currently level with Leopards in eighth place with both sides having won once in four league games this season.

Crusaders have signed Adrian Fenyn, who pipped Leopards’ Krubally to the Division One Most Valuable Player award last season, but they have struggled in their first term in the top flight with just one win in nine games.