Samit Nuruzade

The “outstanding contributions” of a basketball team’s head coach has earned them a nomination for Putting Reading on the Map, sponsored by The Purple Turtle and Jacobs the Jewellers.

Reading Rockets coach, Samit Nuruzade, has been nominated in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the town’s national sporting reputation.

Since returning to lead the Rockets, Samit has transformed the team into a dominant force, bringing unprecedented success and silverware to Reading.

“Under Samit’s visionary leadership, the Rockets have achieved a historic clean sweep of national honours,” said the nominator. “His tactical expertise and dedication led the team to victory in the 2024–25 National Cup, the KitKing Trophy and the Play-Off Final. Most notably, he secured the British Championship Basketball (BCB) Men 2025–26 title, firmly establishing Reading as a leading destination for basketball in the UK.”

Samit’s achievements have also been recognised individually, earning the BCB Coach of the Month award for March.

Beyond the court, his impact has been significant. By consistently overcoming major city rivals and bringing national titles back to Reading, he has helped raise the town’s profile on a regional and national stage.

“He has boosted local pride and inspired a new generation of young athletes,” the nominator added, highlighting his wider influence within the community.”

“Samit Nuruzade does more than just coach; he serves as a world-class ambassador for Reading. His commitment to excellence and his remarkable string of national titles make him the embodiment of someone truly "Putting Reading on the Map." He has proven that with passion and dedication, Reading can lead the way on the national stage.”