MADRID (Liga Femenina/FIBA World Championship for Women) - Laura Nicholls wrapped up an excellent individual season and showed why she will be a standout player in the paint for Spain at the FIBA World Championship for Women by taking Rivas Ecopolis to a maiden Liga Femenina championship.

The fiesta on the outskirts of the Spanish capital has barely subsided after a fresh name was inscribed onto the precious silverware and added to the list of clubs who have now been crowed champions of Spain.

It was Nicholls who proved to be the inspirational figure as Rivas built on their impressive road victory in Salamanca to clinch a series deciding and dramatic 62-59 home win against regular season winners and favourites, Perfumerias Avenida.

Nicholls continued her hot form down the season stretch to rack up a game-winning double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds, as Rivas gained sweet revenge for their controversial Copa De La Reina loss to their rivals and also being pipped to the championship last season.

In a thrilling finale, it was Louice Halvarsson who effectively made the game safe after pulling down a huge offensive rebound in the closing seconds to deny Avenida a shot at forcing overtime.

It was also a particularly sweet moment for former national team boss Jose Hernandez. Born and raised in Salamanca, he spent the bulk of his career with Avenida, but has now written his name into Spanish women's basketball history with Rivas.

There was also some positive news for current Spanish senior team play-caller Lucas Mondelo, with versatile guard Queralt Casas back from her broken finger and having played a full part in helping attain what is a landmark success.

"I am still getting used to the idea of what we have got and thank the team, coaching staff and fans - this has been a great season and a pleasure," said Casas in the wake of the victory.

"Our home court was amazing to see so full and willing us to winn.

"The support from the fans gave me goosebumps," she added.

And, once the euphoria has finally subsided, both Casas and Nicholls will be hoping they are back on the Spanish roster for Turkey and able to add to the glorious EuroBasket Women gold medal they won last year.

FIBA