The Highs and Lows of playing Basketball in England

The United Kingdom is known for its football prowess, with the EPL being the world’s biggest football league, while other sports, like in most football nations, don’t attract as much attention. Nonetheless, it baffles me that basketball takes a back seat to certain sports in the country. But what matters now is its steady rise and honestly, I just wanna hoop.

Signing with a new team was a top priority for me last summer, and I pretty much exhausted every one of my options at the time, from traveling to random scrimmages and open tryouts to playing in various tournaments. I didn’t get the deal I wanted but hey, I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue playing at a top level.

PC: @v.i.png (IG)

MVP at ZimUK Tournament, Luton

WCBT 2022

First 3x3 Tourney - GG3x3

League duties - Kent Tigers

My Summer escapades in 5 frames

I presently play in the NBL, which ranks below the British Basketball League, the country’s top competition, and it’s been an interesting experience so far. Hooping away from home comes with its baggage, and not everyone’s ready when reality sets in. Don’t get me wrong — it’s not horrible, but there will always be shadows behind the sunshine.

NBL Greenwich Titans (Count it ;) )

Let’s start with the good part

The Highs

• Multiple divisions and leagues

One good thing about English basketball is its structure. There are a plethora of leagues where players can secure a spot based on their situation and what they hope to achieve. Immigrants like myself are not excluded — it is simply about finding the right fit.

• These hoopers are HOOPERS!

The level of play is quite high. Talent? Definitely in the running with the finest. The leagues continue to draw foreign talent with unique playing styles, creating a healthy mix that elevates the quality of the game at all levels. Also, having teams consistently compete in European events such as the EuroCup raises the bar.

• Do you speak English?

If you’re a player who speaks English and wants to play in a competitive league outside the US, the UK may be the ideal spot for you

• Fast-growing presence

It still amazes me that Basketball isn’t ranked top 10 popular sports in the UK, but that’s about to change with the initiatives created by various organizations and individuals in the community. Over the years, social media platforms have played a vital role in creating awareness, building relationships, and exposing the public to the sport. It’s only a matter of time till we crack those rankings.

The Lows

• Just get a car

Traveling around the UK, especially without private transport is stressful. In lower divisions and leagues, players are tasked with getting their transportation on game days. Tough luck if you fall into that situation because those bus/train rides can be stressful.

• The paychecks don’t always check out

I heard someone say “you can’t make money playing basketball here” and I was like “HERE TOOOO?”

Although that statement isn’t entirely true, you have to play at the BBL level to earn a decent salary. The NBL/WNBL doesn’t generate enough revenue for players to live solely off their pay, however, this varies from team to team.

• Access to facilities

Securing a gym to practice is like finding Nemo unless your team has a court dedicated to them, which is rarely the case. Most courts in the country are owned by schools or leisure centers, so as an athlete trying to have personal sessions, it is a struggle. First, you have to search for courts nearby and make arrangements beforehand, pay for the available time slots that cost quite a lot, and then hope nothing happens that forces you to reschedule.

To each his own and to every flaw, a blessing. Playing basketball here can serve as a springboard to your next destination or you can choose to ride it out into the sunset. I can at least guarantee that the carnivals are turnt and those jerk chickens be popping.