WITH the governing body of the British Basketball League ceasing to operate in July 2024, good news has been hard to come by for basketball fans in the United Kingdom.
However, in September 2025, the British government announced a deal alongside the NBA to begin to develop the sport across the pond.
The government announced plans to invest £5 million into basketball facilities in Britain, while the NBA pledged an additional $5 million to support the sport’s grassroots development until 2028.
Solent men’s player Freddie Herbert hopes for an increase in facilities nationwide.
“The running joke is that with a UK basketball court, you can never get one and if you do, there are not the best facilities.”
Alongside the new investments, the NBA is reportedly also set to announce a European League, which will begin in 2028, featuring teams from across Europe.
In Britain, Manchester City and Liverpool will reportedly be the flag-bearers, while European giants such as Barcelona, Inter Milan, and AC Milan are all reportedly ready to swap the penalty spot for the free throw line.
For English Division One player Gregoire Durand, the NBA’s potential expansion to Europe gives him more motivation.
“The NBA, that’s a dream that I have had since 9-years-old. I aiming for the highest level possible, and when things arise like that right on your doorstep – it gives you that extra motivation.”
With just four British players currently in the NBA, the foundations have been laid, and the future is beginning to look bright.
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