Since the announcement of a new professional league in British Basketball, the club consortia have been working diligently to ensure the launch of a new season by the end of August 2024.
To that end we expect to make several key announcements that will satisfy the fanbase up and down the country that a return to topflight basketball is in hand.
It is expected that the new league name will be announced in the coming days and that will be followed by some exciting news on how the league will operate and commercial partnerships as soon as the details are completed.
Further to this, communication will come regarding the direction of the league, the 2024/2025 season, the number of franchises and our new media deal.
As clubs begin to announce new signings, further developments include the commitment to move forward with a strategic growth plan which has been agreed by all parties. The overall desire is to grow the league and the sport commercially and will result in increased franchise areas over a medium-term period.
This new season will not only see the return to elite basketball but a return to European competition for many of our teams with plans to expand that participation in the season to follow.
The club consortia appreciate the patience of their fans during this difficult process, but we look forward to rewarding all with an exciting season ahead.
“Whatever I can do to support the city I’m ready to do”- Get to know Leicester Riders’ new signing Ethan Wright
Ethan Wright grew up with basketball. As much as he found the game, the game found him.
His mother, Ellen, is one of the greatest players in Princeton University history, and ended her four-year career as the school’s second-leading scorer.
A four-time All-Ivy performer, she netted 430 points during the 1983-84 season, the best ever at the time. She currently sits second in program history in rebounds and blocks, and holds the single-game record for blocks in a game with nine.
Ellen was Wright’s coach until eighth grade, but never forced the game onto him.
“She wasn’t the type of parent to beg you to work out or force you into the gym, but she let me know that if I wanted to have success I had to work for it. She gave me all the help and resources I needed, and having a mum who had been through the entire college process was really helpful for me. She’s my biggest basketball resource.”
He quickly followed in her footsteps, declaring for Princeton in 2018.
Playing alongside British forward Tosan Evbuomwan, now of the Detroit Pistons in the NBA, Wright helped the Tigers to a 23-7 record in 2022, winning the Ivy League regular season.
It was the school’s best season since 2017, coming back with a bang after the COVID 19 pandemic saw the cancellation of Ivy League play.
As it did for many student athletes, COVID ripped Wright away from the game, making workouts near-impossible for months on end.
But absence makes the heart grow fonder, and that was certainly the case for Wright’s love of the game coming back from the season-long hiatus.
“It made me fall in love with basketball again,” said Wright, reflecting on his cancelled year at Princeton.
“We hadn’t played for a year and we were dying to get out there. For six months I couldn’t even work out. College basketball is a grind, and it gave me a halftime break to let me miss the game.”
British fans will be familiar with Evbuomwan, who came through the Newcastle Eagles’ youth system.
“Tosan was so fun to play with. He was pretty much our point guard, even as a big, so we ran the offence through him. We had one of the best offences in the country, and I was playing with my best friends who I’d played with for four years.
PIVOTAL PERFORMANCE. @PrincetonMBB grabs a pivotal 81-75 decision at Yale to move into a tie for first place in the standings. Tosan Evbuomwan and Ethan Wright combined for 49 points to pace the Tigers. 🌿🏀 pic.twitter.com/emal9JY0Kg
“That year was the most fun I’ve had playing basketball.”
Rookie in Romania
After playing out his graduation year for the University of Colorado, Wright’s post-college career started in Romania with CSM Târgu Jiu last season. It was his first time leaving North America, and a big adjustment, as it is for any American rookie playing in Europe.
But he adapted quickly to the new environment, and the new challenge of going up against professionals for the first time.
“It’s definitely a learning curve. You’re no longer going up against kids, for one. In Romania there’s great players who are talented and athletic, and while that talent and athleticism was there in college too, the speed of the game in the pros is quicker.
“The shot clock is shorter, and guys are grown men who are really physical. There’s a lot of really experienced players who don’t make the same mistakes you see in college.
“But you have to have confidence in yourself. If you go to a pro team and you don’t have that self belief and competitiveness then it’s going to be difficult for you. I learned a lot from my rookie year.”
Similarly, life off the court presents challenges for rookies.
“We were in a very rural area in Romania, where there are very few Americans, or even English speaking people. If you don’t get along with your teammates it would have been very isolating. It’s important for your own life and the team’s success that you’re together.”
That’s something that has always come naturally to Wright. In his final collegiate year, Colorado awarded him the Stephen Tebo Family P.A.S.S. Award, for being the player who best exemplified the virtues of Perseverance, Attitude, Selflessness and Success.
The award is a testament to his off-court character and leadership, not only in that season, but throughout his basketball life.
“I’ve always tried to be a good locker room guy. I don’t think I have a big ego at all, and I try to be someone who is fun to be around. With that team at Colorado, there were a lot of young guys who were dealing with things that I’d already gone through. I felt like someone they could go to for advice and talk to when they needed to. I try to do that wherever I am.”
Landing in Leicester
Wright is ready to bring that off-court attitude to the Riders this season, along with his on-court talents.
He put up 11.7 points in 23.7 minutes per game in Romania, logging 3.6 assists and 1.2 steals per outing.
“I think I bring shooting as my best attribute, but I can also attack the rim and make plays. I showed a lot of different things last year, and now that I have that overseas experience I feel a lot more comfortable as a pro.
“I do a lot on defence and with my rebounding, and I’m going to go in and try to be a spark plug for the team. I’m a versatile player, so however Coach sees my role in the team I can adapt to.”
While it’s his first venture into the UK, Wright is itching to embrace the culture of the country and the city upon his arrival.
“I’m really excited to get to the UK. I’m especially excited about getting the chance to go to a Leicester City game! I played football for a while, and I’ve always loved watching the game. I can’t wait to immerse myself in the culture, get to know what the city and the country is like.
“I’m looking forward to eating the food. I hear Leicester has one of the biggest Indian populations in the country so I’m enthusiastic about engaging with that community and culture too.
“I’m honoured to be signing in a city with such incredible sporting heritage. Everything I hear about the club is the fans are great, and they support the club passionately, so that’s really cool.
“The city really loves sport, and that makes me really excited to interact with fans, hang out in the community and get to know people. We need the fans’ support, so whatever I can do to support the city and support them back I’m ready to do.
“If you’re a fan, don’t be a stranger! I’m excited to meet everybody!”
Leicester Riders today announce the signing of American guard Ethan Wright for the 2024-25 season.
Wright signs following his first professional season in Romania, where he suited up for CSM Târgu Jiu. He averaged 12.1 points on 45/37/90 shooting splits, and pulled down 3.1 rebounds per game.
Prior to his rookie year, the Massachusetts native played four seasons of NCAA D1 basketball, initially for Princeton University alongside British forward Tosan Evbuomwan, currently of the Detroit Pistons in the NBA.
Wright helped lead the Tigers to the 2022 Ivy League regular season championship. He was named to the 2022 All-Ivy League and National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Second Team, and was three-time Ivy League Player of the Week in the 2021-22 season. Wright was also named to the NABC Honours Court in 2022.
In Wright’s final year in Princeton, he was his team’s third leading scorer with 14.7 points per game. His 50% shooting from the field and 39.5% shooting from three ranked third in his conference, and his 6.9 rebounds per game was fourth best among all Ivy League players.
His final collegiate season was spent at the University of Colorado for the Buffaloes. Wright was one of four Buffs to feature in all 35 games, and ranked third on the team in three-pointers made with 29, while hitting 34.9% beyond the arc.
Wright commented: “It feels great to sign in Leicester. I’m really excited to be a part of a club and city with so much sporting history, and my goal is to be a big part of continuing that history.
“I’ve always wanted to visit the UK, so it is a dream come true to be able to play for Leicester. I’m ready to do whatever it takes to succeed as a group and I can’t wait to get started!”
Wright is Head Coach Rob Paternostro’s second American signing ahead of the 2024-25 season, following the addition of Jaylin Hunter last week.
He commented: “Ethan is someone we feel fortunate to pick up. He has one year of pro experience in Romania already, and we’re impressed by his all around play. He plays on both ends with intelligence, and we feel he will fit into our programme very well.
“When you look back at his career so far, he’s a very effective shooter, but there’s more to his game than that. He has good athleticism and a great IQ and feel for the game.”
Leicester Riders announce Rob Jarram as Head of Foundation and Performance Pathway
Leicester Riders are thrilled to introduce Rob Jarram as the new Head of Leicester Riders Foundation and Performance Pathway.
Rob’s role will encompass not only continuing the Foundation’s invaluable charitable efforts throughout Leicestershire, but also allocating resources and attention to the Academy pathway, fostering the growth of youth basketball in the region.
This appointment underscores the Club’s dedication to developing its youth pathway system. Its connections with Loughborough University, Charnwood College, and its Foundation’s Academy are essential not only for the Club’s future successes, but also for the sustained development of British basketball.
Through its collaborations with local schools and basketball clubs, the Academy plays a crucial role in making the sport accessible to hundreds of children, thereby fostering inclusivity and encouraging participation in basketball.
Rob’s background in sport, particularly his ten years at Loughborough College primarily as Sports Development Manager, make him ideally suited to propel the Academy to the next level of player development.
In the past, his company, Everymind Performance, has collaborated with Leicester Riders, Charnwood, and Loughborough players to enhance their performance and development both on and off the court.
Everymind Performances’ contribution was pivotal in achieving the Club’s mission of not only elevating the on-court performance of players in its youth system, but also equipping them with the necessary tools for a successful transition into adult life.
Rob has familial ties to the Riders. His brother, Mark Jarram, served as Head Coach of Loughborough University Riders for eight seasons. Rob looks to continue his brother’s legacy of player development in Leicestershire through working with the Leicester Riders Foundation’s pathway.
Jarram commented: “Leicester Riders, by work or by leisure, has been part of my life since I was 14 years old. I’m extremely excited to be leading areas of the club that make a huge impact to so many young people and adults.
“I want to continue to build on the strengths within our Foundation and Performance Programmes as well as expand our provision and standards of delivery.
“Ultimately, it’s all about our community, as a club and as a sport, and the future of British Basketball.”
Leicester Riders are happy to confirm the retention of Blake Bowman ahead of the 2024-25 season.
The British forward will take to the floor for his third season with the Club, having signed a multi-year deal last summer.
High-flying Bowman made big contributions throughout last year, leading the Riders with 15 points against the Caledonia Gladiators in October. He’s a mainstay on the highlight reel with his play above the rim, and a constant fastbreak threat for opponents.
Bowman will suit up for the Riders while competing for Loughborough University, where he also enters his third year. Bowman has won back-to-back BUCS championships with Loughborough, winning MVP in the Final last season.
The Club would like to thank the University for its continued support.
“I’m super excited to get back going with the Riders,” said Bowman. “I’m looking forward to the grind of the season and getting back out there in front of our fans.
“After a successful BUCS season, we had some key guys graduate, but were hungrier than ever to get another national championship for Loughborough.”
Head Coach Rob Paternostro commented: “We are happy to have Blake back with us. He is a player that is continually improving and we expect big things from him next season.
“Blake has two BBL seasons under his belt and has gained good experience playing in our league. I’ve been really impressed with the work that he has put in this summer- he is motivated to have a great season.”
Leicester Riders Basketball Club today announced the signing of American Jaylin Hunter for the 2024/25 season.
Hunter, a 6’0” guard, will suit up for his rookie season in professional basketball having spent his final two collegiate years at the Ohio University.
He averaged 14 points, 4.9 assists and 4.4 rebounds for the Bobcats in 2023/24, and was named Second Team All-Conference after finishing the year as the MAC assists leader.
The Connecticut native helped Ohio to the MAC Championship semi-finals last season, scoring 17 points in the final four.
Before the University of Ohio, Hunter spent three seasons at Old Dominion University, captaining the team in 2021/22. Starting all 32 games for the Monarchs, he averaged 9.7 points and ranked top 10 in the Sun Belt Conference in assists, steals, assist-to-turnover ratio and minutes played.
Hunter commented: “I’m excited to get to Leicester and join my teammates and the fans to get working on a successful season! I’m thrilled for this opportunity and can’t wait to get started with the Riders!”
Hunter becomes Head Coach Rob Paternostro’s first American signing of the offseason, and is the second addition to the Riders’ 2024-25 roster following the announcement of the re-signing of club legend Conner Washington on Thursday.
Paternostro commented: “Jaylin is a dynamic guard, with an ability to get to the paint, make plays for his teammates and score in different ways. I’ve been impressed throughout the recruitment process with the positive references on his leadership and ability to be a good teammate.
“I’m excited to work with him. He has the characteristics you want from a point guard, and someone with the ball in his hands. His quickness, strength and shooting range make him a really difficult cover.”
Leicester Riders today announce the re-signing of club legend Conner Washington for the 2024-25 season.
The GB guard returns for his 12th season with the Riders, having won 14 pieces of silverware during his storied tenure with the Club.
After arriving in the East Midlands in 2011, Washington has been featured on the All-British Team of the Year on four occasions and the Defensive Team of the Year three times He is a dangerous perimeter threat, averaging over 40% from behind the arc in three separate seasons.
Paternostro commended: “It’s great to have Conner back. He is a legendary player at the club who has had incredible success in his time with us.
“He has been one the best three point shooters in club and league history, and he continues to be a threat . His experience on the court and in the locker room has always been valuable to our team.”
Washington added: “I’ve been hooping for 20+ years and I still find myself getting nervous before games – it is a true blessing, the hard work never stops! I’m excited to get right back to it!”
Washington’s re-signing also marks the first signing for interim CEO Simon Winfield.
“I’m absolutely delighted that we’ve signed Conner. He’s proven his worth within the Club for a number of years, and is clearly a fan favourite. For him to be out of contract and choose to stay with us again for another season is really exciting.
“It’s important for him to be here, and mentor the new players coming in. Having spoken to Conner he’s really fired up about next year, not only about playing, but also supporting the organisation however he can.”
Statement: Professional Men’s League License Awarded to “Premier Basketball Limited”
The British Basketball Federation (BBF) has today confirmed a three-year license has been awarded to a consortium of British clubs for the professional men’s basketball league in Great Britain.
The BBF revoked the license from Basketball League Limited (the operating company of the BBL) following breaches in the license after the 23/24 Season concluded. The BBF stated it would work with the clubs to try and establish a route for the 24/25 season to go ahead and today confirmed a new license has now been issued.
Chris Grant OBE, Chair of the British Basketball Federation said: “I’m delighted that fans, players, staff and partners can look forward with confidence to the continuation of top-level British club basketball.
“The fact that we’ve been able to move so quickly following the termination of the previous licence is down to the positivity and unity of the clubs, as well as the professionalism and focus of our BBF team and Board.
“The way we’ve worked together bodes well for the ongoing improvement and alignment of our player pathway so that the wealth of British basketball talent can translate to success on the international stage.”
Speaking on behalf of the consortium of clubs, Vaughn Millette, new majority shareholder of Sheffield Sharks, said:
“Since the license was revoked, we (the clubs) have all worked together to sustain the elite professional pathway in the UK. There has been a huge amount of work undertaken in a very short amount of time to enable this to happen.
“We would like to thank Chris Grant and the team at the BBF for working with us to deliver this solution and reassure our fans that a professional basketball league will get underway this September.
“We are pleased that the British Basketball Federation has made the decision to award the men’s professional license to our newly formed operating company “Premier Basketball Limited”. Our fans will appreciate there is a huge amount still to be done and more details will be released shortly – including the fixture schedule for the forthcoming season.”
Premier Basketball Limited has been established by clubs that previously competed in the BBL. The new League name, club line-ups, start date and fixtures will all be announced in the weeks to follow.
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