The Leicester Riders Foundation (LRF) will host a takeover event at the Leicester Riders game against the Caledonia Gladiators on January 17 to showcase the Leicester Riders’ Junior National Basketball League (JNBL) programme.
The LRF aims to develop young basketball players and inspire future domestic talent, and the JNBL programme provides young people with an introduction to high-performance basketball, and develops essential life skills.
The programme emphasises development in all aspects, including basketball skills, athleticism, and personal growth.
Leicester Riders captain and JNBL ambassador Conner Washington actively supports the LRF’s JNBL team by sharing his 12 years of professional expertise and knowledge with the next generation of local talent.
Conner coaches JNBL sessions weekly and, prior to Friday’s takeover, emphasised the significant impact youth basketball programmes have on the future of the sport in the UK.
“These types of programmes are so important,” said Washington. “When I was coming up, the first structured basketball I was involved in was under 16s. Before that I had to go to the court by myself and play.
“If there was a programme available to me where I could have been developed by coaches and play with kids who were just as excited about basketball as I was when I was younger, I could have improved a lot quicker and given me an interest in the sport at a younger age.”
Representation is essential to inspire a generation of hoopers. It took a visit to Washington’s school in the mid 2000s to invest him in the sport, lighting the spark to what grew into a legendary 12 year pro career.
“My turning point was when a player called Victor Wayne came to a small school in Bedford when I was young. I wasn’t too involved in basketball at the time, but just seeing him coach a session and knowing he played professionally inspired me.
“Just knowing there was a professional basketball player in front of me teaching us stuff was mind blowing to me.”
Payne played in the BBL for Milton Keynes Lions between 2000-2004, winning Most Improved Player in 2002.
Now Washington assumes the role of Payne, inspiring the next generation with the LRF. He aims to be a relatable role model, providing an approachable source of knowledge in basketball and life.
“It’s great to be able to do the same as what was done for me. The kids come down to the games and we talk about them during the sessions, and they’re always asking for advice on their game. It’s great to give back.
“We are the guys these kids look up to, so we want to give back in whichever way we can. It’s our duty as professionals to these kids who we are role models to, and I try to be an open book for them.
“Of course, there’s a lot of responsibility that comes with that. You have to hold yourself to a high standard when you’re working with people who have not experienced the world and basketball like you have. But to be able to relay your experiences in a way that others can understand is really important.
“That’s something I take pride in- giving them an authentic piece of my experience from basketball over the years.
“Above everything, I think it’s big for them to see that I can still enjoy the game, no matter who I’m playing with. Basketball brings people together.”
If you want to get involved in basketball with the Leicester Riders Foundation, you can explore a variety of sessions here.
LRF hosts sessions for those of all ages and abilities from baby ballers to walking basketball, and weekly development days at Mattioli Arena.
Want to try out for the Riders JNBL team? Keep an eye out for our trial dates on social media below!
