Bob Bhania is a highly respected figure in English basketball, known for his extensive career as a referee and his commitment to developing future officials. He has served across multiple levels-from grassroots leagues to the British Basketball League (BBL)-earning a reputation for fairness, deep knowledge of the rules, and professionalism.

Joel Henry is a versatile British basketball player for the Surrey Scorchers (Super League). The 6'1" (1.86m) guard was known for his speed, control, and sharp shooting. His ability to read the game, create plays, and defend with intensity made him a reliable presence on the court. Known for his work ethic and determination, Joel Henry remains a respected figure in UK basketball circles, serving as an example for aspiring players and a testament to the growing talent within British basketball.

Ruchae Walton is a former professional basketball player and D1 scholarship athlete, and named Women’s Elite Academy Basketball League Player of the Year in 2016. Ruchae has now taken on the prestigious role of the GM for the London Lions Women’s Team. Ruchae brings a wealth of expertise and energy to her coaching sessions.

Shanice Beckford-Norton is a London-born basketball player who began her collegiate career at LSU before returning to the UK to play professionally, most notably with the London Lions, where she won multiple titles and served as team captain. A Great Britain international and Commonwealth Games silver medalist in 3x3 basketball, she has been a key figure in the national program. She currently plays for the Oaklands Wolves in the Super League Basketball Women's. Off the court, she founded SBN: For The Kids, an initiative focused on inspiring and mentoring young people through sport.

Alex Ducasse brings over 15 years of coaching expertise together with a Masters in Sports Science. Alex has played a key role in building one of London’s top basketball academies at Crest Academy, competing in the CB and spent eight years on the Aspire (formerly RDT) England Programme, with the last four as Head Coach of Talent, leading coaching across all age groups. Alex was also the assistant coach for England’s U14 and U18 teams in 2019 and 2020. Alex is currently launching a new initiative using basketball to teach physical literacy and life skills to primary school children.

Sparrows is a self-help disability charity and the longest-running wheelchair basketball club in London. Sparrows are proud to be one of the most inclusive disability sports clubs in the UK, with a high percentage of members from minority, ethnic, and often highly excluded communities. Over the years, Sparrows has produced some of the UK’s top wheelchair basketball players, including representatives of Team GB. Over 30 years ago, Sparrows pioneered the development of an inclusive league—welcoming players with and without disabilities to enjoy one of the world’s most accessible and exciting team sports. Today, Sparrows continue to run inclusive leagues at all levels, ensuring everyone has the chance to participate.

Matt Sealy has played professionally both in the UK and abroad, including time with an elite Italian squad. Domestically, he spent 12 standout seasons with Super League Club Aces, leading them to a gold medal in the Super Wheelchair Basketball League Cup. Matt is known for his strategic vision, leadership and relentless drive on the court. He brings experience, passion, and resilience to every game — qualities that continue to inspire the next generation of athletes. Whether competing for his country or mentoring young talent, he remains a powerful ambassador for disability sport and a true champion of wheelchair basketball.

Tarryn Algar is not only an accomplished basketball player and coach, but also one of the UK’s leading basketball freestylers. He is uniquely recognised as the only individual in the UK to have received an honorary degree for his outstanding contribution to the sport and promotion of the basketball industry. With nearly 35 years of experience in the game, Tarryn brings unparalleled passion and insight. He is driven by a deep commitment to inspire the next generation —living by his personal motto: “Be the person you needed when you were younger.”

Gary Maitland is a professional basketball skills coach with a rich experience in working with male and female professional athletes, National Team players, NCAA student-athletes and younger basketball enthusiasts who aspire to compete at higher levels. Gary has worked with NBA players such as Jimmy Butler, Jordan Poole and Brandin Podziemski. Gary has also trained players who have had experience competing in the Euroleague, EuroCup, ACB and other various top leagues around the world. His comprehensive training programmes are individually tailored to meet the needs of each client.

London Lions Women’s team, in April 2024, made history as the first British women’s basketball team to win the EuroCup Women title, defeating Turkey’s Beşiktaş across two thrilling legs at the Copper Box Arena. This was a powerful statement that British women can compete and triumph on the European stage. This milestone didn’t just elevate the standards for British basketball; it inspired a new generation of girls and young women to believe in their place on the court, in elite competition, and in leadership roles across sport. Though the team stepped away from European competition in 2024–25 due to a period of ownership transition, CEO Lenz Balan reaffirmed the club’s long-term commitment to competing at the highest level, with plans for a 10,000-seat, purpose-built arena in London. This vision is about creating sustainable opportunities for women in sport, from grassroots to professional levels. Their success is about more than sport; it’s a beacon for equity, representation, and the power of women in leadership and performance. For every girl watching from the sidelines, the Lions prove that the future of sport is inclusive and international!