When it comes to basketball in the United Kingdom, it’s easy to think of London or the major cities in the south. However, the north east of England is also home to some incredibly talented basketball teams. Here, we’ll take a look at some of the top teams in the region and what makes them so special.
Newcastle Eagles
One of the most successful basketball teams in the UK is the Newcastle Eagles. Founded in 1996, the team quickly rose to dominance in the British Basketball League (BBL). The Eagles have won seven BBL Championships, six BBL Cup titles, and five BBL Trophy titles – a testament to their incredible run of success over the years.
The Eagles play their home games at the 3,000-seat Eagles Community Arena in Newcastle upon Tyne, which opened in 2018. It’s a state-of-the-art venue that not only hosts basketball games but also concerts and other events throughout the year.
What makes the Eagles so successful? It’s a combination of talented players, excellent coaching, and a strong organizational structure. Their head coach, Ian MacLeod, has been with the team for over a decade and has a keen eye for talent. He’s also known for his ability to get the most out of his players, helping to develop not only their basketball skills but also their overall character and work ethic.
Sunderland City Predators
The Sunderland City Predators are another team to watch in the north east. Founded in 2017, the team has quickly made a name for itself, rising through the ranks of the Basketball England National League.
The Predators currently play in Division Three and have a strong focus on developing local talent. In fact, many of their players have come up through the ranks in the Sunderland area, reflecting the team’s commitment to building a strong community of basketball players and fans.
One of the unique things about the Predators is their focus on mental and physical wellness. The team runs regular fitness classes and hosts mindfulness workshops, helping players to develop not only their basketball skills but also their overall health and wellbeing.
Tees Valley Mohawks
Based in the town of Middlesbrough, the Tees Valley Mohawks are another top basketball team in the north east. Founded in 1991, the team has a long and storied history, with players and coaches coming from all over the world to join the team over the years.
One of the things that sets the Mohawks apart is their focus on youth development. The team runs regular coaching clinics and camps for young players, helping to build a pipeline of talent for the future. They also work closely with local schools and community organizations to promote the sport of basketball and provide opportunities for young people to get involved.
The Mohawks currently play in Division Two of the Basketball England National League and have had some notable success in recent years. In the 2019-2020 season, they finished in third place in their division, showing that they have what it takes to compete at a high level.
Conclusion
While basketball may not be the first sport that comes to mind when you think of the north east of England, it’s clear that there is a thriving basketball community in the region. From the dominant Newcastle Eagles to the up-and-coming Sunderland City Predators and Tees Valley Mohawks, there are plenty of talented teams to watch and support.
Whether you’re a diehard basketball fan or just looking for a fun night out with friends, be sure to check out one of these great teams in the north east of England. Who knows, you might just discover a new favourite sport!