British Basketball Faces League Division



Super League Basketball (SLB) is considering a split from the British Basketball Federation (BBF) after claiming exclusion from crucial discussions regarding the future of men’s professional basketball in the UK. The BBF has recently awarded preferred bidder status to a group led by Marshall Glickman, president of the Portland Trail Blazers, for a long-term league operator.
SLB's Response to BBF's Decision
SLB, which was established last summer to replace the financially troubled British Basketball League, expressed dissatisfaction over not being consulted in this process. SLB chair Vaughn Millette indicated that the league's nine clubs had previously engaged positively with the BBF and had expected a collaborative approach to securing a longer-term license.
Concerns Over Legality
Millette stated that the decision to withdraw from the BBF's tender process was made unanimously by SLB’s shareholders and directors due to concerns regarding the legality of the BBF's actions. Despite raising these issues multiple times, SLB claimed it did not receive adequate responses, and the terms outlined in the tender document were deemed unviable for investment.
BBF's Position
The BBF responded by asserting that it believed SLB would submit a bid for the long-term license, thus making their involvement in defining the terms inappropriate. The BBF maintained that SLB's choice not to participate in the tender process was a decision that would prevent them from obtaining a long-term license.
Future of SLB
Following the BBF's announcement, SLB affirmed its commitment to operate independently and focus on the growth of the league. The inaugural SLB championship commenced in October and is set to conclude in May with playoff finals in London.
BBF's Strategic Vision
BBF chair Chris Grant emphasized the significance of this moment for British basketball, highlighting the expertise brought by Glickman's group. The BBF aims to enhance the sport's potential and community impact through this new partnership.
Conclusion
This ongoing dispute highlights the challenges within British basketball governance and the differing visions for the sport's future. As the SLB seeks to establish itself independently, the BBF is moving forward with its preferred bidder, potentially reshaping the landscape of men’s professional basketball in the UK.