GB Basketball: From FIBA Suspension to a New Era of Governance and Growth

Great Britain’s national basketball program confronted an extraordinary disruption when FIBA suspended the sport’s governing body amid deep governance struggles. As the GB team prepared for a World Cup qualifier against Lithuania, players and staff faced uncertainty that few teams endure, making the lead-up more about resilience than routine.

Head coach Marc Steutel acknowledged the moment was deeply challenging, but the squad pressed on, determined to show unity and focus on performance on home soil at the Copper Box Arena.

Background: the governance crisis that sparked the ban

The turmoil began after major financial backers pulled out and the BBF’s structure faltered. With the federation unable to operate smoothly, the British Basketball League reorganised into a new competition, the Super League Basketball (SLB). A licensing dispute over control of the professional league culminated in a bitter legal clash between the BBF and SLB, prompting FIBA to intervene in August amid concerns about governance and regulatory compliance.

The ban and its impact

The suspension halted all international activity for Great Britain’s senior men, jolting a team that had spent years building momentum. Steutel described the day as among the toughest in his career, underscoring the emotional toll on players who were innocent of the governance battles unfolding behind the scenes.

Resolution and ongoing challenges

In November, FIBA lifted the ban after negotiations with SLB aimed at stabilising top-tier British basketball. Yet the broader governance dispute persisted, and BBF later announced it would enter liquidation, leaving the sport financially fragile while seeking a viable path forward.

Momentum and opportunities ahead

Despite the upheaval, grassroots basketball remains robust, with thousands of young players and clubs sustaining a healthy ecosystem. The national team’s immediate goal is to stay competition-ready while the sport plots long‑term governance reforms. Many see a potential turning point, especially with NBA Europe expansion talks on the horizon, presenting a chance to accelerate growth if the opportunity is seized.

Sanjay Bhandari, interim SLB chair, stresses the need for governance reforms to prevent a repeat of past errors. Former player and broadcaster Drew Lasker argues that clear, purposeful leadership is essential to unlock the sport’s potential for growth at every level.

What it means for players and fans

For players, the chaos has not dampened focus. GB guard Josh Ward-Hibbert emphasised the team’s unity and commitment as they prepared for Lithuania, insisting the group remains cohesive despite federation-level turbulence.

The immediate aim is to translate crisis into progress: keep developing talent at the grassroots, maintain a sense of momentum within the national team, and push for reforms that set British basketball on a sustainable trajectory.

Key takeaways

• FIBA suspended the BBF due to governance concerns, halting international play for Great Britain.
• The ban was temporarily lifted after a deal with the SLB, but the BBF later entered liquidation, signaling a need for a fresh start.
• Experts see a potential turning point linked to European expansion opportunities and meaningful governance reforms.
• Grassroots basketball remains strong, underscoring significant long-term potential in Britain.

Expert comment

Expert comment: The current crisis presents a rare chance to reset foundations and pursue a clear, long-term strategy. If leadership aligns with development goals, British basketball could accelerate growth across clubs, performance, and commercial initiatives.

Summary

The sport has faced a tumultuous period, but the road ahead is defined by reform and opportunity. As governance structures are reimagined, the success of the national team and the wider game will hinge on transparent leadership, coordinated investment, and a shared vision for sustainable growth. The Lithuania qualifier serves as a real test of whether this moment can translate into lasting progress for British basketball.

Key insight: A decisive governance reset could unlock major growth for British basketball if leadership and plans align with long-term development. Learn more from BBC Sport’s coverage. BBC Sport