A basketball academy has secured a coveted spot in a national college league.
The Newham Knights Basketball Academy at Newham College London has been selected for the 2026/27 College Basketball League (CBL) Tier 3, a major achievement for the team and a boost for basketball in the borough.
The academy, which develops players aged 16 to 19, will now compete in one of the UK’s most recognised college basketball competitions, giving students a professional pathway without having to leave their community.
Barney Blake, head coach and student enrichment and sport co-ordinator at Newham College, said: "I am so pleased that all our hard work throughout the 2025/26 season has been recognised by Basketball England with our acceptance to CBL Tier 3.
"It reflects the quality of the programme that has been established at Newham College.
"We are passionate about developing rounded student-athletes who excel on the court, in the classroom, and within our college community."
Mr Blake brings a wealth of experience to the academy as a former England junior national team head coach and member of Basketball England’s Aspire Programme.
Since joining Newham College, he has helped build a high-performance environment focused on both personal and sporting growth.
The academy also enables students to gain officiating qualifications through Basketball England, supporting the wider basketball community and creating opportunities for young people to get involved in the sport beyond playing.
Newham College’s basketball outreach goes beyond its own team.
Each year, the college hosts the Clash of Newham Schools Basketball Tournament for Year 10 and Year 11 students.
This year’s event included a 3x3 basketball tournament and, for the first time, a girls-only competition.
As part of its ongoing growth, the Newham Knights are now seeking new talent for the 2026/27 season.
Trials are open to students who have completed Year 11, 12, or 13 and are interested in combining their studies with competitive basketball.
The academy competes in the CBL as well as Dynamik National Schools and AoC Sport competitions.
Trials will take place on Friday, July 24, from 10am to 1pm at the Newham Sixth Form Centre on Prince Regent Lane, E13 8SG.
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