Our U18 team is preparing for an incredible opportunity as they head to one of the most prestigious youth tournaments in Europe. What once felt unreal is now becoming a reality: on 11th December, our talented squad—led by Coach Kelson—will fly to the beautiful city of LA ROCHE-SUR-YON, France, to compete against some of the strongest youth basketball programs on the continent.

A Team Built for the International Stage

This year’s roster features players who are no strangers to performing abroad, including Sam Scott, Daniel Olusanya, and David Idowu. David recently represented UK50 in a highly successful trip to Shanghai for the Future Star Tournament, where the UK50 squad defeated China in the final. In front of 20,000 spectators, the ever-popular David delivered a memorable game-winner—an experience that highlights the calibre and resilience within this group. Their presence will bring invaluable international experience to our campaign in France.

Elite Competition Awaits

Our boys will be tested by a series of top European academies, each known for producing high-level talent:

Inter Bratislava (Slovakia)
One of the most successful youth academies in Central Europe, renowned for their strong development structure.

SEPA Academy (France)
A powerhouse within French youth basketball. SEPA regularly features players who go on to represent France at U18 level and has a long history of producing professional athletes.

IBAM Munich (Germany)
A leading program competing at JBBL and NBBL (Bundesliga) levels.
As part of the NBA Basketball School Germany In-Season Program, IBAM provides elite development pathways for top U16 and U19 prospects from across Munich and beyond.

Stella Azzurra (Italy)
One of Italy’s largest and most storied basketball clubs. Their U18 team has excelled on the European stage, including finishing runners-up in the EuroLeague Basketball Next Generation Tournament (2017–18).

A Major Step for Our Program

Our U18s have already proven themselves in the Western Premier competition, and now they will measure themselves against some of the best youth programs in Europe. This invitation is an incredible addition to what our club aims to provide for its players.

Our GM Daniel Szatkowski shared his thoughts:
“One thing is competing in the top leagues in the UK—but facing the toughest teams in Europe is a different challenge altogether. We are grateful for the invitation, and I am confident the team will return stronger than they left. I trust Coach Kelson and the boys to represent us proudly. At the same time, basketball has a unique power to build connections, and I look forward to expanding our collaboration with the VIB organisers: SEPA Academy.”

Follow the Journey

Stay tuned for daily updates, photos, and stories as our U18s experience this unforgettable opportunity in France!

EYBL U17: Resilient Squad Finishes 2–2 in Sofia After Rollercoaster Tournament

The EYBL U17 team returned from Sofia, Bulgaria with a respectable 2–2 record, concluding a demanding four-game stretch that showcased both adversity and elite individual performances. Despite injuries to key players, the group demonstrated resilience, grit, and flashes of exceptional talent.

Game 1 – Tough Opening Loss vs Host Team BUBA (69–100)

The tournament opened against BUBA, a powerhouse built around Bulgarian national team players. The hosts displayed their strength early, handing our boys a difficult 69–100 defeat.

Standout Performances:

Noah Binun – 29 points

Leo Bowman – 14 points

Ramsay Quidam – 12 points

The team suffered a major setback when Alex Nicolas rolled his ankle in the first quarter, ruling him out for the remainder of the tournament.

Game 2 – Bounce-Back Win Over Hoopstarz Academy (79–72)

Showing impressive mental strength after a tough start, the team regrouped on Day 2 to defeat the Swiss side Hoopstarz Academy. The match remained close throughout, with our team entering the fourth quarter down by three. A dominant final period secured a 79–72 victory.

Top Performers:

Noah Binun – 31 points

Leo Bowman – 27 points (U16 player stepping up)

Ramsay Quidam – 14 points, along with exceptional defensive work in shutting down the opponents’ primary scorer.

Game 3 – Bowman’s Historic 41-Point Explosion vs KK Dubrava (85–77)

The third game delivered one of the most remarkable EYBL performances in recent memory. Leo Bowman (U16) erupted for 41 points and 10 rebounds, displaying fearlessness and maturity well beyond his age. His offensive brilliance propelled the team to a crucial 85–77 win over Croatian side KK Dubrava.

Supporting efforts came from:

Ramsay Quidam – 22 points

Noah Binun – 17 points

Game 4 – Depleted Roster Falls to Hot Peppers (Netherlands)

The final game proved a step too far, as the squad was forced to play without Leo, Alex, and Noah. With three key contributors sidelined, the short-handed team battled but could not match the firepower of a talented Hot Peppers lineup. Despite the heavy loss, the group showed pride and competitiveness throughout.

Tournament Highlights & Awards
Noah Binun – All-Star Five Selection

A dominant presence across all games, Noah earned a place in the tournament’s All-Star 5, averaging:

25.7 points

11 rebounds

24 efficiency rating per game

Leo Bowman – Team MVP

The U16 standout proved unstoppable, averaging 21.3 points per game, highlighted by his 41-point masterpiece against Dubrava.

Ramsay Quidam – Defensive Anchor

Ramsay delivered on both ends, recognized as the team’s best defender, while contributing:

19.3 points per game

6.3 rebounds per game

Coach Daniel’s Reflections

“This trip was a mix of frustration and satisfaction. We faced multiple injuries to key players, and this affected our performances big time. Nevertheless, our talented squad fought bravely and won two games. I am proud of this unit, and I know there is a great future for this team.”

Next Stage: Milazzo, Italy – 8–11 January

The team now prepares for the next EYBL stage in Milazzo, Italy, where they’ll aim to build on the progress made in Sofia and return with a healthier and even stronger roster.

Our U15 squad travelled to Kaunas, Lithuania for their first experience in the U15 European Youth Basketball League (EYBL)—one of the continent’s top development platforms. Entering the event with strong domestic momentum, including a 6–0 start in their U16 Conference League and several impressive 30–40 point victories, the boys stepped onto the European stage eager to test themselves against elite competition.

In Kaunas, they faced some of the toughest youth teams in Europe, including Unibasket Lanciano (Italy), Swedish champions Fryshuset, and Finnish contenders PuHu. The results on paper—0 wins and 4 losses—tell only a small part of the story. Across all games, the boys demonstrated determination, resilience, and a willingness to compete, showing clear signs of growth with each match. They matched the physicality, learned to adapt to new styles of play, and never let their heads drop.

Team Highlights & Standout Performers

Milun Watson – Team MVP

Milun continued his excellent season form, leading the team in points while also finishing top three in both rebounds and assists. His two-way impact and consistency throughout the stage earned him the well-deserved title of Team MVP.

Jakub Pedrak – Perimeter Threat

Jakub proved to be a constant danger from long range, leading the team in three-pointers made and maintaining an efficient percentage from beyond the arc. His shooting helped stretch defenses and provided key scoring bursts.

Makai – Control of the Boards

Makai brought strength and presence inside, averaging an impressive 12 rebounds per game. His work on both the offensive and defensive glass gave the team much-needed stability in the paint.

Ty McPherson – Defensive Standout

Ty made history in his own right by leading the team in blocked shots—a rare feat for a guard. His defensive timing and energy were crucial in slowing down some of Europe’s top perimeter talents.

Elgan Owen – Energy and Toughness Off the Bench

Elgan delivered valuable minutes throughout the tournament, bringing fearless intensity and hustle every time he checked in. His competitive spirit provided a real spark and lifted the team in key moments.

Enoch Onashile – Steals Leader & Lockdown Defender

Enoch established himself as one of the team’s most disruptive defenders, leading the group in steals and consistently applying pressure to opposing guards. His ability to win possessions, anticipate plays, and lock down matchups was one of the defensive highlights of the tournament.

More Than Results: A Valuable Development Experience

Beyond the court, the boys enjoyed exploring the historic and vibrant city of Kaunas, strengthening bonds and gaining memories that will last well beyond basketball.

The EYBL trip provided exactly what it promised: exposure, challenge, learning, and growth. While the win column remained empty this time, the boys return with greater experience, stronger character, and clearer goals for the season ahead.

We’re extremely proud of how they represented the club—showing courage, teamwork, and a commitment to improving. The journey continues, and the future remains bright for this promising U15 group.

It was a historic weekend for London Elite as our U12 team returned to National League competition for the first time in three years — and they did so in style, opening the season with a strong win over West London rivals, London Warriors.

London Elite first opened its doors in 2019, quickly establishing itself as a powerhouse at the U12 level. The program’s early success came through a super-strong squad featuring standout talents such as Anton and Tomas Saffin, Ethan Arroyo, and Kaya Birsen.

In the club’s first-ever game, the young Elite squad faced the previously unbeaten American team, Zoo Crew. After an exciting contest, our side came out on top — a result that set the tone for the London Elite program in the years to come.

Several players from that original team, including Anton and Kaya, have continued their development within the Elite pathway. Both recently represented the UK50 squad, which made headlines after defeating China U16 in the Future Stars International Tournament Final in Shanghai — a proud moment for our club and its grassroots foundation.

Today, Kaya Birsen has committed to Northfield Mount Hermon School (USA), continuing his journey at one of America’s top basketball and academic institutions. Meanwhile, Anton Saffin is continuing his development at Riviera Prep in Miami, further showcasing the strength of the London Elite pathway and its ability to prepare players for international success.

In the following season, London Elite’s second U12 generation — featuring Q. McKelvey and N. Ferrari — continued the success of the previous year. Led by Quinton, who averaged nearly 40 points per game, our squad once again won the U12 league and competed successfully in the Summer Showcase, our first major tournament organized by London Elite. Quinton is now attending Seward School in New York, while N. Ferrari continues his basketball journey at DME Wisconsin.

After a temporary dip in numbers and a three-year pause in the U12 age group, the program was reignited last spring when Coach Daniel and Coach Kieran began rebuilding the youth pathway through a strong U10 initiative. That movement has now flourished into a new U12 unit, marking the club’s full return to competitive youth basketball.

Under the guidance of Coach Imahni, whose energy and knowledge have inspired the players, the U12s made an immediate impact with a convincing opening win over London Warriors. He is a great addition to our program and we can’t wait to see what future brings!

Meanwhile, the U10 program continues to grow from strength to strength, with a dedicated group of young players attending regular training sessions and showing exciting potential for the club’s future.

Now, new talents such as Preston, Yotam, and Jackson have entered the same development pathway as Kaya and Anton or Quinton once did — proving that history has a way of repeating itself within the London Elite family.

With momentum building once again, the future of London Elite basketball looks brighter than ever. 🌟

We are proud to announce that Zan Milovidov, one of London Elite’s most promising young talents, has officially joined AS Monaco, a European basketball powerhouse competing at the highest level.

Known as La Roca Team, AS Monaco’s senior squad plays in France’s top-tier LNB Pro A and the prestigious EuroLeague — where they reached the Final Four in the 2024/25 season, narrowly missing out in the championship game.

Zan will be joining AS Monaco’s U18 team, which competes in France’s premier U18 league and regularly features in the Adidas Next Generation Tournament (ANGT) — one of the most globally respected stages for youth basketball talent.

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Zan joined London Elite at age 13, and quickly made his mark. The polite giant became a central figure in the squad that claimed the club’s first-ever National Championship title at the U14 level.

Standing at 6’10”, Zan has continued to impress. Last season, he delivered a dominant performance in the U16 National Final, helping lead his team to the final in a memorable campaign.

Most recently, Zan represented Team Europe at the highly prestigious Future Star Shanghai Tournament, where — alongside five other London Elite players and U16 Head Coach Daniel James — he helped the team win the championship, defeating China U16 in the final. This victory is another major highlight in a breakout year for Zan and a reflection of the talent emerging from our program.

Zan reflects: “My time at London Elite was honestly amazing. I spent three great years there and it really felt like being part of a family. Winning the championship in my second year was a big highlight, but the best parts were the practices, the EYBL trips, and just having fun with my teammates. The energy was always high, and I grew a lot as a player and a person. If I had to do it all over again, I’d pick London Elite every time. Now I’m looking forward to a new challenge in Monaco and experiencing something different while taking everything I learned with me.“

This move is a testament not only to Zan’s talent and work ethic, but to the developmental pathway provided by London Elite — and the international opportunities it creates.

We wish Zan the very best in Monaco and look forward to following his journey on one of Europe’s biggest stages.

Once Elite, Always Elite.

London Elite is proud to announce a major milestone in the club’s journey: our Men’s team has officially been promoted to Division 1, as part of a competitive restructure by Basketball England.

This exciting development doesn’t just elevate the level of basketball on the court—it signals the start of a new chapter for our entire program, with big investments in the fan experience and club infrastructure.

A New Level of Experience – On and Off the Court

Fans attending home games this season can expect more than high-level basketball. We’re taking game days to the next level with LED banners around the court, enhanced visuals, and a more immersive atmosphere that reflects the ambition and professionalism of a our club.

“This isn’t just about going up a division,” said a club spokesperson. “It’s about raising the standard across the board—from how we train and compete, to how we engage our fans and represent our city.”

Leadership Changes: Daniel Moves to GM, Kieran Takes the Helm

As part of this new phase, long-time Head Coach Daniel will be stepping down from the sidelines to take on a full-time role as General Manager of the team. His leadership has been instrumental in guiding the men’s program to this point, and his vision will now steer the club’s broader strategy and growth.

Assistant Coach Marc Moral will continue in his role, bringing experience and consistency to the bench.

We’re also thrilled to announce the appointment of Kieran Matthews as the new Head Coach of the Division 1 Men’s team. Kieran has been an integral part of the club for the past six seasons, particularly in youth development, and now steps into the top job with a clear mission and deep understanding of London Elite’s DNA.

From the New Head Coach, Kieran Matthews

“Having been part of a lot of success at London Elite over the past six seasons—particularly on the youth side, and through supporting the men’s program—I believe this transition is a natural one. I’ve seen the club grow from the inside, and I understand what it takes to move it forward.

Now, stepping into the role of Head Coach for the Division 1 Men’s team, my mission is clear: to lead meaningful change, raise standards, and build something that goes beyond the scoreboard.

This team will serve as the beacon—a symbol of what our younger players can and should aspire to. We’ll put a major emphasis on player development and the transition from youth to professional basketball, creating a real pathway grounded in opportunity, mentorship, and growth.

But more than that, I want this team to become something the entire club and community can be proud of. Of course, we’ll always fight to be competitive—but this team has the potential to be so much bigger than basketball.

We’re not just building a roster.
We’re building a culture.
We’re building a legacy.”

Open Trial – July 16th

Players interested in joining the Division 1 roster are invited to attend our open trial on Wednesday, 16th July.
To register or for more information, contact: [email protected]

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This is more than a promotion. This is a new era for London Elite Basketball Club.
Come be part of it. 🏀

London Elite basketball Club is proud to announce a landmark partnership with IBB LED, ushering in a bold new era for the 2025/26 season.
From the very first home match, supporters will notice an immediate difference: a state-of-the-art LED perimeter board will frame the court at every fixture, bringing broadcast-quality visuals, dynamic sponsor content, and a match-day atmosphere worthy of the sport’s top stages.

Daniel Szatkowski, London Elite Director ” Our club since day 1 have been doing amazing things on court. Massive success on court are coming each year. However our main weaknesses was game day experience which i was focused on tackling for several months now. I am beyond proud of this sponsorship as this is whole new level for our club. Now i can confidently say that for London Elite sky is the limit”

Raising the Game—On and Off the Court
Enhanced fan experience: From live stats to crowd-pumping graphics, the energy at our home games will be unmatched—from warm-up to the final point.

Professional brand image: The LED system places London Elite among UK’s most forward-thinking sports projects—a level of presentation we’ve all been waiting for.

Expanded commercial platform: Rotating digital inventory allows for flexible, high-visibility sponsorship packages—strengthening the commercial reach of both London Elite and IBB Polonia.

Bartek Łuszcz, IBB LED: As a company we have been supporting Volleyball for many years but now when occasion came that IBB Polonia and London elite can work together, we did not hesitate to support this. We both benefit from this collaboration and i truly believe we will grow from strength to strength each season. Future is ours”

More Than Just a Partnership

This exciting venture also sees IBB Polonia playing their upcoming matches at our home court—Harris Lowe Academy—further strengthening the connection between the two clubs.

We invite fans to witness the beginning of this new era at our inaugural launch event on Saturday, 12th July.
Come and enjoy a day of elite sport:
🏐 Volleyball at 2:00 PM
🏀 Basketball at 4:00 PM

The collaboration marks a shared vision: to elevate us, inspire the next generation of athletes, and deliver unforgettable live experiences. With innovation lighting the court and unity powering the progress, the 2025/26 season is just the beginning of a thrilling new chapter.

IBB LED is a London-based company dedicated to transforming sporting events into unforgettable experiences through cutting-edge LED technology. With a strong focus on enhancing the game-day atmosphere, they deliver dynamic perimeter advertising, high-impact visuals, and tailored solutions that elevate the professional image of sports clubs and captivate fans from start to finish.

London Elite Basketball Club is proud to announce a new partnership with the European Youth Basketball League (EYBL), marking a significant step forward in its long-term commitment to coach and player development.

As part of this collaboration, London Elite staff and players will have the opportunity to attend EYBL camps and events across Europe, gaining exposure to elite-level competition and international coaching methodologies.

Kieran Matthews, Head of Development at London Elite, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership:

“I think this is the most logical step for us as a club. Our eyes have always been on international pathways and models. This partnership will open our growing and developing coaching staff to international opportunities. The growth and development of our staff, as well as our players, is paramount.”

An EYBL spokesperson added:

“We are excited to welcome London Elite into the EYBL community. Their commitment to player and coach development aligns closely with our mission, and we look forward to seeing them thrive in our competitive environment.”

As part of this initiative, London Elite is now inviting expressions of interest from coaches who are eager to join a progressive club with strong international links and a clear development pathway.

This will be a development platform through our club, where new coaches can gain qualifications, experience and knowledge while working towards Pro career.

For more info please contact [email protected]

We are beyond excited to invite you to the London Elite Basketball Club’s Annual Awards Night, taking place on Thursday, 19th June 2025 at 6:00 PM, in the theatre at our home court – Harris Lowe Academy Willesden.

This special evening is dedicated to celebrating the incredible achievements of our players, coaches, and teams throughout the 2024–25 season. It’s our moment to honour the passion, hard work, and dedication that every member of our London Elite family has shown.

This year’s event is particularly meaningful. After a few logistical challenges in previous seasons, we’ve pulled out all the stops to make this one truly unforgettable. It’s time to give our players, coaches, and supportive parents the recognition they deserve.

By attending, you’ll get a real sense of the scale, ambition, and vision of the London Elite Basketball Club. Discover the amazing things happening behind the scenes and see first-hand what lies ahead for our growing community.

🚨 Please note: Space is limited to just 200 guests, and we expect to sell out quickly – so don’t wait!

🎟️ Click here to reserve your spot or scan this QR code:

📅 Event Details:

Date: Thursday, 19th June 2025

Time: 6:00 PM

Venue: Theatre at Harris Lowe Academy Willesden

Doyle Gardens, NW10 3ST, London

Let’s come together to celebrate the spirit, effort, and success of the London Elite family. We can’t wait to see you there!

#LondonEliteAwardsNight #EliteFamily #CelebratingExcellencelondonelite.club