ELEVATING BASKETBALL IN THE UK
Identify, develop and empower the top youth basketball players in the UK
APRIL 2025: UK SHOWCASE II
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APRIL 2025: UK SHOWCASE II -
OUR EVENTS
At UK50, we don’t just host basketball events—we set the stage for the next generation of elite talent. Our showcases bring together the best under-18 players from across the UK, giving them a platform to compete, prove themselves, and take their game to the next level. With high-stakes matchups, pro-level media coverage, and an electric atmosphere, every UK50 event is built to challenge, inspire, and highlight the future of British basketball.
EASTER UK SHOWCASE II
14-16th April 2025
UEL Sportsdock
09:00-17:00
We look forward to welcoming our UK50 roster to our UK50 Showcase II, which will also see our Inaugural Girls Showcase in Easter 2025
INVITE ONLY
SHOWCASE 2024
The UK50 Showcase delivered a premier platform for the UK’s top under-18 basketball players to compete at the highest level. The event featured intense competition, expert coaching, and full media coverage, providing athletes with a professional experience that highlighted their skills and potential. More than just a showcase, it was a celebration of talent, hard work, and the growing impact of British basketball on the global stage.
You can also watch all the full games and highlights on our Youtube Channel
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to identify, develop, and empower the top young players in the UK through elite training, mentorship, and exposure. We aim to create a pathway for young athletes to achieve personal and professional success, offering tailored coaching, global competition, and growth opportunities beyond the court. Through our camps, tournaments, and membership platform, we’re dedicated to fostering excellence, resilience, and community among aspiring players, positioning them for scholarships, professional careers, and lifelong success in the sport.
OUR TEAM
DANIEL JAMES
CO-FOUNDER
Daniel’s career in basketball reflects his deep passion and unwavering commitment to the sport, encompassing a wide range of experiences from working with NBA players to coaching in prestigious leagues like the Eurocup, the Chinese Basketball Association, and the British Basketball League.
Beyond his technical coaching skills, Daniel is devoted to mentoring young athletes. He emphasizes the importance of developing professional habits, a strong work ethic, and essential life skills, leveraging his extensive international coaching experience at every level of the game. His holistic approach not only enhances players’ abilities on the court but also prepares them to navigate the complexities of a professional sports career.
Now serving as the U16s Head Coach for London Elite, Daniel is eager to apply his extensive knowledge and passion to nurturing the next generation of basketball talent, helping them to realize their full potential both as athletes and as individuals.
KIRSTY BOWMAN
CO-FOUNDER
Kirsty has had an 18-year career in Law in the UK. She previously played basketball at Buckinghamshire University and went to South Carolina College in the US.
She has a passion for youth basketball, and is obsessed with statistics. She is currently the Team Manager for London Elite U16 Prem, and an BE Table Official.
MIGUEL MCKELVEY
CO-FOUNDER
Miguel is an entrepreneur and obsessive basketball fan. He recently led the London Elite U14 team to the 2024 national championship in his first year as a head coach, and also won the U13 European Youth Basketball League (EYBL) Championship in 2022/23.
In his playing career, Miguel started at Division III Colorado College, and then transferred to the University of Oregon (go Ducks!). Playing college basketball was one of the most fulfilling experiences of his life.
Miguel is also an entrepreneur who has helped build several companies, including co-founding WeWork. He is now working on a new company in preventative health.
HANTZ LEGER
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Hantz has 15+ years of experience in creative strategy and direction. He built, led and developed in-house creative teams of various sizes. He developed innovative creative strategies and solutions at the intersection of business-led applications and design-thinking for organisations across various sectors such as financial services and management consulting.
What is the UK50?
At UK50, we are driven by a bold vision: to transform and elevate the landscape of basketball across the United Kingdom. Our mission goes beyond competition—we are dedicated to developing the next generation of elite talent, creating meaningful opportunities, and paving the way for lasting success in the sport.
The UK50 hosts camps, tournaments and showcases throughout the year, and releases player ratings each year based on player performance and potential.
All players that are a part of the UK50 will receive meaningful advice and detailed feedback that they can use to improve on their basketball journey.
How are players selected for the UK50?
The UK50 is for the top players in the UK aged 13-17. Invitations to the UK50 are based on scouting and recommendations from trusted coaches, along with proven performance. At each UK50 event, players’ skills, work ethic, and on-court impact will be assessed by experienced evaluators.
Our rigorous selection process ensures that only the most skilled and driven athletes are chosen to participate.
If you want to join the UK50, fill out our enquiry form
How can I be a part of the UK50?
The UK50 is only for those players who are dedicated to doing what it takes to develop a long-term future in basketball. In addition to playing for a club, and training regularly throughout the year, a potential UK50 player will display a deep passion for the game.
Nominations can be submitted by players, parents, coaches, and clubs. If you’d like to nominate a player, you can reach us at: info@uk50.org
If you want to join the UK50,fill out our enquiry form
FAQS
What age groups are the UK50 ratings for?
The UK50 ratings focus on players aged 13-17, targeting top talent who are preparing for high school, collegiate, or early professional levels.
Who decides on the ratings?
Ratings are determined by a panel of experienced coaches and scouts who assess players based on criteria such as skill level, athleticism, decision-making, leadership, and potential.
Are the ratings position-based?
Yes, ratings will consider player positions, providing insight into the top players across various roles (e.g., guard, forward, center) to offer a well-rounded picture of the talent landscape.
When are the official ratings released?
The official UK50 ratings will be released at the end of the showcase season. Players and parents will be notified, and ratings will be shared publicly through our official channels.
Is there a membership or follow-up program with UK50?
Yes, UK50 plans to offer ongoing development programs for selected players to support their growth, with options for continued training, showcases, and international tournament opportunities.
How often will the UK50 ratings be updated?
Ratings will be updated periodically, taking into account players’ growth, new talents joining the scene, and performance at key events. We anticipate updates every six months.
Will there be international tournament opportunities?
Yes, top players may be invited to represent UK50 at select tournaments in Europe and the US, providing exposure to scouts and coaches on an international level.
Can players outside the top 50 participate in UK50 events?
While the UK50 Showcase is invite-only, additional training camps and regional showcases may be open to a wider group of players. Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities!
What if I am unable to attend the December showcase?
If you were invited, but are unable to attend, please reach out to us. We will offer additional evaluation opportunities at a later date or during future showcases.
How do I pay for the showcase?
Payment information, including methods and deadlines, will be sent to you directly with your invitation confirmation. Payment options include online transfers and other secure digital methods.
CONTACT
If you have any questions or comments, please don’t hesitate to email us.