Durham Wildcats Accepted Into BBL
The British Basketball League has today announced that former EBL Division 1 side Durham Wildcats will be joining the professional ranks for the 2011/2012 season after having their application accepted to become a BBL franchise.
Following two promotions in the last three seasons, this latest step to join the country’s professional league caps a meteoric rise for the club since its formation back in 2005.
BBL Chairman Paul Blake said:
“We are delighted to welcome the Durham Wildcats to the BBL. Their community ethos aligns perfectly to the BBL’s own strategy, and they have all the key ingredients to build a successful BBL franchise.”
Quentin Sloper, Chairman of the Wildcats added:
“Sport in County Durham is built on successful partnerships and we are no different. Durham County Council, Durham University and the CSP have all played significant roles in getting the club this far. Our long term success will, without question, be partially determined by how successful we are in developing our existing partnerships and how we establish and grow new relationships with local and regional partners. We are determined to deliver a rounded product, from grass roots to performance level. A product that the County can be proud of and that people feel part of.”
The latest BBL side has full backing from Durham County Council, with Leader Simon Henig adding:
“This is tremendous news for Durham and a great vote of confidence for the club. I would like to congratulate everyone involved. We are committed to encouraging sport throughout the county and will be supporting the club as it continues to grow. We wish them every success in the forthcoming season and beyond. ”
The addition of the north-east based side allows the league to remain at 12 teams for next season, following the withdrawal of Worthing Thunder a few weeks ago. There are still rumours of a Manchester based franchise to potentially be added for next season.
What do you think? Are Durham ready for the step up to the professional league? Drop a comment and let us know!
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