London Youth Games and London Lions have announced a partnership to boost basketball’s community impact.

Together, they hope to make an impact not only on the court but also in London’s community, with the joint venture a special first-time basketball partnership that will elevate the experience for London Youth Games basketball participants.

Youngsters will get the chance to see London Lions players at London Youth Games’ Basketball finals competition on Saturday July 1, which will be held at the Copper Box Arena, Queen Elizabeth II Olympic Park and participants will get to be inspired by elite players who will present the Games Trophy and medals.

Importantly, the partnership will ease the cost of participation for borough teams and individuals, with dedicated funding helping the players to access membership benefits from Basketball England and licences fees required for participation.

Young basketball players involved in the event will also get the chance to win a limited number of tickets to a WBBL game, BBL game and European competitions games across both teams. The game will be held at the Copper Box Arena and will be an inspirational opportunity for young ballers to see their stars in action in a top level game.

“This exciting partnership with London Lions is a game-changing moment for basketball in London," said Andy Dalby-Welsh, London Youth Games CEO.

"Working closely with London Lions will support us in inspiring and enabling more young people to fall in love with basketball, as well as developing their social skills and mental wellbeing. 

"Basketball is the second most played team sport in England after football so this partnership has the power to give life-enhancing moments and memories to young people across London.”

Shanice Beckford-Norton, London Lions women’s captain and Commonwealth Games 3X3 silver medalist, is a former London Youth Games participant and added: “The partnership between London Lions and LYG is absolutely amazing! 

"LYG built me as a player and the entire London basketball community. I would compete against Chantel and Shequila, who both played for Hackney, who I think would agree with how much LYG has played a huge role in our careers and the enjoyment of basketball. 

"Communities are built and fostered through sports tournaments like LYG and give young athletes a chance to showcase their talent in a fun and exciting environment. Growing basketball begins with youth sport, and I believe this is a great investment, a lot of goodwill some from this partnership.”

Vanja Cernivec, London Lions Women’s General Manager, said: “London Lions recognise the importance and the positive impact the LYG has had over the last 45 years on over 1.5 million young Londoners and are very proud to be able to have a small impact on such an event through basketball participation. 

"We hope we can help provide a positive basketball experience that continues to have a significant impact, not only on a young person’s physical but also their mental and social development. We want to help breakdown current financial and social barriers to participation at the youth level, as basketball should be accessible to all young people.”