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14 November 2025  2 min read

Basketball England Aspire Programme to develop U11s with 3x3 - player nominations open

A new U11 age category has been introduced to expand the opening stage of BE’s Talent Pathway, allowing coaches to engage and develop players earlier. 

It means the Aspire Programme will now have a touchpoint with youngsters from the age of eight through to 15 - with the aim of setting them on the pathway to representing England and ultimately Great Britain. 

BE will use 3x3 – the short-sided format of the game – for the new, younger cohort of the programme, which is supported by FIBA’s Youth Development Fund. 

Meehra Gorasia, Basketball England 3x3 Development Manager said: 

“3x3 is the perfect introduction to the game for our youngest players. Its fast pace and constant involvement means every player gets more touches, makes more decisions and has more opportunities to develop core skills in a fun, supportive environment.  

“With the backing of FIBA’s Youth Development Fund, we’re excited to use 3x3 to open the Talent Pathway earlier than ever before.  

“Our hope is that Aspire U11s not only builds confident, creative young players, but also inspires a lifelong love of basketball and lays the foundations for future England and Great Britain stars.” 

Be part of Aspire U11s 

Basketball England is seeking coaches and other staff to bring the programme to life, while club coaches can now nominate players for inclusion. 

Nominate players here: https://basketballengland.wufoo.com/forms/zktgilt0dgoeoh/ 

Age eligibility for players born between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2017 

Nominations close on Friday 16 January 2026 

BE is seeking coaches qualified at Level 2 Club and Community standard and above to run the programme. 

We are also looking for camp directors, physiotherapists, DJs, announcers, photographers and officials to support. 

Anyone interested in any of these paid roles should contact the relevant Regional Talent Manager. 

• North RTM - Darren Taylor [email protected] 

• South RTM - Dan Petts [email protected] 

• Central RTM - Wayne Brooks [email protected] 

• London RTM - Mike Meister [email protected] 

More about the BE talent pathway