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15 October 2025  4 min read

'His legacy will live on' - Tributes paid to popular coach David Lavinier

It follows the announcement earlier this week from his club, Barking Abbey. 

Lavinier made an impact as a player with the all-conquering East London Royals, representing England at various levels. 

As a coach, he worked with Eastside Eagles and within Barking's pathway, as well as professionally with London Lions.

Also involved in a great deal of school and local development coaching, Lavinier most recently spent time commentating on both Barking Abbey and Surrey Scorchers games.

Barking Abbey Director James Vear said: "Dave wasn’t just a coach, he was family to everyone who came through Barking Abbey. He had a way of bringing out the best in people, not just as players but as human beings.

"His energy, kindness, and belief in others built the foundation of what our basketball community stands for today. It’s hard to put into words how much he meant to us all and his impact will be felt forever. 

"Our thoughts are with Jude, Nicholle, Andre and all of Dave's friends and family at this difficult time."

Nicholle Lavinier said: “As a family, we are deeply touched by the love and support shown following the passing of our dear husband and father, David Lavinier. His passion for the game and dedication to the next generation were at the heart of everything he did. He inspired everyone he met with his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering belief in young people. 

“Barking Abbey was truly a second family for him. He loved the coaching staff like his own family and took great pride in helping to develop and support the young players who came through the programme over the years.

“We are so grateful for the community that embraced him and for the lasting legacy he leaves behind both on and off the court.” 

 

 

 

 

 

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Lavinier grew up playing in the London basketball community, representing local clubs such as East London Royals and Brixton Topcats in his youth.

He began making a name for himself as a coach with the Eastside Eagles in the early-to-mid 2010s, serving as head coach for their men's teams in the English Basketball League and developing countless players across London.

After his tenure with Eastside, David coached within the Barking Abbey pathway programmes, where he helped develop numerous junior and women’s players within the London academy system.

David also worked at a professional level with the London Lions organisation as the lead assistant for their women's team. During his time with the Lions, the team experienced one of the most successful spells in their history, winning multiple championships.

Beyond his club duties, Lavinier was actively involved in schools and local development. Numerous school newsletters and local club pages have recognised his work in physical education and coaching at Holy Family and other community settings, crediting him with increasing participation and performance in school teams.

Several junior players from the Lavinier family, including his daughter Nicholle and son Andre, have been featured in UK junior basketball coverage. Numerous players and coaches often reference David’s significant role in their basketball upbringing, highlighting his huge influence on youth players and coaches throughout London.

Over the past few seasons Dave continued to give back to the sport he loved so dearly by commentating both Barking Abbey and Surrey Scorchers games.

Basketball England's Head of Talent and Performance remembers his former clubmate fondly, saying: "David was a fierce competitor - leave him open, and he’d make you pay with that jumper!

"A schoolboy international from the school of Humph Long and the East London Royals club, David came through the pathway and proudly represented his country.

"Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who shared the court with him. Rest in eternal peace, David.

Basketball England invites all clubs with teams participating in the EABL and WEABL on Wednesday (15 October) and NBL, WNBL and Jnr. NBL this weekend (18/19 October) to hold a minute’s silence to pay respects to David, who also held coaching roles at London Lions. 

To do so, clubs should follow the process linked below.

Minute's Silence Process

Main image credit - Barking Abbey