Hey,

Coming straight to your inbox from a wet, windy and rainy East London - autumn soon come!

This week's 3-pointer:

🎙 Podcast: Ajou Deng

When speaking to older heads about the most talented junior players they have ever seen in the UK, Ajou Deng, the older brother of Luol, comes up consistently. 6'11" with a 7'4" wingspan and guard-like perimeter skills (not even joking - watch this), he went to UConn as one of their most hyped players ever, battling through foot injuries that ultimately thwarted his career. Incredible story and definitely one worth checking out.

On the podcast front, I would also suggest checking out the latest episode of the MVP Cast with Mark Clark - there are few people that have the experience of British basketball at all levels from all sides as Mark and it was a super interesting discussion around the state of the game, missed opportunities, and what needs to be done to help grow the sport.

🚀 Season ready for take off?

The BBL announced this morning they are targeting tip off for the opening weekend of October, whilst the NBL is also targeting an October return. Of course, the BBL needs fans to be allowed in before confirming their return, having said the league is not viable behind closed doors - the Newcastle Eagles have a pre-season fixture on September 18th that has been included in the DCMS set of pilots for returning fans to sport with a ‘few hundred’ expected to be allowed in attendance. Fingers crossed 🤞

📝 Signings & Lions in Europe

A bunch of players continue to sign both at home and abroad, whilst London Lions foray into Europe continues to ruffle feathers throughout the league, as their last minute request to be able to rotate Americans through the BBL season was rejected by the league's other clubs (along with their request to increase the salary cap earlier in the off-season). Adding Byron Mullens as their final signing, it is clear they are not short on budget under their new ownership, and aren't holding back on their attempt to qualify for the Basketball Champions League regular season.

That wraps up another drop, as always, hit reply with any thoughts, questions or anything else. Have a great week!

With gratitude,

Sam