WANT TO
PLAY?

The Community Hub is the starting point for every player at Bexley Tigers. It is a pay-and-play programme that is open to all players, regardless of ability or experience. Our focus is on fun, inclusivity, and learning the basics of basketball in a safe and welcoming environment. Players will get the chance to:

• Learn and practise the fundamentals of the game (dribbling, passing, shooting, teamwork).

• Take part in fun drills, games, and challenges that build skills while keeping sessions enjoyable.

• Make new friends and be part of a positive, encouraging community.

The Community Hub is the perfect place for players who are trying basketball for the first time, as well as those who simply want to enjoy the sport without the pressure of elite competition. Our aim is to build a genuine love for the game in every player.

For those who want to go further, the Rec Hub also acts as a gateway into our performance pathway. Coaches regularly observe players and, when they feel someone is ready, they may recommend them to progress to the next Step which is Step 2 Central Venue League (CVL) Team.

No matter what your goals are —whether it’s to play casually with friends or one day compete at the highest level — the Community Hub is the place to begin your basketball journey.

The CVL Team is the next step in the Bexley Tigers pathway for players who have shown strong commitment, enthusiasm, and readiness to progress beyond the Rec Hub.

This programme is invite-only, with players recommended by their Rec Hub coach after attending sessions and demonstrating that you are ready for the next level. Players may also express interest by joining the waiting list, but a player will only be invited to join a CVL Team session once the coach feels they are ready.

At the CVL Team sessions are more structured and focused on improving skills, understanding the game, and preparing players for pressured league competition. The CVL Team bridges the gap between casual basketball and elite play. It is designed to help players build confidence, resilience, and game understanding in a supportive environment.

Progression to the CVL Team is not just about talent—it’s about effort, attitude, and willingness to learn. Coaches are looking for players who are engaged, respectful, and motivated to improve.

Players in the CVL Team may eventually be invited to trial for the National Basketball League (NBL) Team, which represents the highest level of competition within Bexley Tigers.

The NBL Team is the highest level at the Bexley Tigers player performance pathway and represents the elite core of our club. This programme is invite-only and is designed for players who have demonstrated the commitment, skill, and mindset required to compete at the National Basketball League (NBL) and other high-level competitions.

Players can only access the NBL Team through one of two routes:

1. Progression from the CVL Team – Players who consistently perform well, show maturity, and are recommended by their coaches may be invited to a NBL Trial.

2. NBL Trials – Held once per year, usually during the summer, where players from across the club and external players can trial for a place in the upcoming season.

At NBL level, players can expect:

• Two or more weekly training sessions focusing on advanced skills, fitness, and team strategies.

• Weekly games in the National Basketball League or county-level competitions.

• Full access to performance tracking and individual player development plans via our club App.

• A focus on mental and physical preparation, teamwork, and building resilience under competitive pressure.

• Increased exposure through media, player stats, and pathways to higher levels of basketball.

The NBL programme is demanding but rewarding. Players are expected to show high levels of commitment, discipline, and sportsmanship, both on and off the court. Our goal is not only to prepare players to succeed in basketball but also to help them develop valuable life skills such as leadership, accountability, and teamwork. Please note, NBL players can be moved to CVL or even Rec Hub if they fail to maintain our clubs standards.

For many, the Academy Team is the stepping stone to opportunities in senior basketball, scholarships, or even professional pathways.