SLB secures work visas for imports after governing body reversal

Super League Basketball (SLB) has won a key battle in its ongoing power struggle with the British Basketball Federation (BBF), securing the right to sign overseas players and coaches for the 2025/26 season.

The row centres on Governing Body Endorsements (GBEs) – essential for clubs to sign non-UK players – and whether SLB has the official recognition needed to issue them.

In an embarrassing climbdown, Basketball England (BE) will now provide the official approval required for overseas athletes and coaches to obtain a work visa to play or work professionally in the UK, reversing their position after clarification from the Home Office.

The BBF has refused to provide GBEs for the SLB unless they accept a one-year licence agreement to operate in the gap before the GBBL – the new league awarded a 15-year licence by the BBF to run the professional game – begins in 2026/27. Following that stance, BE had also advised they could not grant GBEs to the SLB due to the league not being recognised by the BBF.

“We’re grateful to the Home Office and BE for their clarification in resolving this key issue,” SLB Interim Independent Chair Sanjay Bhandari MBE said.

“Our clubs have shown real ambition and determination throughout the summer, pushing ahead with roster plans in the face of uncertainty.

“Now that this issue has been resolved, we can all look ahead to what promises to be a thrilling season of Super League Basketball with a full fixture list to be announced in the coming weeks.”

The SLB season tips off on 19 September.

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