BBL Diaries

In a series called ‘BBL Diaries’, UKAmericanSportsFans.com has given one BBL player an opportunity to keep a diary throughout the season. The 2012/13 BBL Diary will be kept up-to-date by Manchester Giant guard, Devan Bailey.

In the first entry of 2013, Devan talks about the BBL Cup Final and the controversy of UK Sport’s decision to cut funding for basketball in Britain.’

“I thought the BBL Cup Final day was pretty good. I understand the dunkers weren’t pleased with how fast the competition was and felt they should have had more time to do the competition but other than that I thought the pre-game was a good warm up to a brilliant Final.

“I don’t think it (the decision by UK Sport to cut all funding for basketball in the lead-up to 2016) will impact the future much – I still see youth teams are playing and the BBL through to Division 4 leagues are still running. There is no way that there shouldn’t be any funding for British basketball but I do believe, when there is money involved, the positive impact of what that money will be used for in the future should be made clear.

“While basketball is one of the most played sports in the world, it wouldn’t make sense for British basketball to lose funding based on performance  – otherwise England football would be penniless too. So rather than just releasing statistical information on the amount of funding sports receive, why don’t they release the reasons why.”

To sign the e-petition to get UK Sport’s decision to cut funding discussed in the Houses of Parliament, click here. Luol Deng, Pops Mensah Bonsu and Jenson Button are just a few of the high-profile talents who have supported the campaign created by Hoopsfix‘s own, Sam Neter.