BBFA Responds to GBBL Announcement — and Prepares to Publish Fan-Led Open Letter

In its latest press release, GBBL — the new organisation awarded the long-term licence to run British basketball’s men’s professional league from 2026/27 — made reference to the British Basketball Fans Association (BBFA), calling fans “the most important stakeholders” and welcoming our formation.

It’s the first time GBBL has publicly acknowledged our existence — and while that may seem like a step forward, we believe it falls far short of meaningful engagement.

As we said in our official statement:

“The BBFA was referenced in GBBL’s announcement but without any direct engagement, the gesture rings hollow. We’ve built this organisation in public from the very beginning. Our mission, events, campaign and communications have all been open and transparent. If fans are truly considered 'the most important stakeholders,' we expect meaningful dialogue — not passing mentions in press releases.”

We could have gone further in our criticism. Many fans have expressed frustration over the continued lack of concrete information from GBBL about how this proposed league will actually function — especially in cities that currently have no professional club presence. But our aim remains consistent: to be constructive, professional, and open to dialogue.

We believe British basketball needs leadership that listens — not defensiveness, division or distraction. That includes the BBF, SLB, and GBBL. We will continue to advocate for accountability and transparency while holding ourselves to the same standard.

Our fan-led Open Letter will be published this Monday, and we want to make sure it reflects as many supporter voices as possible.

So if you’ve not yet completed the BBFA Member Survey — this is your last chance to shape what we say, and who we say it to.

The survey closes in 48 hours. Add your voice here [CLICK ME]

Thank you to everyone who’s supported the BBFA so far — through events, messages, survey submissions, and shared belief in the power of a unified fan voice.

We’re just getting started.

We are the BBFA.