GB Men’s Basketball Team Suspended from Internationals by FIBA

FIBA Suspends GB Men’s Basketball Over Governance Scandal

In a major blow to British basketball, FIBA has suspended the British Basketball Federation (BBF), ruling the men’s national team ineligible for international competition due to governance issues surrounding the domestic league structure.

The decision follows an in-depth investigation by a FIBA-appointed taskforce, which uncovered “regulatory non-compliance” involving the awarding of a 15-year league licence.

Tender Dispute Triggers Suspension

The controversy began in April when the BBF granted exclusive rights to launch the new Great Britain Basketball League (GBBL) to GBBL Ltd, a consortium led by American businessman Marshall Glickman, promising £15 million in funding over two years.

However, the nine existing Super League Basketball (SLB) clubs refused to join, branding the process as “illegal and unjust”. The clubs took legal action in the High Court and called on UK Sport and government authorities to intervene.

Suspension Details: No National Competitions or Internationals

Following months of tension, FIBA confirmed:

• The BBF is suspended from licensing or recognizing top-tier national men’s competitions.

• The GB men’s national team is barred from participating in senior FIBA competitions.

• A new interim operational framework will be developed by FIBA in cooperation with UK government and stakeholders.

“These measures aim to restore regulatory integrity and promote sustainable governance of men’s basketball in Great Britain as soon as possible,” said FIBA in a statement.

Political Response and Leadership Fallout

UK Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock expressed deep concern:

“It is a relief that the GB women’s team is not included in this suspension, but work must clearly be done to fix the domestic game… We will work closely with FIBA and partners to address governance concerns and protect the future of British basketball.”

The turmoil also triggered leadership changes, with BBF chairman Chris Grant resigning on Sunday, citing “personal reasons” after three years at the helm.

What’s Next for British Basketball?

FIBA’s taskforce now faces the challenge of rebuilding trust and regulatory structure within British basketball. While the women’s national team remains unaffected, the men’s side must now watch from the sidelines — a devastating setback just months ahead of major international competitions.

The long-term future of the GBBL, BBF’s governance credibility, and UK Sport’s role in funding and oversight will all come under scrutiny in the coming weeks.