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Super League Basketball (SLB) has officially revealed its tenth franchise, reintroducing top-tier men’s professional basketball to Liverpool, a city renowned for its sporting heritage. Starting from the 2026-27 season, this new team will call the M&S Bank Arena, located on Liverpool’s iconic waterfront, its home ground.
This development is more than simply adding a new club; it signals the birth of a fresh sporting institution for Liverpool. The franchise aims to compete at the highest levels while creating significant and enduring economic, cultural, and community benefits throughout the region. Ownership lies with Kings Dock Sports Group Ltd, helmed by media executive and sports investor Jason Dolan. The group is dedicated to establishing a club that not only competes internationally but also becomes a longstanding civic presence and a driving force for basketball’s growth across Liverpool and its surroundings.
By introducing this franchise, Liverpool further solidifies its role as a premier destination in the UK for major sports and entertainment events. The city benefits from another professional sports organisation, which supports its expanding visitor economy and year-round event offerings. Deputy Council Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Resources and Transformation, Councillor Ruth Bennett, emphasized the significance of this milestone, noting, “Liverpool has earned a reputation as a city that stages major sport to a world-class standard, and the arrival of a Super League Basketball franchise restores something that has been missing for more than a decade – a top-flight professional team on our waterfront across a full season, year after year.”
Jason Dolan, Founder and Owner of Kings Dock Sports Group Ltd, expressed the ambition behind the franchise: “We are building for decades – not seasons. That’s why Liverpool was the clear choice. Its global sporting reputation, world-class arena, vibrant city centre and passionate supporters have created a culture shaped by clubs that represent more than competition – they represent their communities, their supporters and their city. This culture provides the foundation to build one of Europe’s premier basketball clubs.” He added, “Our ambition is to build a professional club that Liverpool is proud to call its own. One that reflects the character of this city, inspires young people, attracts world-class talent and delivers an unforgettable experience to the Liverpool community every time the doors open at M&S Bank Arena.”
The investment is also anticipated to boost the Liverpool City Region’s economy by creating jobs and attracting global investors. Deputy Mayor Cllr Graham Morgan commented on the wider impact: “This investment will bring a new professional sports organisation to the Liverpool City Region, creating jobs, strengthening our visitor economy and reinforcing our region’s standing as somewhere global investors choose to build. Just as importantly, the club’s commitment to working with local communities should open pathways for young people in this fast-growing sport. I look forward to seeing our newest professional team competing and creating opportunities for local people.”
Additional voices from local stakeholders underscored the excitement around the franchise. Faye Dyer, Chief Executive of Liverpool Experience Campus, which oversees the M&S Bank Arena, remarked on the significance of the team joining the venue, highlighting how it amplifies Liverpool’s status as a hub for world-class sport and entertainment. Annie Brown, General Manager of The Municipal and Chair of Liverpool’s ABID Board, emphasized the positive impact on the city’s visitor economy, noting the value of events that promote longer stays and vibrancy in Liverpool. Plans will soon be announced regarding the club’s identity, leadership, coaching staff, and initial roster, complemented by a community program designed to inspire youth participation in basketball across the region. Season ticket registrations and key partnerships will also be unveiled later this summer, ahead of the team’s debut season.
With professional basketball returning to Liverpool after more than a decade, efforts are now focused on building a club that will serve the city and its community for many years to come
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