New Teams, Fresh Energy: Isle of Man Basketball Launches 2025/26 Campaign
Pre-Season Round Robin Tournaments Set the Stage for 2025/26 Isle of Man Basketball Season
The Isle of Man Basketball Association tipped off the 2025/26 campaign with an exciting series of pre-season round-robin tournaments held at the National Sports Centre (NSC). Serving as a warm-up to the new season, the tournaments brought together players from both the Division 2 Development League and the Senior League for a weekend of competitive yet good-spirited basketball.
In the Division 2 Development League, which caters to school-age players in Year 7 and above, teams used the round-robin format to test line-ups, integrate new players, and build early-season chemistry. The emphasis was on participation and development, with coaches rotating players to ensure valuable court time for all. The standard of play once again underlined the league’s growing depth, with many young athletes showing impressive improvement since last year. The D2 competition continues to serve as a vital pathway for youth basketball on the Island, giving players a foundation to progress to senior level in future seasons.
The Senior League tournament provided an early preview of what promises to be a competitive seven-team campaign. Returning to defend their play-off crown, DGU Jets showed flashes of the form that brought them silverware last spring, while Wolves, last season’s league shield winners, looked strong despite incorporating several new faces. Cannons Elite, Cavaliers, and Hoops each displayed resilience and balance, suggesting a season where every fixture will count. The newest addition, Southern Phoenix, made their first official appearance, impressing with energy and teamwork. Phoenix have inherited several players from the now-folded Ravens, alongside recruits from the Wolves, creating a fresh and ambitious lineup for the south of the Island.
The round-robin tournaments provided valuable match fitness and a chance for teams to refine their systems ahead of Thursday night’s Senior League tip-off at the NSC. With experience blending with youth and a new team entering the fray, the 2025/26 season promises intense competition and continued growth for Manx basketball.
More information about fixtures, results, and development opportunities can be found on the Isle of Man Basketball Association’s official website: www.isleofmanbasketball.com.
