Andrea Boreland: Tributes paid after London Lions coach passes away

Tributes have been paid to Andrea Boreland after the London Lions coach passed away suddenly. 

A statement from her family read: “It has come as a shock to us all. Please keep Andrea’s family in your prayers.” 

Boreland was a popular and respected figure in London basketball and beyond, guiding the progress of a host of young players with Brixton Topcats, before becoming the only female assistant coach in the BBL of recent years. She also made a huge contribution to officiating. 

As a mark of respect, and with permission of her family, all BBL, WBBL and NBL teams are invited to hold a 24-second applause for Andrea at the beginning of each game this weekend.

A London Lions statement said: 

“We are deeply saddened to inform you that our beloved Coach Andrea has passed away. 

“Andrea is an adored daughter, sister, teammate and friend, and has been at the heart and soul of basketball in London for over 30 years. 

“Her loss is devastating, and as her family, friends and teammates process this news, we ask that their privacy is respected. 

“Andrea has been with The London Lions every step of the way and will forever be a Lion.” 

Basketball England London Region chair Patricia Fairclough said: 

"It is with sadness and a heavy heart we mourn the sudden passing of one of London's greatest female basketball stalwarts. 

“Andrea worked tirelessly as a coach for the development of the game from grassroots to national and BBL level and Europe with London Lions. Many clubs relied on her as a statistician in the NBL, WBBL, BBL and across London, Herts and Kent regions plus the BE National Championships. She always had a smile for fellow coaches, officials, players, supporters and media. 

"Andrea served on the London RMC and created valued time to help local and national teams with her other passion of referring and table officiating whilst mentoring young and new officials. 

"A great loss to all aspects of the game." 

Basketball England Coaching Delivery Manager Brian Aldred said: 

“I’m shocked and deeply saddened to hear the passing of Coach Andrea. She was a true guardian of the game being involved for so many years. Her dedication to the sport was immense and she will be sadly missed by all in the UK basketball community. Thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends.” 

The British Basketball League said: 

“Coach Andrea was an inspiration and mentor to so many throughout the community. We send our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones at this sad time.” 

Main picture: Graham Hodges