Basketball England appoints two new Regional Talent Managers

Basketball England has appointed two new Regional Talent Managers. 

James Vear will lead the London Super Region, while Wayne Brooks will take charge of the Central Super Region. 

The appointments are part of Basketball England’s ongoing commitment to enhancing national talent development programmes and strengthening identification processes to support aspiring players progress on the pathway to national team level.  

Vear has a wealth of expertise and extensive experience of elite basketball coaching from across Europe. He is currently Director of Basketball at Barking Abbey Basketball Academy, where he has spearheaded youth development and achieved success in national competitions.  

Brooks is recognised for his transformative leadership at Tamworth Grassroots Basketball Academy. He has a track record of promoting and developing the sport and his innovative approach to coaching and community engagement has supported participation growth and competitive success in his region.  

Basketball England Head of Talent and Performance Steve Bucknall said: 

“We are thrilled to welcome James and Wayne to their new roles as Regional Talent Managers. 

“Their appointments support our dedication to nurturing and developing talent. Their extensive experience and passion for the game will be invaluable as we continue to push the boundaries of what we can achieve.  

“Basketball England looks forward to the new perspectives and strategies that both James and Wayne will bring to their roles, driving forward our mission to foster outstanding talent and promote success.” 

London Regional Talent Manager James Vear said:  

"I am excited to accept the position of Regional Talent Manager for London, where I hope to continue to contribute to the growth of basketball within the region. 

“I am looking forward to working with some of the most talented youth players in the country alongside some of the best coaches and support staff.” 

Central Regional Talent Manager Wayne Brooks said:  

“I am delighted to be appointed as the Regional Talent Manager for the Central Region. With my strong experience in basketball management and passion for club and player development, I am looking forward to steering the talent delivery for our region’s next generation of gifted athletes and coaches.  

“Having worked with the current and previous three cohorts of top tier players and coaching staff on the England Talent Programme, I’m eager to extend my contribution to the continued success of Basketball England!” 

The pair join Neil Hopkins (North) and James Bamfield (South) to make a four-strong team of Regional Talent Managers (RTMs) overseeing the four Super Regions of the country. 

Bucknall added: “Together they will play pivotal roles in advancing Basketball England’s talent pathway, ensuring our young athletes receive excellent guidance and opportunities to excel.” 

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