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2 October 2025  2 min read

Lakenheath Lightning win World Club Basketball Tournament

Hosted at Canterbury Christ Church University in Kent on the 13-14 September, the 9th edition of the pro-am tournament continued with its tradition of raising basketball in the South East of England and raising money for Kidney Research UK. 

The teams competing this year were the New York Court Kings (USA), USAF Lakenheath Lightning (USA), Labas BC and Viesulas (Lithuania), along with 94FT Basketball, UK Police Basketball Team, and Richard Elite teams - coached and picked by former NBA San Antonio player Ryan Richards - who all represented the UK.

The eight teams were split into two groups, with the top two teams in each progressing to a category 'A' semi-finals and the remaining teams going forward to compete in a 'B' Playoff Finals. 

WCBT2025 Champions USAF Lakenheath Lightning with Founder Eric Douglin (front row, centre)

More experienced Lightning

In the A Final, a young and talented Richards Elite (White) team faced the more experienced Lightning, who were supported by their colleagues via the live link at their military base in Suffolk.

The first few minutes of the contest saw the Elite team open a 10-4 lead, but Lightning, who are used to competing in military competitions across the world, regained their composure to close the gap and win out the contest.  

The New York Kings won the category B final, beating 94ft 50-37. 

Lord Mayor of Canterbury Keji Moses (centre) with the New York Court Kings and youth coaching session attendees

WCBT Founder Eric Douglin said:

“I am really pleased that we were able bring the World Club Basketball Tournament to Canterbury for the first time, and to see so many spectators turn out to watch international basketball in Kent.

"The weekend of action was excellent, and it was great to have the New York Court Kings return for the sixth time and host their successful youth coaching session for over 40 attendees, who took part in fun drills, competitions and games.

"Due to the success of hosting the event in Canterbury, we are considering hosting the event in the city once again in 2026. Although the event would not be possible without our fantastic sponsors, including Always Ballin', Heatwave Print, RAD Basketball, Moty Media, Web Photography, TGFIT, all of the volunteers and officials, and the Lord Mayor of Canterbury Keji Moses for attending and welcoming the teams.”

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