BBL 2013/14 Preview: Birmingham Knights

Birmingham Knights are set to be the unknown quantity this year in the BBL as newcomers to the top level of British basketball.

The announcement of a franchise returning to Birmingham in 2011 brought delight to many – any new franchise resulting in the expansion of the BBL is always greatly received – but doubt was cast initially when the introduction of a team would be delayed by a season to now.

However, any fear can be put to one side as coach Paul Douglas’ side will take to the floor competitively for the first time this weekend.

Consisting predominantly of a strong Midlands lineup with a dash of international flavour, it remains to be seen just where one can place Douglas’ side before a game of any real meaning has been played.

Featuring for the Knights are point guards Mike Gayle, who comes with European experience from Wolfenbuettel, and Kieran Mills. Joining them in the backcourt are Martyn Gayle, Aaron Maher and in as an import is Gainsville native Brent Besson.

Moving on to the frontcourt line-up, we find more Brits in the way of Emile Hopkins and Ryan Lewis, who have both plied their trade in Leicester with Riders (Hopkins) and Warriors (both). Another forward for the Knights is in the shape of Joshua Rolls-Tyson, with another import finishing off the roster list with small forward Armond Battle, who hails from Plymouth, Minnesota.

It really is anyone’s guess as to how this side will fare, but history does suggest that newer franchises go through the motions and discover very quickly how tough life can be at the top. The main hope is for this Birmingham side is that they can grow and reach out to the Second City and bring basketball to those who may never have had the opportunity to see it before; to promote the game through fresh minds to fresh eyes – the game in this country needs it now more than ever and for another franchise in the Birmingham area to fail would be a telling sign. But for all those in the Midlands who are close enough to take in a Knights game – go, you won’t know what you’re missing otherwise!

Birmingham Knights roster

Guards: Mike Gayle, Kieran Mills, Martyn Gayle, Aaron Maher, Brent Besson

Forwards: Emile Hopkins, Ryan Lewis, Joshua Rolls-Tyson, Armond Battle

Predictions for Birmingham Knights:

BBL Championship: 12th
BBL Playoffs: DNQ
BBL Trophy: 1st round
BBL Cup: 1st round