New Heads of the Valleys Basketball League to Launch in October 2026
Basketball Wales is delighted to announce the launch of the Heads of the Valleys (HOTV) Basketball League, an exciting new competition created to support the development of basketball teams and players across the South Wales Valleys.
The league will tip off in October 2026 and operate from a central venue at the Engine House in Dowlais, Merthyr Tydfil.
Six teams are set to compete in its inaugural season:
- Merthyr Mustangs
- Newbridge Raiders
- 20 Nuggets
- Beddau Knights
- ABC Gwent
- Ebbw Vale Vikings
The league has been designed for new and developing clubs, as well as players who want to begin playing competitive basketball in an accessible and supportive environment.
Its central-venue format will help keep clubs’ start-up and operating costs to a minimum. By playing fixtures at one location, teams will avoid many of the expenses and administrative demands associated with securing their own home courts and arranging regular home-and-away travel.
Commenting on the launch, HOTV Basketball League Chairman Simon Thornley said:
“The HOTV Basketball League aims to provide a competitive and inclusive platform for young and developing players, as well as those who are new to senior basketball.
“Our goal is to create more opportunities to play, support player and coach development, strengthen local clubs and help grow basketball throughout the Heads of the Valleys and surrounding communities.”
Basketball Wales Chief Operating Officer Gavin Williams said:
“We are pleased to support the launch of this new league. We have worked closely with Chairman Simon Thornley to ensure that the league has the appropriate governance, codes of conduct and safeguarding measures in place.
“All players, coaches and officials involved in the league will be licensed with Basketball Wales, helping to safeguard the safety and wellbeing of everyone taking part.
“This partnership has been formalised through a memorandum of understanding between the two organisations, and we look forward to seeing the league tip off in October.”
The league will give players, coaches and clubs the opportunity to gain valuable competitive experience, develop their skills and build sustainable club structures.
As their experience and ambitions grow, the league will also provide a pathway into established competitions such as the South Wales Basketball League and the Cardiff Basketball League.
With six founding teams representing communities across the region, the HOTV Basketball League marks an important step in growing the game and creating more opportunities to play basketball in the South Wales Valleys.
Further information, including the full fixture schedule and opening-day details, will be announced ahead of the first tip-off in October 2026.
Basketball Wales looks forward to welcoming all six teams to the Engine House for what promises to be an exciting and memorable first season.
Be sure to follow the new league on its social media channels for the latest news and updates.
For any enquiries, please contact the League Chair, Simon Thornley, directly at moc.kooltuo@llabteksabryhtrem.
