Danny Williams Appointed as Basketball Wales’ First-Ever Performance Programme Manager
Basketball Wales is pleased to announce the appointment of Danny Williams as its inaugural Performance Programme Manager, marking a significant step in the organisation’s development. With an extensive background in coaching and player development, Williams brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as a Regional Talent Manager for Basketball England for over eight years.
Williams has nurtured some of England’s top young basketball talent as a former coach and player with the City of Birmingham Rockets. His deep knowledge of the British basketball performance pathway makes him exceptionally well-suited to lead the development of Wales’ emerging players.
“It’s an honour and privilege to take a leading role in Basketball Wales’ performance programme,” said Williams, 38, who also has a strong background in compliance and safeguarding. “I’ve spent time within the programme and have seen first-hand the dedication and commitment from both staff and players. I’m eager to contribute my skills to build on the fantastic work already being done, and I’m excited to join the Basketball Wales family.”
Williams, who has competed at both NBL Division One and BBL levels, joins the organisation at a key moment as the youth performance programme in Wales undergoes significant transformation.
“We’re extremely fortunate to have brought in someone of Danny’s calibre,” said Performance Director Phil Gordos. “His comprehensive understanding of the British basketball landscape, coupled with his extensive network and drive, will be pivotal in creating an environment where players, coaches, and performance staff can raise standards and fulfil the potential that exists in Wales.”
Looking ahead, Williams emphasised the importance of continual progress within the programme: “It’s crucial that we keep pushing elements of the programme forward. With 15 years of experience in a performance environment, I’m confident that my coaching development expertise can help propel the programme to new heights.”
Thanks to the financial support from Sport Wales over the next three years, Basketball Wales has been able to set more ambitious performance objectives, drive significant improvements, and ensure the recruitment of essential staff to help grow the sport across Wales. Since August 2024, Basketball Wales has already welcomed two key hires.
Hebron Getachew joins as Communications Officer, a role shared part-time with Netball Wales. Hebron holds a degree in Marketing and an MSc in Sustainable Development from the University of Sussex. With four years of experience in digital marketing, communications strategy, website management, public relations, and supplier management, she brings a diverse skill set to the role. In her previous position as Media and Communications Lead at Omnicom Media Group, Hebron led marketing campaigns for global brands like Unilever and Diageo, enhancing brand visibility and awareness. Hebron is passionate about using media to drive socially impactful initiatives and is committed to the role of sports in uniting communities.
Sam Gilbert has also been appointed as Participation and Inclusion Officer, covering Gwent and Central South. With considerable experience across various basketball leagues in South Wales, including the South Wales Basketball League (SWBA), National Basketball League (NBL), and Basketball Wales National League (BWNL), Sam has played, coached, refereed, and served as a table official. His goals include providing development opportunities such as referee and coaching qualifications, establishing new clubs, and growing basketball participation across Wales.
