London Capital thrown out of BBL

London Capital will not play in the British Basketball League next season, leaving the domestic competition without a team in the UK’s largest city.

The decision, which came following an internal review of the troubled club’s operations, was ratified by the BBL’s board.

The move comes as little surprise following widespread criticism of the Capital’s set-up, poor crowds and the performances last season that saw the Willesden-based outfit finish last despite a promising crop of young British players.

12 months ago, it was decided to handed London a reprieve but they will feature next term in the EBL instead.

“The decision follows a season-long review process which evaluated the performance of the franchise both on and off the playing court,” said the BBL, in a statement.

“The BBL remains committed to the development of a successful franchise in London and is continuing to progress the establishment of a BBL franchise connected to the Olympic Boroughs Basketball Legacy plan.”

No replacement franchise is expected to be promoted into the league for next season.

"It's really disappointing," said Milek Jivens, the Capital's player-coach. "We knew it was on the cards and that there was a chance we wouldn't be in the league next year.

"But we've not had a chance to sit down and talk about it yet."

Jivens admits he is undecided whether to remain at the helm but he would like to play or coach in the BBL again.

"I feel I can compete at this level," the American insisted. "I was one of the youngest coaches in the league and I have a lot to learn. But I also feel I have a lot to give with the experience I've gained."

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