Category: Elite girls

London Elite Announces Exciting Partnership with Italian Powerhouse Stella Azzurra

London Elite Basketball Club is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Stella Azzurra, a storied basketball club based in the heart of Rome, Italy. Founded in 1938, Stella Azzurra boasts a rich history of producing NBA players and clinching multiple national championships. In 2018, they were the runners-up in the Euroleague Next Generation Tournament, further solidifying their status as one of Europe’s premier basketball clubs.


London Elite, known for its vibrant presence in the UK basketball scene, has already established itself as a trustworthy partner through its numerous national and EYBL titles in recent years. The seeds of this partnership were sown when the General Managers of both clubs, Daniel Szatkowski and Patricio Prato, met during the EYBL U15 stage hosted by Stella Azzurra in Rome.

Reflecting on the encounter, Daniel Szatkowski remarked, “Visiting beautiful Rome and meeting such great people while taking part in a tournament organized to the highest standard, it was a no-brainer that Stella Azzurra is the ideal partner for London Elite.”

The first step in this exciting partnership is a player exchange program, allowing talented athletes from both clubs to participate in each other’s basketball programs. Daniel Olusanya, a promising guard recently selected for the England U15 camp, has already benefited from this collaboration by joining Stella Azzurra for their tournament in Athens, Greece.

Looking ahead, London Elite is planning an eight-day preseason camp in the capital of Italy, where teams will have access to Stella Azzurra’s renowned coaching staff and facilities. This invaluable opportunity will also include friendly matches against top-tier teams, with the added highlight of London Elite’s U18s facing off against an NCAA team with the assistance of Stella Azzurra.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the partnership, Stella Azzurra’GM Patricio Prato stated,“We are very exited in partnering with such a fast growing organization like London Elite, enabling players and teams to have new and enriching experiences. This alliance will propel both clubs to the future”

London Elite is committed to providing regular updates on this dynamic partnership, as it promises to be mutually beneficial for both clubs. Stay tuned as we embark on this exciting journey together, uniting the best of British and Italian basketball talent.

THE YEAR 2023 SUMMARY

Year 2023 – A Remarkable Chapter in Our 4-Year Journey

As we bid farewell to 2023, a year etched in the annals of our club’s history, we reflect upon the incredible milestones that have made it arguably the most successful in our four-year journey.

National League Triumphs:
The year kicked off with resounding success as our U18 squad secured a coveted spot in the National Cup final after a fierce battle against Milton Keynes. Facing the London Legends in a thrilling final played in Manchester, our boys emerged victorious, clinching the title of National Champions. Simultaneously, our Division 2 side, under the guidance of Coach Daniel Szatkowski, achieved promotion to Basketball England’s top tier – Division 1.

Our talented junior teams continued the winning streak, with two squads making it to the Final Four event in Manchester. The U14s and U18s showcased their prowess, promising a formidable future for our club.

In the realm of girls’ basketball, our debut season in the National League saw our young squad earning promotion to the U16 South Premier League, marking a monumental achievement for our girls’ side.

EYBL Campaign:
Our foray into the European Youth Basketball League (EYBL) was nothing short of spectacular. The U20 team, under the strategic leadership of Oskar Striuga, embarked on a journey to Levice, Slovakia. The team exhibited commendable resilience against top-tier opponents, ultimately securing a remarkable 7th-place finish.

On the other side of the spectrum, our U13 squad, masterfully guided by Coach M. McKelvey, ventured to Budapest, Hungary. Displaying an upward trajectory in skill and passion, our young players faced off against formidable teams from across Europe. With standout performances from L. Bowman, D. Onuoha, and Z. Milovidov, the unthinkable was achieved – the U13 EYBL CHAMPIONSHIP! This triumph not only resonates within our club but also echoes across the European basketball community, marking a historic milestone for our organization.

Individual Achievements:
Our commitment to player development was further exemplified by numerous call-ups to represent London and the UK. Standout players such as Kaya Birsen, Ata Charles,E. Ahamefule, S. Emanelo, L. Campbell, and N. Djanogly earned spots in various national teams during the Euro Campaign 2023.

As the summer unfolded, our players garnered attention from programs worldwide, receiving offers from renowned institutions such as Jefferson College ( Devonte Sanusi), Adam’s University Philippines ( RJ SanDiego), Florida Coastal Prep ( Elise Guede), LA Sierra ( Jonah Bediako), Western Texas ( Liam Campbell), Strength and Motion Prep ( Hunter Kelleher), and Brewster Academy ( Nathaniel Djanogly).

A Glimpse into 2024:
As we celebrate the successes of 2023, we eagerly anticipate an even more remarkable 2024. The foundation has been set, and with unwavering dedication, we are poised for greater achievements, both on and off the court.

Cheers to a stellar 2023, and here’s to an even brighter 2024!

U16 Girls Plans revealed.

London Elite U16 Girls Team, after an outstanding season, has achieved promotion to the premier division for the highly anticipated 2023-24 season. The team’s success is attributed to their hard work and dedication. We are thrilled to announce the addition of the exceptional coach of Hugh Wilkinson, a former National Cup champion and national finalist. Furthermore, the team is set to make their mark on the international stage as they prepare to compete in the prestigious European Girls Basketball League (EGBL).

London Elite Girls Team’s promotion to the premier division marks a significant milestone in the team’s history. After an impressive season, they have demonstrated their exceptional skills, teamwork, and determination, earning them a well-deserved spot in the top-tier league. The promotion not only reflects the team’s growth and development but also raises their profile within the basketball community.

The appointment of Coach High Wilkinson to lead the London Elite Girls Program has generated excitement and anticipation among players, fans, and basketball enthusiasts alike. With a remarkable track record as a former national cup champion and national finalist, Coach Wilkinson brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the team. His strategic approach, ability to inspire players, and focus on player development are expected to elevate the team’s performance to new heights. Coach Hugh said”I am excited to be joining London Elite as the club creates opportunities to showcase talent on a number of platforms and provides rounded player support to help facilitate a player’s basketball journey. I have seen London Elite grow in success at a rapid rate and have great respect for the way the club has propelled itself up the ranks in basketball. I want to help to grow another branch of the game at the club which will hopefully make a lasting impact”

In addition to their domestic success, the London Elite Girls Team is preparing to compete on the international stage at the prestigious European Girls Basketball League (EGBL). This highly regarded competition features elite teams from across Europe, providing the Elite girls with an opportunity to showcase their skills and represent their club and country. Participating in the EGBL will expose the team to a higher level of competition, allowing them to gain invaluable experience and test their abilities against some of the best teams in Europe.

As the Elite Girls Team gears up for the upcoming premier division and the EGBL, they are leaving no stone unturned in their preparations. Coach Wilkinson, along with her coaching staff, is focused on refining the team’s strategy, enhancing individual skills, and fostering a cohesive playing style. Intensive training sessions, tactical analysis, and friendly matches against strong opponents are all part of the team’s rigorous preparation process.

The players, too, are eagerly embracing the challenge ahead. Their dedication and commitment to improving their game have been evident throughout the season, and they are determined to make the most of their promotion and international opportunity. With a combination of experienced veterans and talented young prospects, the U16 Girls Team is poised to make a strong impression both domestically and internationally.

The U16 Girls Team’s promotion to the premier division and their participation in the EGBL marks an exciting new chapter for the club. With the guidance of Coach High Wilkinson, a renowned figure in the sport, the team is primed for success. As they embark on their journey in the premier division and prepare for the international stage, our girls team aims to continue their winning ways, inspire young athletes, and leave a lasting impression in the world of girls’ basketball.

If you are interested in joining this exciting project, contact Daniel on 07453314867 or info@londonelite to book your slot at our trials taking place on the 6th and 13th of July!

Gniezno, Thank You!

Thank you. This is the first thought that comes to our mind when we look back on a recent trip to Poland for the Gniezno cup. We could not be luckier to be able to travel across the continent to take part in one of the biggest youth basketball festivals in Europe. Despite the fact that taking 34 teenagers for 5 days in Poland could be a very difficult logistic task, our coaches stood up to the challenge and made this trip happen. And what trip that was! Watching players bond, support each other, making life friendships while doing what they do best, playing basketball.

Having arrived on Thursday 30th June, our players checked in to a very nice Hotel and after a few hours set off for their shooting session. Friday morning saw our teams starting their tournament.

U15 boys started their tournament with a convincing victory 50-12 over 3rd Israel team Maccabi Ashod. Not long after the first win our youngest team in this tournament faced the German team White Wings. The good all-team effort saw our boys secure 2nd win of the day with a good win 43-20. Our girl’s team faced MKS Piaseczno from Poland in the first game of the tournament. Despite being close in competition our girls fell to the polish side 24-30. Friday evening saw us playing LA BAsketba Warsaw. Girls started really hot with great shooting from Mila Piscitelli and Elia Ando and controlled the game for majority of game however mistakes towards the end saw our side with a heartbreaking 40-37 loss.

Boys U17 set the tone with a big win over Israel Maccabi Ashod. The game remained close till the mid-3rd quarter when our boys went on a big run and secured a 47-26 win! The same day saw our team face home team MKK Gniezno where our boys fell 58-56 in a very dramatic ending. 3rd game of the day for our oldest squad was what to be possibly the most dramatic game for our club at Gniezno Cup. Very well and physical German side Fortuna Logabirum pushed our boys all the way. very slow start 0-13 put our boys in a difficult situation. But amazing support from Girls and U15 boys plus great coaching tips from coach Kieran and coach Daniel saw our boys improve their game with a great comeback. The late3 shot failed and we were to head to overtime against the German side. Both teams traded baskets but it was our boys holding their nerves and collecting a very important win 58-56. Well done!

Day 2 saw our girls play home side. Our girls stayed within a few points for 3 quarters but the experienced polish team secured 46-26 win with a big run in the 3rd quarter. Our girls never gave up and went into the 4th game with a great attitude and collected the first win over Maccabi Ashod. Girls played really well-organised basketball and sealed 49-26 win. Much deserved for our girl’s side who was improving with every minute of basketball played.

Our U15 boys faced a team that later on won the whole cup, the Latvian side Brivsolis Tukums. The boys went head to head and pushed the Eastern European team all the way but came short and lost 45-53. In late Saturday afternoon, our team faced Maccabi Ashod II in-game that would define 2nd place in their group and the right to compete for 3rd place in Gniezno Cup. A closely contested team saw Coach Mauro DiNunzio’s troops playing possibly best basketball also far and claiming a very important win 53-47! truly amazing to see our boys come together.

U17 team could not allow any more losses if they were thinking about winning Cup. After game vs younger polish side Bombardier Szczecin which our boys won easily 55-18, our team went to play previously undefeated Twarder Pierniki Torun. The level of focus, togetherness and effort was absolutely unmatched and our team secured a convincing 59-31.

Sunday was the final day of competition saw our girls losing to MKS Wroclaw which is one of the better polish U17 teams. Despite the great first half, our girls could not keep up with the well-organised and talented team. In our first-ever international tournament, our girls finished 5th overall but the results do not reflect the progress and quality of basketball our girls played. Really impressive!

Our U15 boys faced Swedish side Trellborg Pirates in a 3rd place game. But this was not our game. fatigue took its toll and despite the fight, our boys fell to Swedes 31-47 but overall finished 4th out of 11. Progress made is unreal, the work coach Mauro did, will bring great fruits to this team. The boys made our club very proud!

Our most experienced side, U17 boys. the team that has swept the EYBL stage. Boys’ team are by far the most improved squad London Elite ever had. The team that despite main player A.Willson being injured, stayed together. The team that CLAIMED 1ST PLACE in a very competitive Gniezno Cup. words can’t describe the feeling coaches, parents and club have just from the reflection of these boys’ journey. Devante Sanusi picked all-tournament MVP after displaying amazing performance throughout all 3 days.

Girls Coach Merlin Piscitelli said: “What an incredible weekend! It was a true honour and pleasure to coach the London Elite U17 girls basketball team this past weekend at an International Basketball tournament in Gniezno, Poland that included 3 London Elite teams. With over 30 kids in total, it was a special bonding trip for the players and allowed them to test their talents against some of the strongest basketball countries in Europe ( and beyond) such as Germany, Latvia, Sweden, Poland, Ireland, Israel and more. As a coach, it was inspiring to watch our kids represent the club, country and city at the highest standard both on and off the court, truly proud to be involved and to be able to give back to the kids and sport of basketball”

Countless memories, 34 players, 15 games, multiple dramatic ends, 3 teams. 1 club. 1 family. Gniezno cup, Thank you and see you next year!

National League season recap

Long awaited, Elite’s first National League season has come to the end. It is truly hard to believe this was a premiere season for us. The whole program success stands as a testimony that the hard work at club foundations pays off. Freezing period during lockdown, gave us time to create strategy how to approach season 21/22 in a best possible way. Along with excitement which was high since , multiple teams were heading towards their first ever season at national league level we coudln’t await the moment of start. Few months later , we come out of very successful Summer 2021 where we collected RBL and CBL championship titles!

U12 Review: Unbelievable Journey.

September 21′ brought lots of questions for our youngest members . Most of players from last year have moved up to U14, some moved from the west London area. This made us think if we should push with the project or simply pull out of National league. At times with less then 5 players in training, it became a challenge and test for us as an organisation. Now looking back we can say that It would have been a massive mistake to pull this team out of NL . Our youngest squad Led by Quinton McKelvey picked couple very talented players on the way and finished 2nd place in league! Journey and testimony for all players and parents involved was indescribable. Currently the future is bright!

Highlights of the year: 2OT win vs Talented Kingston Lions team.https://www.instagram.com/tv/CaM9E0lpAp8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

U14 review: Goals Achieved!

As previously, the stem of the team results lays in our talented players led by young guard Kaya Birsen. Yet again Kaya didn’t disappoint the U14 Elite fans and brought us joy and plenty of great memories with his amazing game. The journey of our young players’ development leads to one conclusion; the coaching and quality structure which London elite offers is the root for our success. Upcoming talents Sam Scott and Aron Okenge will be players to look out for in near future. Our U14 NBL team finished season with record 14-2, claimed the South IV conference championship title and secured a promotion to Premier level of competition next year!

Check out highlights from a key victory this season:(22) London United vs London Elite (NBL U14 Boys 2021/22 Game 2 Highlights) – YouTube

U16I Review: Mission Completed.

After very successful recruiting summer 21′. Our expectations grew big on our upcoming u16 squad. It did not take us long to enter this talented squad into prestigious EYBL. Season started with multiple wins Coach Mauro DiNunzio had lots to look forward to. His troops improved with each week of fixtures and claimed South II conference title behind fantastic 19-1 record! After regular season was finished, Our boys entered promotion play offs where in first round we faced Milton Keynes. Convincing win (79-54) came behind great defensive performance, our squad sealed final where We faced Woking Blackhawks away. As it was last game of the season, our boys came out firing and claimed a Promotion to Western Premier competition with convincing 106-78 victory!

U16II review: Purpose Fulfilled

With numbers constantly going up, we had more then 12 players showing talent good enough for playing at NL level. With placement of U16II into NL, we have invested resources and time which was very beneficial investment for our club . The evident progress made by our team which was mainly year 10 players was really impressive. Team members proved that they deserve to be on A team in upcoming season. Hard work from coach Kieran resulted in team coming to nearly 500 record as they ended up 8-12 in whole campaign! Well done!

U18I Review: Bright Future

After successful summer 21 and securing multiple players with scholarships in USA, We knew that upcoming season will be a tough test. With 90% squad being in first year it suppose to be a learning curve. But it was more then that. Our talented troops led by Oskar Striuga, Anthony Wilson and David Jesubayode, have proven that they are capable of beating any team in their league. Our team came 2nd out 10 and have proven to be a force to look out to in coming season. Eligible players from that squad formed our U17 EYBL team which was capable of sweeping stage in Romania. We can clearly see that right foundation have been laid for next 12 months.

U18II Review: Progress Made.

Do not sleep on this team. Formed with multiple talented U17 players, with whom many travelled with our U17’s team across Europe. It was a big headache in offseason how to classify which player goes to A or B. But we are glad that many players who started off on our second team are now considered strong candidates for our first team in upcoming season. great work by coach Daniel and coach Kieran.

Men’s Review: Undefeated Squad.

There was only one goal for this team. Knowing how much talent, experience and skills we have acquired in last summer, goal could be one. Winning our division 3 league. And team led by coach Sam Stiller did it in perfect way. Going undefeated in whole season shows that there is pure potential is in our men’s section. But best part of it: it is just a beginning! Look out for exciting news coming up in this summer!

Our GM Daniel Szatkowski said: “First ever National League season was a true accomplishment for our program. We have achieved what we set out as a goal. Promotion of 3 out of 4 teams is remarkable achievement. We still have to remember that despite high ambitious, this was our first ever NL campaign. With more fantastic excitement coming to our home, Capital City Academy, we can say one thing. Season 22/23 cannot come any sooner!”

2020 Review

2020 is the year to be remembered. We look back in what happened in previous calendar year. Our club has grown in strength despite all obstacles we faced.

SEASON 19/20

Season 19/20 was cut short due to lockdown being imposed however we look back to our EYBL experience keeping our heads high. In first year of entering club performed on great level against top European competition.

It led to some of our players receiving individual awards of prestigious All Star 5 of tournaments. Aaron Pyne and Israel Olalekan shined at U17 level while Matthew Disu collected this award for his great performance at U20 level. Head Coach Daniel Szatkowski said: “It is shame we never got to finish U17’s season but overall experience showed we belonged to that high level of basketball and can perform against great clubs”

Our Club always priorities development as a key for success. In season 19/20 our talented U12 squad was crowned champions of CBL Division 1! This is outstanding achievement bearing in mind how competitive the league was. Boys showed amazing commitment and heart for the game. This successful campaign would not be possible without impact that our young guard Kaya Birsen had on a team. On many occasions Kaya led our team and earned himself a MVP of the league title. We cannot miss the fact that our top scorer Anton Safin was named to All Star 5 of the league. Well done!

PREPERATION FOR SEASON 20/21

We could not achieve our goals if it was not for our partners. We are fully delighted that from season 20/21 we have taken our partnership with London School of Basketball to whole new level. It creates unique combination and helps London players to take their game to next level while studying at Capital City Academy.

London Elite has entered 8 teams into national league, and 9 teams into CBL for upcoming season 20/21. It is linked to heavy increase of members in our club. It is worth to mention that heading into 2020 year we had 80 members while by Christmas 2020 time this number was 140!

Our European campaign not only continues, but has been expanded by adding U16 boys and U18 Girls. It gives 4 squads an opportunity to take part in European league in season 20/21! We are proud to say that we have made history as first British team to enter European Girls Basketball league. Head Coach William Twigg said: “Great opportunities for girls and women in our sport right now. I believe London Elite will optimise every experience for them in the EGBL and other leagues at U18s international level”

It was always obvious for us that we cannot be sure on when domestic leagues will start. However we focused on things we can control. We organised and played 30 friendly games between August and Christmas. It provided great replacement for lack of leagues that are delayed till at least March/April 2021.

Shortly before Christmas we have opened our clubs merchandise shop which provides all sort of clothing accessories at affordable level. It is another step club is taking towards bright future, but also a gives a way of direct support of club to stay afloat during current uncertain times .

WHATS NEXT?

Our Head Coach Daniel Szatkowski said:” 2020 was a year of growth for us. Lockdowns imposed on UK did not help at all however we prevailed despite obstacles. We are currently in another lockdown which is frustrating. However I am sure and confident that determination of coaches, parents and players will not only allow us to pull through these times, but we will come out of it stronger. You will see in 2021 what London Elite is. New competitions added, new equipment, new pathways to America and Europe. New coaches and even more fun in this basketball journey”

These girls can!

London Elite basketball club is pleased to reveal plans for girls teams in season 2020/21. With current season coming to the end, we saw our group of girls going through ups and downs of their first ever experience in basketball. Girls section within our club is yet to see its best and we are more than confident that our girls group is heading in the right direction.

We are proud to announce that coach Afiz Olaniyan would be the head coach for girls team.What he brings with him is a vast level of expertise and knowledge which contributes to high level coaching delivery at Elite. The team led by him has just entered into U14 girls national league team.

Speaking about the past season , coach Afiz said:

“I think for the first season the girls did well. Most of them hadn’t played in organised basketball games outside of a school setting but they didn’t let it faze them. I’m very happy with their growth and look forward to helping them develop even more next season”

After first ever U12 games our girls collected much needed experience which instilled the right values , shaped their development which will hopefully be visible in their further basketball journey next season. In season 19/20 our girls collected first ever win and showed potential which sent a strong message that they are able to achieve even more.

National League U14 will allow girls to play in home and away format which practically means our home venue Alec Reed will see our girls play basketball proudly wearing Elite logo! Our program director Daniel Szatkowski said:

” I have to give credit to coach Afiz, players and parents for making this happen. I saw them girls improving so much that it is pure joy to see them continue. We will support our girls section in all possible way!”

During lockdown period we are allowed to hold small group up to 5 players trials. Please contact coach Afiz or email info@londonelite.club