Basketball
Everything you need to know about playing basketball in Manchester, including clubs, competitions, events and facilities across the city.
Basketball in Manchester
Basketball in Manchester is a fast‑growing sport with strong community roots and clear pathways to elite performance.
Home to Manchester Basketball and junior clubs Manchester Magic and Mystics, the city also hosts major global events, including an NBA game at Co‑op Live in 2027. From local courts to professional competition, there are many ways to get involved.
Getting started
Basketball is a great way to be active, build confidence and connect with others, whether you’re new to the sport or returning after a break. Across Manchester there are plenty of opportunities to get involved, from welcoming local clubs and casual sessions to leagues, competitions and events.
You can start by finding a club that suits your age, experience and level of commitment, or by joining beginner‑friendly sessions that focus on skills, movement and enjoyment of the game. Many leisure centres and community venues across the city host basketball sessions, while events and leagues offer chances to play regularly or take part competitively.
Explore the options on this page to find clubs, sessions, events and facilities near you, and take your first step into netball in Manchester.
Find a club or court
Joining a basketball club, or practising on a local court is a great way to play regularly, develop your skills and be part of a strong community.
Manchester is home to a range of basketball clubs and courts, welcoming players of different ages, abilities and levels of experience.
From beginners and social players to those looking to compete. Clubs across the city include:
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Each club has its own focus, whether that’s social netball, competitive teams or development pathways.
Use our Activity Finder to search for basketball clubs & courts near you and find the right fit based on your location, age group and playing experience.
Elite Basketball
Manchester is a leading city for elite and professional basketball, with a strong reputation for high‑level competition and player development. The city is home to Manchester Basketball, competing at the top level of the professional game, and to renowned junior clubs Manchester Magic and Manchester Mystics, which provide clear development pathways for young players progressing through the sport.
Manchester also plays an important role on the international basketball stage. In 2027, the city will host an NBA regular‑season game at Co‑op Live, bringing one of the world’s biggest basketball events to Manchester and showcasing the sport at the highest level.
Elite basketball in Manchester inspires people of all ages and backgrounds to engage with the game, whether as players, coaches, officials or supporters. These elite teams and major events sit alongside a thriving community and grassroots game, helping to connect high‑performance basketball with participation across the city.
Discover upcoming elite fixtures, major events and opportunities to watch top‑level basketball in Manchester.
Why play basketball?
Basketball offers far more than just physical activity. It’s a fast‑paced, social and inclusive sport that brings people together and plays an important role in communities across Manchester. Whether played casually on local courts or as part of a team, basketball helps people stay active, build confidence and enjoy being part of a shared experience.
Playing basketball can improve fitness, strength, coordination and agility, while also supporting mental wellbeing. Taking part regularly helps reduce stress, boost mood and develop important life skills such as teamwork, communication and decision‑making, both on and off the court.
Basketball is highly accessible, with opportunities for people at different stages of life and levels of experience. From informal outdoor play and small‑sided games to grassroots clubs, junior pathways and organised leagues, there are many ways to get involved that suit different abilities and interests. Opportunities continue to grow for young people, women and girls, and those new to the game.
Across Manchester, basketball sessions, clubs and leagues are creating welcoming spaces where people can get active, learn new skills and enjoy the sport together. You don’t need previous experience to get started — just a willingness to give it a go.
Find an activity today
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