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 basketball in Manchester.
Find basketball activities
Ready to get involved in basketball? There are basketball opportunities taking place across Manchester for players of all ages, abilities and experience levels.
Whether you’re looking for a casual shootaround, a beginner-friendly session, junior programmes, regular coaching or competitive basketball, there are plenty of opportunities to get active and enjoy the game.
Use the Manchester FA Activity Finder below to discover basketball activities near you and find the right session based on your location, age group and playing experience
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.
Each club has its own focus, whether that’s social netball, competitive teams or development pathways.
Use the Basketball England 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 the San Antonio Spurs and the New Orleans Pelicans to Manchester
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 is about much more than getting active. It’s a fast-paced, social and inclusive sport that brings people together, builds confidence and creates a strong sense of community.
Whether you’re shooting hoops on a local court, joining a community session or playing for a team, basketball is a great way to improve fitness, strength, coordination and agility. It can also support mental wellbeing, reduce stress and develop valuable skills including teamwork, communication and decision-making.
With opportunities ranging from informal outdoor games and grassroots clubs to junior pathways and organised leagues, there are plenty of ways to get involved, whatever your age, ability or experience.
Across Manchester, basketball is creating welcoming spaces for people to get active, learn new skills and enjoy the game together. You don’t need experience to get started, just give it a go.
Find basketball today
Find a wide range of activities across Manchester - including swimming, fitness classes, sports and holiday activities - all in one easy place.