Proposed venue and community arena, with at least 15,000 seats, could deliver £3.4 billion economic impact and create nearly 10,000 jobs

The London Lions have completed the first phase of a feasibility study for a new, purpose-built multi-use arena in London — a landmark project set to transform the future of basketball, sport, and culture across the capital.

The study follows the Mayor of London’s announcement in July supporting the Lions’ ambition to establish a permanent home for basketball in the city, with City Hall providing technical expertise and strategic guidance.

Conducted in collaboration with The Sports Consultancy and Trivandi, the study completes RIBA Stage 1, confirming both the viability and strong demand for a new large-scale London arena with at least 15,000 seats for basketball and other major events, complemented by a 3,500-seat community arena.

The development would give the London Lions a permanent home and deliver major economic and social benefits for London and the wider UK. Independent analysis forecasts an economic impact exceeding £3.4 billion over 13 years, the creation of around 10,000 jobs, and significant regeneration opportunities.

The main arena is projected to host around 40 basketball games annually—including Lions fixtures and major international competitions—alongside more than 100 other sports and cultural events, ensuring year-round activity and financial sustainability.

The community arena would become home to the London Lions women’s team, serve as a training facility, and provide a dedicated hub for grassroots basketball, opening access for young people and local residents to experience the sport in a professional environment.

Growing Momentum for Basketball in London and Across England

The feasibility study comes amid unprecedented growth and investment in basketball across London and England.

In 2024, the Mayor of London launched a dedicated Basketball Taskforce to elevate the sport’s profile, attract major international events, and expand opportunities for young people. The momentum continues to build — in January 2026, the NBA will return to London for the first time since 2019, when the Memphis Grizzlies face the Orlando Magic at The O2. The following year, Manchester will host its first-ever NBA regular season game at the Co-op Live Arena. Together, these landmark events are projected to generate more than £100 million in economic impact.

Earlier this year, the UK Government and the NBA announced a landmark £10 million joint investment to grow basketball nationwide — marking the first dedicated government funding for the sport in the UK. The Government will contribute £5 million in 2026/27, with the NBA matching that investment through 2028 to expand grassroots programmes currently reaching more than 50,000 young people across the country each year.

Basketball is now the second most popular team sport in England, with over 1.15 million people playing weekly — a clear sign of the sport’s rapid rise and enduring appeal.

About the London Lions

The London Lions are one of the most ambitious basketball organisations in Europe. Built in London, for London – but with a global outlook – the Lions operate men’s and women’s professional teams, a youth pathway, and a purpose-driven foundation delivering community impact. Their mission is to establish London as a global basketball powerhouse, connecting community, talent, elite performance, and culture through sport, impact, and storytelling. Find out more at https://thelondonlions.com