Manchester Basketball are delighted to confirm that Great Britain U18s captain Demi Babalola has been added to the men’s team roster for the rest of the season.

Demi joins from Manchester Magic where he graduates from their youth pathway. One of Britain's rising stars, Demi will now have a full-time platform to train and play for the city's professional team.

"I'm very grateful for the opportunity. I can’t wait to grow, learn, contribute and be around incredible talent and top-tier coaches," commented Demi, who follows Kaiyem Cleary, Charli Wroe and Irene Oboavwoduo as Manchester kids now representing their home city.

"We’ve had intermittent opportunities to integrate Demi into the team so far this season, but now, we are excited to see how he’ll develop whilst spending more time with the club," commented coach Matt Pitkin.

"He first debuted for us during pre-season in Switzerland against Fribourg Olympique. We’re optimistic and hopeful that he will gain further playing opportunities between now and the end of the season."

"Demi has a lot of upside, and is someone who has come into the game fairly late. His enthusiasm and commitment for our franchise is refreshing and he embodies what we are looking for in youth prospects moving forward. I’m certain that he will benefit greatly from spending extended time with professional players on a daily basis."

General Manager Dominique Allen commented: “Demi is a fantastic talent and it’s important for us to support his development as he looks to further his career.”

“Irene has followed a similar path and we are really pleased with her progress, now a regular starter for our women’s team at just 17.”

“The future is bright for youth basketball in Manchester and we are looking to play our part in supporting these young kids.”

Babalola will wear jersey number 10 and will suit up in the Castore RepTheCity Limited Edition kit of his city this evening.

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