Manchester Basketball have appointed Krumesh Patel as the new Head Coach for the women’s team. Krumesh, who is well known in the league after building a reputation for success at both Leicester Riders and London Lions, will lead the franchise into the new Super League Basketball era.

After graduating from the University of Leeds, Patel spent nine years in Leicester, starting as a community coach, Head of the Academy and then the Head Coach for the women’s pro team. In 2018-19 Patel led the program including the WEABL and U18 youth programs to a 48-6 record, winning many National Championships including the WBBL Trophy and WEABL.

“I’m super excited to be in Manchester, there’s a great vibrancy and potential here,” commented Patel.

“There’s a lot of scope for the club and program to grow. I’m excited to see where we can take the new franchise in the next few years.”

“We’ve already started to put some great people together as an organisation that are all hungry to succeed and challenge the status quo.”

“In a short time, we’ve been able to put together a solid roster with a great blend of veteran players and experienced professionals that will put us on a great footing going into the season.”

Patel moved to Sweden to Head Coach the Wetterbygden Sparks in the Swedish Basketball League after nine years at Leicester. He returned to Leicester as head coach for the 2022/23 season, who made history by qualifying for all three major Women’s league finals in the same season.

Last season Patel, assisted London Lions’ women’s side to a historic European success last term, alongside Matt Pitkin, Manchester Basketball’s men’s Associate Head Coach.

Krumesh has international experience too, having headed up the GB U20 Men, who will compete in the Division B European Championships in North Macedonia.

Ben Pierson of the Sherwood Family Investment Office commented:

“We are delighted to welcome Krumesh as the head coach of our women’s team. His reputation in UK basketball speaks for itself, as does his history of winning.  His wealth of experience will be a huge asset to us.

In a short time, he’s built an impressive roster of talented players, all of whom bring valuable experience that will benefit us as the season unfolds. Beyond that, Krumesh will also be instrumental in attracting younger players, ensuring a strong pipeline of future talent for the long-term sustainability of the club.

We’re thrilled to have Krumesh at the helm, supported by an exceptional staff, and are excited for the journey ahead.”

Watch Krumesh’s first home game in charge of Manchester Basketball on Saturday 12 October at National Basketball Performance Centre, Belle Vue - tickets are available here.