Two former schoolmates who spent their childhood playing basketball until sunset in Blackbird Leys are now helping shape the future of the sport in Oxford through coaching and competitive play with Oxford Hoops.
Malachi Hilsdon and Errol Otto first developed their passion for basketball while studying at The Oxford Academy, where they spent break times and lunch hours shooting hoops before continuing their games in the evenings at Fry’s Hill Park.
Their commitment soon attracted the attention of Oxford Hoops, where both players progressed through the club and now represent its men’s side in NBL Division One, the third tier of the English basketball structure.
Alongside their playing careers, they coach younger athletes in the club’s youth programme and hope their enthusiasm for the sport can encourage more young people to take up basketball.
“We just love basketball,” said Malachi.
“It’s fast-paced, you’re constantly running and the feeling of shooting a three-pointer just cannot be replicated.
“I remember at lunch times we’d run out of class to make sure we had a hoop free for our friendship group.
“But playing the game in an organised environment wasn’t something we had considered until we found out about Oxford Hoops, which was a gamechanger.
“As players we have developed thanks to the support of the club’s coaches, and now we’re inspiring the next generation. It’s really rewarding.”
Founded in 1995, Oxford Hoops now supports around 300 players and provides up to 50 hours of coaching each week across 11 squads.
Without a permanent venue, the club currently hires court space at four sites across Oxford, with venue costs accounting for 85 per cent of total income.
Errol said securing a dedicated facility would help unlock the club’s long-term ambitions, including plans to become a charity and establish an educational academy.
“The potential basketball has in Oxford is huge,” said Errol
“Right now, the club has hit a bit of a ceiling and needs its own facility if it is to take training, playing and development opportunities to the next level.
“I look at the youngsters we coach each week and want them to fulfil their potential through basketball.
“That means having regular access to quality courts, having confidence that training sessions won’t be cancelled or moved during exam seasons due to availability and the option to train and study towards an industry recognised qualification like we see in other parts of the UK.
“All the above can be achieved if the right minds come together.”
Further details about Oxford Hoops are available through the club’s website.
