Can you share the story behind your latest basketball event at Liverpool ONE? What were its highlights and how did the community respond? e return of LVP 3x3 at Liverpool ONE was an in- credible success, building on the strong foundations of the 2023 and 2024 events. Hosting a large-scale basketball event in the heart of Liverpool city centre is a rare and powerful opportunity. It not only brings the sport to a wider audience, but also shines a spotlight on the talent and community spirit emerging from Toxteth. Some of the key highlights included a record turn- out, an electric atmosphere, and the participation of a wide mix of players from across the Uk. e event demonstrated how sport can bring people together in shared celebration, while also amplifying the positive stories coming out of our communities. How did the idea for your Midnight Basketball sessions in Liverpool city centre come about, and what unique needs do they address? We were inspired by the original Midnight Basket- ball programmes that began in the United States in the early 1990s, which were designed as a tool to reduce youth crime and provide safe, structured late-night activity. e concept had always resonat- ed with us, and we saw a real opportunity to imple- ment something similar here in Liverpool—where no such initiative had existed before. e logic is straightforward: young people are o en most vulnerable during late hours, when there are fewer positive outlets and structured opportunities available. By o ering a vibrant, energetic and safe environment during these hours, we’re helping to reduce risk-taking behaviours and give young people something they can belong to. It’s a preventative approach as much as a sporting one, and it’s proven to be incredibly e ective. In what ways have these programmes—both the Liverpool ONE event and Midnight Basketball—fos- tered connections across dierent age groups in Toxteth and beyond? What’s unique about these programmes is their ability to transcend traditional age and social barriers. We’ve created platforms where young people, older participants, and families can all engage with basketball in a way that feels inclusive and community-led. Hosting events in non-tradi-
tional, highly visible public spaces is key—it allows us to reach people who might not usually seek out sport, and creates a shared sense of belonging. ese initiatives have helped foster social cohesion, not only within Toxteth but across wider Liverpool communities. Whether it’s teenagers engaging in Midnight Basketball or families turning out to support events at Liverpool ONE, we’re seeing basketball become a catalyst for connection and unity. Could you describe a particularly memorable moment or success story that illustrates the impact Toxteth El8te has had on local participants? One standout moment from last year was watching our newly formed U-16 team thrive. Despite being together for only a short time, several players quickly progressed to represent clubs nationally and even internationally. It was an incredible armation of everything we’ve worked for. It’s not just about producing athletes—it’s about creating viable pathways for young people to grow, develop, and realise their potential, both on and o the court.
Photography: @CorbynJohnMedia LVP 25’
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