Teesside University is continuing to enhance its reputation as a leading destination for student-athletes with a growing basketball programme that blends academic ambition with high-level sporting opportunity. Now into its seventh year in partnership with Teesside Lions, the programme is currently unbeaten this season and offers a compelling proposition for aspiring players who want to develop their basketball while pursuing a university qualification.

The University’s collaboration with the Lions – who compete in National League Division One – provides student-athletes with a unique dual-pathway. They not only receive academic instruction in one of the UK's most progressive higher education institutions, but also benefit from training and competing in both the National League and the Durham Regional League. That is in addition to the BUCS league for university competitions. It’s an immersive basketball environment that has helped to attract some of the most talented young players from across the UK, Europe and even globally.

Among the current cohort of high-performance student-athletes are the talented Benas Maldutis and playmaker AJ Harris – two standout recruits who have been instrumental in helping the team remain unbeaten at the halfway point of the season. Their signings mark a significant step in the ambition of the programme, which aims to be one of the top development platforms in the country.

AJ Harris, a dynamic guard with a well-rounded skillset, is pursuing a degree in Animation. Teesside University is nationally recognised in this field and offers one of the strongest creative programmes in the UK, giving Harris an outstanding dual opportunity to develop both academically and athletically. 

In a recent interview, AJ said: “Animation is a passion of mine, and I was instantly attracted to Teesside because of the basketball opportunity, and the reputation for animation. The facilities are incredible. I have access to professional level equipment and studios.

“The opportunity to train and compete with high level team-mates and coaches on the basketball programme is a dream scenario. I am getting access to basketball almost every day of the week, and playing nearly sixty games a season.

“I can highly recommend Teesside for anyone interested in studying, and playing basketball.”

Meanwhile, David Consgrove, a promising player from Ireland, is enrolled in the university’s Physiotherapy course, which is world renowned for its applied learning and graduate success in the health and sports sectors.

David is in his second year, and features alongside University team-mate King Joseph in the Lions Division Two outfit.

David is another player who appreciates the programme at Teesside University, stating: “Basketball was more of a recreational pastime for me as I arrived on Teesside. The main attraction was the Physiotherapy course which is extremely highly regarded in Ireland. 

“I made the basketball team and am really enjoying the experience. I have improved greatly as a player, and even focussed on achieving better physical conditioning over the summer to enhance my ability to perform this season. 

“While I initially was drawn academically to Teesside, I have developed a laser focus to be part of the basketball team and do my best to represent both the University and Lions teams.”

The Sports Science programme, which Benas Maldutis, Toby Scully, and third year student Temi Olusesi are currently studying, has received particular acclaim – rated as the third best in the UK. The course aligns naturally with the demands of elite sport and equips student-athletes with the knowledge and applied practice to better understand their performance and long-term health.

James Thomson is the Director of basketball for both Teesside Lions and the Teesside University programme. Thomson has been really pleased with the progress and quality of players attracted this year, stating: “This season has seen a positive recruitment of student athletes to strengthen the overall programme. The University team are unbeaten and challenging for promotion, and both Benas and AJ are valued members of the National League team. Benas actually holds the third best 3-point shooting percentage in NBL1.”

For Teesside University, the goal is clear: to enrich the university experience by offering more than just a degree. The basketball programme provides life-shaping experiences through competition, teamwork, leadership and a professional sporting environment. The exposure that comes from playing for the Lions – especially at National League Division One level – adds to the sense of progression, with players training multiple times per week and competing in games that challenge their physical and mental capacity, pushing them to be the best versions of themselves.

Thomson added: “We are working hard to build a strong and attractive programme here on Teesside and welcome interest from prospective students considering their options.”

Recent accolades also add to the growing prestige of Teesside University. The Times recently named it the Best University in the UK, further reinforcing its status as a modern and forward-thinking institution. Coupled with a dynamic basketball partnership and commitment to athlete development, Teesside University is fast becoming a destination of choice for young people who want to excel in the classroom and on the court.

Off the court, the £290m investment into world class facilities on its Campus Heart offers prospective students with envious buildings and resources, such as the £20m Curve, the £37m Bios, the £13m Student Life, and most recently the incredible £41m Digital Life. 

For those looking to make the most of their university years – to gain a qualification, enrich their life experience, and pursue sporting excellence – Teesside University now offers one of the most compelling platforms in British higher education.