An ever-growing programme in recent years, Force have established themselves as a premier basketball outlet on the South coast, building on the pioneering work of their legendary president, Mick Byrne.
With clubs now dotted across the NBL landscape at both junior and senior level and a robust local league and participation offering, Force's good work hasn't gone unnoticed as they swoop in for 2024's opening award.
"Portsmouth Force has demonstrated outstanding growth, community impact, and a relentless commitment to making basketball accessible for everyone.
"Over the past year, it has expanded its programme to an impressive 16 teams across all categories, ensuring opportunities for players of all ages and abilities to participate.
"This includes the addition of new SEN (Special Educational Needs) sessions, breaking down barriers for individuals with disabilities and fostering inclusivity in basketball."
"I spent a weekend down at Portsmouth earlier this year, and the clear thing that stood out is what a instrumental part of the community the club is.
"On Friday evening they delivered a SEN session, and the amount of time and effort the coaches had put into to developing a curriculum that enabled the students to develop their skills shone through.
"On Saturday it was time for the men's game, where over 500 people from the town attended. You could have thought you were at a US College with the atmosphere, from the on court announcements, cheerleaders, fan giveaways and a wild home crowd.
"They have a wonderful committee who are dedicated to ensuring the growth of basketball in the area and they are richly deserving of this award."
Force's recognition begins an eight-day period where national recipients of the 2024 Basketball England Awards will be announced.
Winners from across BE's ten regions were announced across April and May, with those recipients then shortlisted to narrow down the field for each national winner.
Force and others will be recognised for their achievements over the coming days, leading up to another cohort of selections being celebrated with their "Services to Basketball" awards on Monday, 7 July 2025.
.
.
