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15 December 2025  4 min read

'It's more than a club' - Dragons fired by Slam Jam success

The Dragons began its journey with Basketball England’s programme for 5-11-year-olds in February 2024, with the Dragons’ safeguarding and welfare officer Inra Murphy taking the lead on the project, supported by long-time coach Chris Mellor. 

In the space of less than two years, Murphy and the club have helped grow the programme around Yorkshire, with several children moving on to take part in their U12 beginner sessions. 

The club launched the programme with sessions in August 2024, with more taking place in April and October of this year. In that time, Murphy, who is also a coach, has seen a rise from 10 children to more than 30 youngsters taking part, all of whom have benefited from being introduced to the sport in a fun, safe environment. 

The drive, passion and dedication to getting more youngsters to play led to the Dragons winning the region’s Slam Jam Provider of the Year in 2024. 

Back then, the Dragons were one of only 14 clubs delivering the programme. Now, Slam Jam reaches more than 50 clubs, further highlighting its successful and ever-growing track record of introducing kids to basketball. 

“Slam Jam is more than basketball, it’s a way to build a connected, thriving community,” said Murphy.  

“Yorkshire Dragons’ journey, including being Yorkshire Slam Jam Provider of the Year in 2024, shows that with dedication, a strong club culture, and community support, Slam Jam can transform both a club and the young people it serves.” 

And her advice for any club that hasn’t taken advantage of Slam Jam? 

“Start the programme,” she says. “It will grow organically. Focus on fun, inclusion and confidence-building. Build strong relationships with families. Prioritise safeguarding and wellbeing. Let your club and community drive the energy.” 

Building a pathway from community to club

That energy, wanting kids not only to pick up a basketball and learn about the sport, but most importantly, to have fun and continue playing, is something Murphy is passionate about - and it runs right through the club from the senior level to grassroots. 

“Yorkshire Dragons is more than a club,” she added. “It’s a community, a family, and a hub for young people to grow both on and off the court.” 

So, when Slam Jam was offered to the club through Basketball England back in February, Murphy, along with Mellor, immediately jumped at the opportunity. 

“I already lead the U12 beginner’s sessions at Halifax Inspire Centre at Calderdale College, ensuring every child feels welcomed, safe, and inspired,” she said. 

“In my view, Slam Jam aligns perfectly with what Yorkshire Dragons stands for: fun, inclusion, and community-focused basketball. It’s not just about learning basketball skills; it’s about building confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. 

“It became a programme where children could feel part of something bigger, a community and a club that cares about them.” 

And since starting Slam Jam, Murphy feels it has strengthened the Dragons’ junior sides, with 17 children continuing into her U12 sessions. 

“This proves that the programme effectively introduces children to basketball and supports long-term development,” said Murphy. 

“While they are still young, the pathway into the Dragons junior and eventually senior teams is clear, with support from coaches and the club.” 

That message is echoed by the parents of the kids who have gone to Dragons’ Slam Jam sessions. 

“Slam Jam has been a perfect opportunity for my son to mix and socialise with many different children,” said Lorenzo, whose son also attends the sessions. 

“As a parent, it’s been a delight to see my son enjoy such fun sessions. He doesn’t want to leave at the end.” 

“Slam Jam is brilliant,” said Rachel, who has a nine-year-old who attends the Slam Jam sessions.  

“There is hardly anything around locally for basketball and children, so when I came across this, it was very exciting. My nine-year-old has loved attending. The only downside is we wish it was longer than six weeks.” 

One thing is for sure: the Slam Jam programme is working wonders for the Dragons. 

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Words John Hobbs