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4 September 2026  2 min read

Lakenheath Lightning defend WCBT title

The US Air Force outfit defended the title they claimed in 2025, beating New York Kings 49-43 in the 'A' final to become just the second team in the tournament's history to go back-to-back.

Richard Elite, overseen by former NBA San Antonio player Ryan Richards, took the 'B' final after a narrow 52-48 victory against 94FT Lab.

The two-day tournament brought together eight teams from the USA and the UK, showcasing high-quality competition, sportsmanship and community engagement.

New York Court Kings, Lakenheath Lightning, Florida Flight, and Flight Crew all represented America, with BC London Gloriosi, TCW Select, 94ft Lab and Richards Eliteflying the flag for the UK.

Beyond the action on the court, WCBT2026 featured a youth coaching session, entertainment, community activities and continued its long-standing support for Kidney Research UK, the tournament's dedicated charity partner.

WCBT Founder Eric Douglin said:

"WCBT2026 was another fantastic celebration of international basketball.

"The standard of competition was excellent, but what makes this event special is bringing people together through sport while supporting a cause that means so much to me personally. We are incredibly grateful to every team, volunteer, official, supporter and sponsor who helped make this year's tournament such a success."

About The World Club Basketball Tournament

The World Club Basketball Tournament would like to thank its sponsors and supporters, including Always Ballin, OncourtAntics, Heatwave Print, Hoops Connect, Waffle House and DJ Scratz, together with the tournament's media teams, volunteers and officials whose efforts helped deliver another memorable event.

The World Club Basketball tournament is hosted by Bexhill Giants Basketball Club in East Sussex, and the tournament is open to senior male players from teams across the world, including professional, semi pro or high standard amateurs.

WCBT was founded in 2015 and since then has included players who have competed at the highest level, including the NBA, NCAA, Euro League, and other professional leagues around the world.

The tournament also aims to raise awareness for charity partner Kidney Research UK after WCBT organiser Douglin received a kidney from his wife Mandi in 2010 after being diagnosed with chronic kidney disease.

Find out more about the WCBT