The British Basketball Association is pleased to announce the arrival of three new employees to the league’s back office team.
Anna Jones He joins the league as a freshman Chief of Communications After running her own PR agency, HERO Communications specializes in breaking down barriers in sports and helping clients increase engagement and awareness from the grassroots to the elite level.
Jones brings a wealth of experience having worked in the sports industry for over 12 years, supporting high profile campaigns for clients such as Gatorade and Adidas for the 2014 FIFA World Cup at advertising agency Lew\Lara TBWA in São Paulo.
Jones then went on to help launch UEFA’s first women’s and girls’ football campaign while working at Mongoose Sport & Entertainment, before leading significant PR projects at international marketing firm SHIFT Active Media, including the cycling division of Continental, Bosch eBikes and Super League Triathlon.
In addition, Neil McCune He was attached to the University’s Department of Broadcasting and Media as Executive Producer Having held similar positions in FIBA and DAZN.
McKeown joined the league with over 20 years experience in live sport, working with major broadcasters in the UK and Ireland and sports associations such as UEFA.
Most recently, during his time at DAZN, McKeown oversaw the opening of every live UEFA Women’s Champions League match, in what was the largest broadcast deal in women’s football history.
Complete the trio of appointments is Natasha Real who joins the League as Team Services Manager.
Riall brings extensive experience as a Creative Project Manager from her work with large international sporting events, corporate group engagement challenges, the philanthropic sector, and national governing organizations.
Riall has been a project manager and independent event producer for several years, managing events in a variety of sports, including the 2017 and 2022 Eurobasket.
Most recently, Riall has supported operations for over two years at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games managing client services for 72 competing countries and territories during the pre-game planning and play-time trial.
Speaking about being hired for the role, Jones saidHe said: “It is very exciting to be joining the British Basketball League in a period of growth and development. Basketball has never been so popular both entertainment-wise and as marketers, we have an abundance of opportunities and resources at our disposal to share inspiring stories of this league and sport.”
McCune said speaking of his arrival“I’ve seen the league’s growth plans and how live coverage will play an important part in that, and I’m thrilled to be joining at a very exciting time. Getting back into the business of live basketball was an easy decision and I can’t wait to get started”
Commenting on its position, Real said“I am delighted to be joining the British Basketball League, the upcoming season promises to be like no other and I am very much looking forward to supporting the league and the teams at this exciting stage. I would like to thank the Burleigh Community College Sports Department for introducing me to basketball.”
British Basketball League chief executive Aaron Radin said:
“We are delighted to continue to grow our squad in the League and these three new appointments across our departments highlight our commitment to the development of British basketball. Anna, Natasha and Neil are all experts in their fields and we are delighted to have them join ahead of another important year in the League.”
As the countdown to the new season continues, you can still get your hands on British basketball by following the league on social media or Heading over to our YouTube channel To relive the best moments from the past year!