Please read the following document carefully, ensuring that all rules and code of conduct are understood and as a club/player /parent/spectator/member of staff and that you are fully aware of the consequences should you fail to adhere to said rules.

 

This document will cover all WGNBL divisions, outlining our amendments as We Got Next Basketball League. Please note for our U10 Division we will adopt all rules, regulations and policies set by FIBA 3x3, with the additions of this document and linked Basketball England affiliation, please head over to our U10 Division 3x3 page for more information including registration, fees, fines and adopted policies. (please visit page and ensure to read all rules prior to registration or processing an payments).

 

in order to ensure our affiliation with Basketball England. All policies, rules and procedures not found with-in any of our documents, can be found at Basketball England.

 

Once read and happy with the content within this document and all adopted policies please head over to the desired division listed for more information including how to register:

 

U18 Division

U16 Division

U14 Division

U12 Division

U10 Division

 

By registering via PLAYHQ to play in this league as a club/player or to watch and support as a parent/gardian or a spectator you are agreeing to have read all the terms and conditions of this document. With the addition of all other adopted polices and procedures from Basketball England, FIBA 3x3 and PlayHQ and are confirming that you understood them completly, will adhere to said rules & policies at all times and are fully aware of the consequences should you fail to do so.

Index

Section 1 – General League Rules

Section 2 – Club Roles and Responsibilities

Section 3 – Coaches Roles and Responsibilities.

Section 4 – Players Roles and Responsibilities

Section 5 – Competition System / Basic Rules Amendments

Section 6 – Fines/Payments

Section 7- Spectator Code of Conduct

Section 8 – Zero Tolerance Policy

Section 9 – Accidents / Incidents

Section 10 – Investigations / Adopted Policies

Section 1

League Rules

 

a. Rules of play shall be the current rules of FIBA 5v5 with the additions and exceptions contained in this document (Section 5).

 

b. WGNBL will use a round of robin covering multiple games and followed by knock-out stage leading to a final showdown between the last two standing teams. All teams will get a minimum of one game against each opposition playing a minimum of 10 games per season including friendlies game allocated by the league during the knock-out stages.

 

c. Allow a minimum of 48 hours  for a league response for any email or query. For all formal Reports please see section 10 of this document.

 

d. Clubs can enter more than 1 team per division. Second team subject to 50% of registration payment but, full game day payment applies to all teams entered from the same club (See Section 6 & Section 1E)

 

e. Team can only register a maximum of 15 players per team and a minimum of 8. Clubs with multiple teams entered must have a total of 7 players locked to a team and 8 that may be used for the purpose of game day fulfillment in a second team. (Locked players are not interchangeable within the entered division and will only play for allocated team. Fine will apply should a team be found to use locked players in both team within the same division (See Section 6).

 

f. We are allowing players that are skilled to move up divisions for development and progression purposes, NOTE: this is based on age, height, ability and above all Parental/club risk assement that has to be completed and submited when applying for the move  (this document can be found in our H&S page). The transfer fee is of £20 see Section 6. Contact enquires@wegotnextbl.co.uk with the details and all completed forms in order to initiate the transfer.

(NOTE: all move up process will be assesed on a game to game basis ensuring all safety aspects are considered. In addition should there be a concern please note that changes will be made including not allowing player to continue untill they are of age for that division).

 

g. Trophies and medals shall be awarded. Please note that all trophies and medals will remain the property of the awarded club/players, except for the League Large cup which shall remain the property of the league and must be returned within 8 calendar weeks of the date awarded. Failure to do so will lead to a fine. (see section 6)

 

h. Any fixture changes will be made by the League, should any club wish to postpone or change a game/fixture please ensure to contact the league within 48 hours and give as much details as possible. (Note: as a League we will look to accommodate but a forfeit may be issued if no solution is found by the club not attending). Please note game day payment will still apply and are non-refundable regardless of solution found for both teams. fine will apply (See Section 6).

 

i. All breaches to this document or any adopted policy, within any of the leagues division will be initially investigated by the WGNBL using processes detailed in Section 10 of this document. Further actions or external intervention may be required dependant on the severity of the breach. This includes the intervention of Basketball england or any affiliated company such as PlayHQ or fiba3x3 to ensure our compliance. Note as a league all our appeals go through Basektball England.

 

j. Both teams will have the opportunity to have a minimum of 8 minutes warm up prior to the start of a game, 2 minutes break between each quarter, and a 5 minute break at the half time.

 

k. All our staff and volunteres are trainined in thier respective field. Note as members of WGNBL weather you are an official, refereee or volunteer please ensure to download, read, understand fully and sign our Staff Roles & Responsibilities available from our H&S page. Fine will apply for any breach of document (see section 6).

All members must have an active PlayHQ profile, Assistance on how to obtain is available from how to REGISTER.

(Note: any individual joining mid-season must complete this step 72 hours prior to game and ensure to have a green active licence at least 24hours prior to event. in addition keep league updated to prevent delays on game day).

 

l. In the event of a colour clash, coaches are allowed to find alternative means to continue with games (Referee to mediate and agree).

 

m. All players must be registered into any of our divisions no later than 14/09/2025. Failure to meet this deadline will result in late registration fee of £30 applied (See Section 6).

 

n. Teams may request the registration of further players during the season (deadline 01/02/2026). This will be granted only if the club/s ability to fulfil their remaining fixtures can be shown to be in doubt. Player must first register with Basketball England and ensure that they have and active Green Licence.

If such addition is required, please email enquiries@wegotnextbl.co.uk with the following information:

NOTE: No refunds will be given after payment is made, therefore ensure player passes all league checks and only pay once League has confirmed this information and requested the payment. (NOTE: after 01/02/2026 transfers and additional players registration will be closed)

 

o. Game ball will be provided by the league. Lead referee on the day will ensure the basketball is adequate for the game to be played.

 

p. A game will be forfeited by the offending team in any of the following situations and a fine applied (Section 6):

1. Non-attendance at match.
2. Playing a player under a false name.
3. Not meeting minimal requirements for bench on game day.
4. Team walks off from a match or other inappropriate behaviour.
5. Postponing a fixture less than 48 hours in advance.
6. Using an unqualified coach or a coach with lower than level 2 coaching qualification.
7. Playing an individual not registered with Basketball England or holding a valid PlayHQ green licence prior to game day/time.
8. Failing to pay accomulated league fees, fines/or game day fees prior to fixtures.
9. Club/Lead coach in breach of rules set by the league or any adopted policy, if no replacement can be found during live match forfeit will be issue and Section 1I / 2B

Please note a fine of £30 will apply for in addition to the game day payment should the league not be notified with in the given timeframe (see section 1H).

 

q. We understand the incline to approach committee members or members of staff and ask a question on the day. We ask your understanding in advance to only aproach in the event of an emergency or to report any miss conduct or breach of rules and code of conduct. Please allow all individuals on the day to do their job and not be distracted by something that can be an enquiry via our contact page

Section 2

Club Roles and Responsibilities

a. Clubs are to ensure that the lead coach controling the game in this league hold a minimum of a Basketball Coaching Level 2 Standard Qualification or higher. Failure to do so will result in removal from the league, all remaining games cancelled if no replacement found and a fine applied. See Section 6

 

b. Ensure that all Club personal hold a valid and active PlayHQ Green licence. Failure to comply will result in a fine (See Section 6)

 

c. All clubs registering 2 teams must ensure to have a total of 7 players locked to A and 7 Locked in B (team names to be issue by clubs), with the reamaining 8 to be used for the purpose of game day team fulfillment during game days. (Locked players are not interchangeable and must include players who are in multiple leagues). Fine will apply should a team be found to use locked players in both team within the same division (See Section 6).

 

d. Clubs are to register their team by the 14/09/2025, if not recieved invite via playHQ please ensure to contact the League and request one.

For information on how to register please click HERE.

 

e. Clubs registering are to pay an entry fee of £120 for the first team entered and £60 if entering a second team. Discounted option to pay for the full season is also available at £725, NOTE: register before the 14/09/2025 and take a 5% discount £689). This payment covers 1 team registration for all-season games up to/including the finals.

 

f. Clubs registering are to pay a fixed mandatory game day payment of £65, due 7 days prior to each game played by the club.  Failure to pay on time will lead to a fine (Section 6)

NOTE: for 3x3 Pricing and information please visit U10 Division

 

g. All fines are to be paid no later than 7 days of date issued, late charge will apply – (Section 6). 

 

h. Clubs are to ensure that all players/ clubs  are registered with Basketball England and PLAYHQ (Click Here for How) WGNBL no later than 14/09/2024. The use of unlicenced/unregistered players/coaches is prohibited by WGNBL. Failure will result in a fine to club and removal of said individual/s. fine will apply (See section 6).

 

i. All clubs playing will follow the Home (White/Light kit) v Away (Black/Dark kit) A Fine of £10 will be issued to any delays caused due to clubs arriving in the wrong colour.

 

j. As a league we will only store minimal information for players (e.i. Full name, DOB, Basketball England LP number and Player Jersey number). Please note that all clubs registered with WGNBL must provide evidence requested by the league/Basketball England/FIBA3x3 during an investigation within 24 hours of request, documents include:

1. Emergency contact details.
2. Parent/Guardian information.
3. Policies and procedures.
4. Proof of Coaches/Referees/Officials.
5. Parental Permision (for images, league division transfers).
6. Evidence of coaches’ credentials.
7. Additional documentation requested by Basketball England.

Failure to do so may lead to club suspension, all games forfeited, fines applied (See section 6).

k. Please note that as s league we accept fans from all entered cubs and more. Note that it is the sole responsibility of the club to ensure all fans read, understand and adhere to our Spectator code of conduct (Section 7) and be aware of our Zero Tolerance Policy and steps we will take as a league. (Section 8). A £80 Fine will be issue to club/s who are unable to show proof of taking necessary steps to  enforce this rule within the club and for any breach of this rule by club members.

l. As a club, please note that should you choose to withdrawal from the league after season starts, all fines and remaining gamedays payments will apply for the remainder of the un-played fixtures. (Section 6). This will not apply to clubs that choose the full payment, remember all payments are non-refundable once made and processed.

m. Please note that it is the clubs resposibilty to inform the league of any banned player/coaches or any staff personal, in other leagues or any individual that falls under invstigationcategory by either other leagues in the Region or Basketbal Engand as soon as possible. failure to comply will result in a fine applied (See Section 6).

 

n. Ensure that no banned/under investigation player is being used for any games during the season, fine wiill apply (see section 6)

 

Section 3

Coaches Roles and Responsibilities

 

a. Arrive on time to the venue for games games. repeated lateness will not be tolerated more than 2 late game or delays by the same coach will result in a fine.

 

b. Ensure to accept all referee calls even if they do not look to be accurate. 

 

c. Ensure that all game day team alloactions are completed no later than 12hours prior to 1st game tip time. failure and delays will lead to a fine (See section 6)

 

d. Maintain control of the bench and ensure players are seated and not interfering the game being played.

 

e. Ensure a fair player rotation by giving each payer a minimum of 3 minutes game time and remember its about the kids playing as much as winning.

 

f. Coaches are not allowed to full court press if winning by 15 points or more.

 

g. Please note that coaches have x2 30 second timeout in each half played. This cannot be carried and must be used only for that half. (if not used coach losses it). Note: x1 allowed in overtime.

 

h. Always act/behave in a respectful manner within the WGNBL:

1. No swearing.
2. No lashing out in anger
3. No smoking or vaping with in the premises.
4. No disrespectfully laughing at others.
5. Maintain discipline on the bench.
6. Actively encouraging players that may be behind in certain aspects of the game.

Failure to adhere to the 6 listed points above may lead to removal from premises game forfeit if no assistant coach available and a fine applied (See section 6)

 

i. Place the emotional and physical well-being of players ahead of a personal desire to win.

 

j. Treat each player as an individual, remembering the large range of emotional and physical development for the same age group.

 

k. Take reasonable measures to honour all commitments to players.

 

l. Lead by example in demonstrating fair play and sportsmanship to all players and peers (win or not), 

 

m. Remember that the league is juniors focused, and that the game is for juniors and not for adults.

 

n. Only 10 players out of the 15-roster allowed per game day, minimum of 5 players is required. Failure to comply may lead to ‘Section 1P’ and fine applied (See Section 6)

 

o. Please note we realise that baskeball is a game of trying and improving in all aspects, For the sake of developement ensure to follow the strict defensive alteration table set below:

P. Note: any coach found to be in breach or not adhearing any rule listed in Section 3 will be subject to a fine and investigation by the league depending on the severity of the breach the league will use of external governing bodies to aid with any action required.(See Section 6)

Section 4

Players Roles and Responsibilities

 

a. Arrive on time to venue and games

 

b. Respect the calls of officials and referees even if they appear to be wrong. (no lashing out, innapropriate or violent behaviour will be tolerated)

 

c. When coach asks you to substitute, please ensure to approach the tables and speak loudly and clear to request your own substitution.

 

d. Always act/behave in a respectful manner within the WGNBL: 

1. No swearing.
2. No kicking of basketballs in rage
3. No disrespectfully laughing at other players.
4. Maintain discipline on the bench.
5. Actively encouraging players that may be behind in certain aspects of the game.
6. A player may only play for one club/team within the league.
7. Any type of violence behaviour or lashing out will NOT be tolerated.
8. No standing up and interupting the game whislt on the bench.

 

e. If a participant is sanctioned (suspended) by 1 league within the region, note that this applies to all affiliated competitions within the regions untill the invetigation is completed and all correctve actions taken. (NOTE: said players will be dennied entry within We Got Next Basketball League untill licence is regained by the player)

 

f. if a participants has multiple offences of a serious nature over a period of time (2 or more) across different leagues please note that entry will be denied  by WGNBL. (Section 2m)

 

g. Failure to adhered by the above rules will lead removal from game on the day, a fine being applied to club (Section 6). In addition disciplinary action may be taken using our section 10 for investigations and Basketball England adopted disciplinary policy.

Section 5

Competition System / Basic Rules Amendments

All amendments in this section apply only to our U18, U16, U14 and U12 division, for all U10 division (3x3) Rules please visit FIBA3x3 Rules.

 

a. Please note adapted FIBA 5v5 rules will apply (amendments listed in this section of the document)

 

b. All scoring recording system will be with the use of PlayHQ

 

c. Match points shall be awarded as follows: Win 3, Draw 2, Loss 1, Forfeit 0.

 

d. Game score will be 2 points inside the 3-point line and 3 points outside of it.

 

e. Games will be played every 3 weeks (Sunday 11am start).

 

f. In games, player rotation is down to both coaches’ discretion (be mindgull of section 3E)

 

g. In the event of a team’s withdrawal or removal from the league, all remaining fixtures shall be awarded 20-0 and an automatic win to the opposing team/s. NOTE: all fees for game days must be paid by the club for all remaining fixtures left to play in the season no later than 7 days. (See Section 2L)

 

h. The game will consist of:

1. x4 10 minute quarters, totalling 40 minute games
2. There will be a 2 minute break per quarter and a 5 minute break at the half time for direction change. 

 

i. X2 30 sec time out allowed per half played. Lost if not used by the coach.

 

j. Players will foul out at 5 fouls. Team fouls after the 7 foul. 

 

k. Only x1 free-throw allowed for any foul committed. The free-throw will be scored at the total points that the foul is committed:

 

l. Inside will be 2 points (chance for a 4 point play if foul committed on the shot)

 

m. Outside the 3 points line will be 3 points (chance for a 6 points play if foul committed on the shot)

 

n. Running clock through-out the game with the exception that the referee on the day will have the power to stop the clock in the last 1 minute of each half played to ensure fairness and safety. or if the game is with in 15 points difference between wining or loosing.

 

o. There will be 2 x referee per game and x1 table official.

 

p. Substitutions will be actioned by the players, who will approach the tables and ask for substitution.

Section 6

Fines/Payments

For all U10 3x3 division Fees and fines information please head over to our U10 Division page

 

a. All our transactions once finalised are non-refundable.

 

b. Ensure to pay all fines no later than 7 days from the date of issue.

 

c. All game day payments must be made 7 days prior to game day.

 

d. Dependant on breach be aware that multiple fines may be issued.

 

e. All fees and fines are to be paid no later than the dates issued or allocated via bank transfer using the details below:

We Got Next Basketball League 

Account: 73165925

Sort code: 04-00-03

Ref: League will issue all fine references. Please note for game day ensure to place the date of game you are paying for making it easier to track. League will issue all fine references once issued.

 

f. Any additional games outside of the normal schedule will be charged at the rate of £65 per game played as written in Section 2F.

 

g. Fee/s listed below:

For any financial enquiries please email wgnblgeneralenquiries@gmail.com

Section 7

Spectator Code of Conduct

As a league we recognise that the support for our young players is vital to their success but, please be mindful that this is a junior league. Therefore, follow all rules/guidelines adopted or set by WGNBL ensuring that all presents can have a wonderful basketball experience. These include:

 

1. Display good sportsmanship by always respecting players, coaches, officials and any individual within the premises. 
2. No shouts, taunts or distraction noises will be tolerated, regardless of intent.
3. Act appropriately for the age group the league is aimed for.
4. Cheer in a positive manner and encourage fair play; profanity and objectionable cheers or gestures are offensive.  
5. Help provide a safe and fun environment; by removing rubbish and utilise the bins provided when finished.
6. Please do not step into the court whilst game is in play.
7. If you have a Basketball please ensure to to keep a hold of it during play time and present from boincing it.
8. Ensure to securely hold cups and drinks to prevent spillage.
9. Remove all rubish and place in the bins provided.
10. Support the referees and coaches by trusting their judgment and integrity.  
11. Be responsible for your own safety - be alert to prevent accidents from flying balls and other avoidable situations.  
12. Please respect the public toilets and think of the next individual coming in.
13. Please note should you require additional seating please inform a member of the league.
14. Be supportive after the game—win or not.  Recognize good effort, teamwork and sportsmanship.    
15. Please note if you have any small children please keep a mindful eye at all time, especially during live game times.

 

Failure to comply or adhere to the rules listed below will lead to removal from the premises and possible ban dependend on severity. (NOTE: use of police and other external governing bodies may be used to ensure safety of all present.

Section 8

Zero Tolerance Policy

The game will be stopped by game officials or league representatives when any individual displays inappropriate, disruptive behaviour in order to interfere with other spectators or the game. 

 

Any individual may  identify violators to members of the league present for the purpose of warning or removing individual from the premises.

 

Once removed, play will resume. Lost time will not be replaced, and violators may be subject to further disciplinary action by the emergency services should there be the need. 

 

This inappropriate and disruptive behaviour includes: 

 

1) Use of obscene or vulgar language in a boisterous manner to anyone at any time.  

2) Taunting of players, coaches, officials, or other spectators by means of baiting, ridiculing, threat of any type of violence.

3) Throwing of any object in the spectators viewing area, player’s bench, officials, tables or on the court surface, directed in any manner as to create a safety hazard or injury.

4) Violent or inapropriate behaviour of any type will not be tolerated.

5) Smoking or vaping within the premises at any time.

6) Alcohol and drugs consumption will not be tolerated within the premises at any time.

 

NOTE: if an individual is found to be in breach of these points you will be kindly asked to leave the premises and Police may/will be contacted if the situation requires so by a member of the league management team present or a member of staff. Once removed, play will resume. Lost time will not be replaced and Section 2R enforced. Violators may be subject to further disciplinary action by the local governing body and WGNBL.

 

Please do not hesitate to report any breach of this section to the league representative on the day or as soon as humanly possible. Alternative visit our Feedback and Report page for a more detailed report.

Section 10

Investigations/adopted Policies

For all adopted polices please visit Basketball England affiliation page

 

We take reports and any breach to our rules and code of conduct seriously, to ensure that We Got Next Basketball League provides high quality services to all customers, participants and visitors, we will take advantage of the investigation system to prevent, stop and eliminate any breaches within all documentation and process. The system will not only enable us to improve services for individual members, but also offer an ideal opportunity to make changes and improvements across the League and its policies/procedures.

We will Listen, Investigate, and act on all reports, complaints and information given to us by any member of the public, we will use external and emergency services to aid in said investigations or to ensure correct actions are taken. Support is available by Basketball England should you feel your complain/concern requires additional investigation, or if satisfaction is not met by We Got Next Basketball League in our final resolution.

 

1. Making the Report/Giving us Information
   
   If you are unhappy, witnessed an event/situation and would like to make a report to inform us of any breach of our policies, Rules and code of conduct so that the appropriate action is taken to stop or prevent any situation that might happen or has taken place, please fill in our Report Form,

 

Once the form has been completed and submitted, a committee League member will then use collated information and email back with a reference number for the complaint/information given and checking all information is correct. 

With this step we acknowledge and accept this information as a League. Please allow 24 hours for a response and 30 days for a full investigation to take place. Updates and additional information may be requested to aid with the investigation.

 

2. The investigation
   
   We will then gather all details reported, these details include:
   • The individual who is giving us the report, these include: name, address, and contact info.
   • Date and Time of incident.
   • Witnesses name, address, and telephone contact (if required).
   • Who or what they are reporting (if there is a named individual/or was it a group incident/anything else).
   • What club this person belongs to, where the incident took place.
   • A breakdown of the complaint/information into its individual points (if possible)

Once we have gathered all the information/evidence we will then take all relevant and necessary action to complete a full investigation and have an outcome within 30 days.

3. Outcome

Once the investigation is complete, all actions and outcome/s will be detailed in an email finalizing and closing the process/report. Should additional steps be required these will be outlined in the email.

Please note that all appeals, will be forwarded to Basketball England ensuring our BE Affiliation Compliance. Should you wish to start or to take these steps, please visit Basketball England (Apeals)

Alternatively, if you have any questions or concerns regarding this document, please do not hesitate to contact us via 

enquiries@wegotnextbl.co.uk