Our History and Mission.
Our History
Founded in 2001 the club began at Beckfoot School in Bingley for under-16 boys. For the 2002/03 season we entered a team in the Leeds League and introduced training squads at both under 16’s and under 14’s.
In 2004, the Dragons entered teams into the English Basketball League in both the U14 and U16 categories, an U18 team into the Bradford League and the ever-increasing senior squad into the Yorkshire, Leeds, and Bradford leagues. The 2004 season also saw the introduction of training squads for U14 and U16 girls.
The club broke through to the ranks of the English Basketball League at senior level in 2005, entering a team into Division 3 North. Finishing fifth in our first season and narrowly missing a playoff position.
Dragons achieved promotion in the 2009/10 season, going up as the divisional champions, and reached the semi-final in the end of season playoffs. The following season, Dragons won the Division 2 title, clinching back-to-back promotions and again made the semi-finals of the playoffs.
During the 2013/14 season, Chris Mellor received the esteemed Division 1 Coach of the Year award after leading the Dragons to a fourth-place finish and a close semi-final loss in the end-of-season playoffs.
In 2019, the club forged a significant partnership with Calderdale College, launching our Academy programme. This collaboration created a unique pathway for aspiring players to combine high-level basketball training with their academic studies, allowing them to pursue qualifications while developing their sporting talent.
The club recently reached the 2024 Kit King Trophy final, narrowly losing to Derby Trailblazers.
For the 2025/06 season, the Dragons senior men's team are competing in the newly formed British Championship Basketball League, while a new mens team has entered the National Basketball League Division 3. The Calderdale Wheelchair Basketball Club has joined the Dragons, and our Academy teams continue to be partnered with Calderdale College. Junior squads play nationally at the U18, U16, and U14 levels and our senior men's Dragons 3 team are playing in the Leeds league. We continue to run U12 mixed sessions at various locations cross the region and we plan to reintroduce a women's team soon.
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower young people to reach their highest potential - both as athletes and individuals - by providing inclusive, high-quality basketball opportunities, fostering personal growth, and building a club that inspires pride and support throughout our community.