British Basketball League (BBL) team Glasgow Rocks is set for a new “leading-edge” arena following a takeover deal.
Caledonia Basketball Holdings Ltd, fully owned by Steve and Alison Timoney, have purchased 100% of the shares in Rocks Basketball Ltd, the company which owns and runs Scotland’s sole professional basketball franchise and the only non-English team competing in the BBL.
Since taking over in 2017, the current ownership has steered the club to be a successful community-based commercial enterprise, founded Rocks in the Community, taken the team through the challenges of COVID-19 and kept it competitive in the BBL.
The Rocks have played at Glasgow’s Emirates Arena since 2012, but the new owners have outlined another vision for the team. Steve Timoney said: “We have been clear in our commitment to build a purpose-built, leading-edge arena that will provide a platform for this club and our WBBL club, Caledonia Gladiators, to compete at the top level, and for basketball in Scotland to build on what is already a very strong and loyal fan base.
“Those plans are coming together. When completed, we believe Glasgow Rocks will thrive in an environment where we will see basketball of the highest standard, in a modern arena with the kind of technology and facilities that fans want to experience.”
Commenting on the takeover, outgoing owner Duncan Smillie said: “After five years of being the privileged custodian at Rocks, it is time to hand over the ball to Steve and Alison. They have phenomenal energy and passion for the game and will be great owners. Make no mistake this is a game changer for Glasgow Rocks.
“The last five years have been great fun on a personal level, COVID aside, and whilst no silverware was delivered, I’m still immensely proud of where the franchise is today. We are a stable, financially secure club in a very challenging sport that is ready to move forward to the next level.”
Image: Cutkiller2018/CC BY-SA 4.0/Edited for size
Share this