Class of 2025: Shaping Futures Through Basketball

The LDM Basketball Academy, delivered in partnership with Leeds City College, isn’t just about developing players — it’s about shaping futures. From the 6 players we have highlighted below from the Class of 2025, we’ve seen progression into university, the launch of new businesses, sought-after traineeships, and even two who received employment and an apprenticeship with us. Their journeys show the true power of opportunity, resilience, and the family spirit that defines LDM.

Max – Class of 2025

Arriving from London in Year 10 with a growing reputation, Max joined our U16s before stepping into the Academy. His first U18 Premier season was heartbreakingly cut short by a serious injury, but he battled back in year two despite never returning to 100%. Off the court, his talent for barbering has taken off — with Emz Fades gaining attention online. As his basketball journey closes, we can’t wait to see his business grow.

Max’s words:
“My time at LDM has been nothing short of amazing. When I moved from London in 2021, I wasn’t sure if there were any basketball teams around — but thankfully, I found LDM. Over the past four years, I’ve experienced plenty of highs and lows, but overall, it’s been an incredible journey.

The level of basketball here is seriously high, and I’ve had so many opportunities through this club. LDM isn’t just a team — it’s a family. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to pursue basketball at a competitive level.”

Roan – Class of 2025

Like Max, Roan joined us in his U16 year, at a time when he was close to quitting the game altogether. He rediscovered his love for basketball, thrived as starting point guard for our U18 and CBL teams in 24/25, and has now secured an extremely sought-after full-time traineeship with TSB Bank — earning a salary while training to rise through the organisation.

Roan’s words:
“My time at LDM Basketball has greatly helped me become a better version of myself from improving my qualifications at college, to being more confident to speaking to a wide range of people. They have given me tools and opportunities to continue within basketball, where I am now a Level 2 coach. I will also continue to play open age basketball, in the Leeds premier division.”

Jef – Class of 2025

Starting out in the AoC team after joining the academy from our U16s, Jef quickly proved himself as a key player, earning his place in the U18 Premier and CBL squads. A true example that it’s not about where you start, but where you finish! This year, he moves on to Manchester Metropolitan University to study Adult Nursing, where he will continue his basketball journey at BUCS level.

Jef’s words:
“My time at LDM made me realise that basketball goes far beyond just the game itself — it reaches a deeper level. In just one year, the support and camaraderie we built were incredible. My teammates and coaches encouraged me through challenges and obstacles throughout the Premier and CBL 2 seasons, showing me the true value of trust and teamwork.

They provided experiences and opportunities that not only helped me pursue my future in the sport but also prepared me for higher levels of basketball. Over the past two to three years with LDM, playing with these teams has been a journey of growth in both friendships and skills, on and off the court. They’ve helped me become not just a better player, but also a more confident and disciplined person.”

Sharkey – Class of 2025

Back in 2022, Michael Sharkey stepped up for U16 II trials and didn’t make the cut. For many, that could have been the end of the journey. But fate had other plans. A small admin error handed him a second chance and he grabbed it with both hands.

Since then, he hasn’t looked back. From battling his way into the U18 Premier squad just a year later, to coaching his peers in the Academy 2nd team and eventually completing his Level 2 coaching course, Sharkey has turned every setback into fuel.

Now, his next step is one of the biggest yet: taking the reins as Head Coach of our U16 Green team. From basketball setback to basketball leadership in just three years — Sharkey’s journey is proof that resilience pays off.

Sharkey’s words:
“My basketball journey at LDM began by not making any of the teams. Where most would probably have stopped playing, I kept going. Then, thanks to an accidental email from Loran, my journey really took off — I was given just 30 minutes to impress my coaches.

It feels like fate wanted me playing this sport. After two great years in the Academy, not only making friends but brothers along the way, I now find myself in the fortunate position of coaching the U16s.”

Shamari – Class of 2025

Not everyone’s path is straightforward and that’s certainly true for Shamari. Growing up just across the road from our Mandela Centre home court, there were moments when his journey could have taken a very different turn.

Since stepping into the Academy after being part of our very first U14 squad, Shamari has experienced the game at the highest levels of youth basketball. Off the court, he’s given back in a big way — coaching the next generation at weekly community sessions and holiday camps, and even leading the Academy team during our recent trip to Florida.

We are pleased at the way he has bounced back against some incredible odds and remained consistent with his coaching development. That’s why we’re proud to announce that this September, Shamari will begin a Community Sport and Health Officer Apprenticeship with LDM — becoming our very first apprentice coach.

Shamari’s words:
“My time at LDM has helped me both physically and mentally. At 13, I started attending LDM sessions and continued all the way through to college, playing CBL 3, U18 Premier, and Conference. During that time, I discovered I had a passion for coaching as well as playing. Loran, the founder, gave me his full support and helped me progress towards what I want to do. Now, at 18, I’m proud to be LDM’s first apprentice. LDM is supportive, caring, and ambitious!!”

Kevin’s words:
“My time at LDM has been amazing as it helped me become the person I am today and a basketball player I wouldn’t have thought I’d be right now. After arriving in the UK, I thought I wouldn’t play basketball ever again as I didn’t think there were any teams around the area. However, I was able to find LDM.

I’d like to thank Coach Mo, Coach Norman, Coach Jimmy, Coach Richard, Hamza, Dan, Loran, and all my teammates since the U16s who helped me during this journey to realise my potential and how to best utilise it, while also pushing me to continue pursuing basketball when I felt like I wasn’t going anywhere.

As I’ll continue playing in university, I’m grateful for the amount of opportunities given to me to play in high-level basketball and for teaching me skills that I’ve been able to showcase outside the basketball court.”

If you or a someone you know are interested in finding out more on the LDM Basketball academy, get in touch with us at info@letsdomore.org.uk.