The Surrey 89ers are proud to announce the official launch of the Niners Player Development Programme (PDP), a comprehensive new initiative designed to identify, nurture, and accelerate basketball talent across the region and beyond.
Rooted in elite standards and long-term player growth, the programme is open to athletes from all clubs who are serious about taking their game to the next level.
Built around a multi-channel model that includes on-court skills, off-court learning, high-performance camps, and international travel, the Niners Player Development Programme sets a new benchmark for basketball excellence in the UK.
“This programme is about more than talent. It’s about development, discipline, and creating opportunities for players who want to go further,” said Dan Clark, Co-Owner and GM of the Surrey 89ers. “Whether it’s refining skills, building basketball IQ, or competing on an international stage, we’re providing a complete pathway for committed athletes.”
At the heart of the Niners Player Development Programme is a simple mission: to develop serious players into well-rounded athletes equipped for the demands of elite-level basketball. The programme is built for those who have already shown ability or the potential to reach a higher level and provides the environment, resources, and challenges needed to unlock that next step.
Open to players from any club, the programme promotes collaboration, competition, and a growth mindset. Each initiative under the Player Development Programmeumbrella is designed to complement existing team commitments while elevating the overall training experience.
The Player Development Programme initially comprises four programs:
Niners Skills Lab:
Niners Skills Lab is a weekly training programme focused on individual skill development for players competing at or near the National League level. Designed to complement team practices and game schedules, the Skills Lab offers a focused, high-rep environment where athletes can refine core skills, improve decision-making, and develop their all-around game.
Each cycle lasts 6–7 weeks and follows a structured curriculum tailored to help players take the next leap in their development.Open to serious athletes with aspirations of elite basketball, the Skills Lab is where focused practice turns into real progress.
The Learning Lab:
The Learning Lab is the Niners’ online development platform, designed to expand player knowledge and performance intelligence beyond the court. Delivered weekly by a team of expert coaches and specialists, each session explores one of four key pillars: physical development, video analysis, mental skills, and mentoring/career guidance.
From deep breakdowns of elite-level concepts to insights on strength, recovery, mindset, and career pathways, the Lab equips players with the tools to think, prepare, and perform like professionals. It’s where aspiring athletes gain the off-court edge needed to succeed at the next level.
Niners Performance Camps:
Niners Performance Camps are high-intensity, holiday-based training camps designed for players already competing at an advanced level, including National League athletes and those with aspirations of reaching the elite tier of the game. Open to players from any club, the camps are built around competitive drills, advanced skill development, and structured team concepts.
Unlike recreational or community-based sessions, Performance Camps offer a challenging environment led by experienced coaches, focused on pushing players beyond their comfort zone. These camps provide a serious platform for growth, preparation, and performance.
Niners Select:
Niners Select is the international travel team arm of the Niners Player Development Program. It offers players the opportunity to compete internationally while gaining invaluable life experience through travel and cultural exposure. Open to applicants across multiple age groups, Niners Select forms age-banded teams in preparation for specific overseas tournaments and events.
Designed to challenge athletes beyond domestic basketball, it blends high-level competition, team cohesion, and international learning. Players apply for selection when events are announced, with each experience focused on development, exposure, and personal growth, on and off the court.
The first PDP initiative to launch will be the Niners Performance Camps, taking place on 27–28 December 2025 at Surrey Sports Park. Camps will run across two age groups (10–13 and 14–16) and will take place from 10:00 am–2:00 pm each day, with involvement from Surrey 89ers staff and players.