George Bates Named Head Coach of Great Britain Wheelchair Basketball Team
A remarkable journey has culminated in a full-circle moment for George Bates, who has been appointed head coach and player development coach of the Great Britain men’s wheelchair basketball team. Bates’ appointment marks a significant step for the program, building on a legacy of success and personal resilience.
Bates’ connection to the GB team runs deep, having been a pivotal player during their historic 2018 World Championships victory – the nation’s first-ever global gold medal in the sport. This achievement cemented his place in British wheelchair basketball history.
The path to coaching wasn’t without extraordinary challenges. In 2020, Bates faced a heartbreaking dilemma: he considered undergoing a leg amputation in a desperate attempt to remain eligible for international competition. He had been informed that his existing disability classification no longer met the sport’s requirements. This difficult consideration underscored the complexities of athlete classification in para-sports.
Bates’ athletic journey began at age 11 when a football injury led to complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), a chronic condition characterized by persistent, severe pain. Despite this ongoing battle, he persevered, demonstrating incredible determination both on and off the court.
The 31-year-old brings a wealth of coaching experience to the role. He successfully led Team UK at the Invictus Games in 2023 and is slated to do so again in July 2025. Furthermore, he guided Loughborough Lightning to three Premier League titles, showcasing his tactical acumen and leadership skills.
“Being appointed GB coach felt ‘a bit like a full circle moment for me’,” Bates stated, reflecting on his long association with the program. His appointment signals a new era for Great Britain wheelchair basketball, blending a deep understanding of the game with a proven track record of success and a profound empathy for the challenges faced by athletes.
Bates’ story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unwavering spirit of competition. His leadership promises to inspire a new generation of wheelchair basketball players in Great Britain.
