EXCITING GB PROSPECT FROM COLBC ASCENDS TO WEABL WITH NOTTINGHAM WILDCATS.

COLBC’s Pearline Boateng will make a commitment to maximise on her potential by transitioning to the Nottingham Wildcats Academy of the WEABL this September.

Pearline is another young female who we are celebrating as she turns her focus to her post-16 education and stepping in to WEABL competition. The GB U16’s squad member has committed to the Nottingham Wildcats Academy under the stewardship of former GB International Player and National Team Coach Siobhán Prior.

COLBC Director Matt Newby was keen to highlight the significant potential that Pearline has and how far she could go:

“Pearline is still evolving as a player and is one of the best domestic prospects in her age group. She has NCAA D1 potential and the ability to use basketball as an opportunity to secure an excellent education and potentially step in to the professional domain in the future. She is a great advertisement for our women’s and girls pathway and I wish her all the very best in her ascension."

Pearline was thankful of the support she has had since picking up a ball with the City Of Leeds Basketball Club:

“COLBC has been a huge part of my journey, both on and off the court. The coaches, my teammates, and the wider club community have supported me, challenged me, and helped me grow not only as a player but as a person. I'm incredibly grateful for the experiences, the friendships, and the lessons I've learned during my time here. They helped build a strong foundation that has taken me far with the span of only three years. my passion for basketball has grown immensely and I’m ready to step up to a bigger platform. I will be continuing my journey with the Nottingham Wildcats Academy. This is only the beginning… My dearest thanks go to the coaches, friends, pro players that have helped me to exceed in this field.”

We took the time to speak to Pearline's former coaches so they could wish her well in the exciting next steps of her journey.

Coach Ben Allen was excited to see Pearline aim to reach her potential:

“It’s not every day that a 12-year-old standing over 6 feet tall walks into the gym asking to play basketball but that’s exactly how Pearline made her entrance. From day one, her bright smile, calm demeanour and quiet confidence stood out. She brought a positive energy to every session and quickly became an integral part of the team. not just because of her size or potential, but because of her attitude, work ethic and willingness to support others. Pearline has always been a team-first player, always ready to learn, grow and lift up those around her. Coaching her has been absolute pleasure and it’s clear to me that it’s just the beginning of something special. There’s greatness in her future and I’m excited to see her continue her journey with the Nottingham Wildcats.”

Coach Katie Lamond was delighted to see Pearline taking this next step in her development:

“We couldn’t be prouder of Pearline and everything she has achieved during her time with us at COLBC. From the very start she showed so much potential and over the years it has been incredible to watch her grow, both as a player and as a person. She is a player who has embraced feedback and guidance from those around her and worked hard to make changes, to help not only her performance, but her overall game. I know that this attitude will help carry her to even greater success in the future. Seeing Pearline step out of her comfort zone and really come into her own these past few seasons has been a privilege to witness. She’s become such an important part of our team, not just for her ability to impact the game at both ends of the floor, but for the energy and presence she brings every time she steps on the court. There aren’t many players with her physique who can move the way she does. It's a rare gift, and it’s been a game-changer for us. I’m so excited to see where this next chapter with Nottingham takes her. I have no doubt she’s going to shine and dominate at the very highest levels.”

Coach Bob Muir was hopeful of a bright future for Pearlin:

“It is with mixed emotions that we announce the departure of Pearline Boateng, our back-to-back Most Promising Prospect Award winner. While we are saddened to see her leave, we are incredibly proud of all she has achieved during her time with the club. Pearline has been a standout presence on the court, consistently bringing energy and establishing herself as a dominant defensive force. Her ability to secure crucial rebounds and deliver game-changing blocks made significant impact on our team’s performance and defensive culture. Beyond her physical talent, Pearline’s commitment to improving every day coupled with her personal character point to an exciting journey ahead in the game. Coaching Pearline has been a privilege, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for her.”

Everyone at the City Of Leeds Basketball Club wishes Pearline the very best as she starts this exciting new step in her journey.