Scotland’s basketball team, Caledonia Gladiators, and global sports brand Reebok have launched a new campaign celebrating the transatlantic connection between basketball’s American roots and the rapidly growing game in Scotland.
Building a Basketball Nation marks the official kit launch for the 2026/27 season, bringing together professional players with young people from the local community to explore how a game born in America has found a home in Scotland.
The campaign comes as Boston and Glasgow prepare to become sister cities, strengthening a long-standing connection between the two cities and their shared sporting and cultural heritage.
Shot within Caledonia Gladiators’ home arena and Glasgow Life’s basketball court in Victoria Park, the film sees the next generation of Scottish players take to the court alongside American and Scottish professional players. It celebrates the moments that make basketball more than just a sport – from the sound of a ball hitting concrete to the squeak of trainers on the court, and the voices of friends, families and teammates coming together.
At the heart of the campaign is a simple message: while basketball was built in America, Scotland is building its own basketball nation.
Bringing together players from different backgrounds, ages and stages of their basketball journeys, the film highlights the role of the game in connecting communities and inspiring the next generation.
The partnership also marks the continued relationship between Reebok and Caledonia Gladiators, united by a shared belief in the power of sport, community and culture to bring people together.
Caledonia Gladiators are celebrating their growing fanbase for the 2026/27 season so far, with a sellout game at the men’s first home game on 21st September and a 128% increase in the women’s season opener from 2025/26.
Tony McDaid, CEO of Caledonia Gladiators, said: “Ultimately, we’re focused on building a basketball nation in Scotland.
“Basketball is one of the country’s most-played sports, from schools and community courts to games in gardens across the country.
“We know American professional basketball is something many people watch and enjoy, but we’re bringing that live basketball experience to our communities here in East Kilbride, Glasgow and further afield.
“Our new campaign celebrates the real shift we’ve seen in basketball in Scotland over the last few years. Our fanbase has grown significantly, we’re engaging with more young people than ever before, and we regularly see fans out in the community wearing our Reebok kit. That’s something we’re incredibly proud of.
“It’s fantastic to continue our longstanding partnership with Reebok. Together, we’re helping to grow the game, connect communities and build a basketball nation.”
John Carden, Managing Director of Sports Hub Brands, teamwear partner of Reebok, said: “Basketball has always been about more than what happens on the court. It creates connections, inspires communities and brings people together through a shared love of the game.
“Building a Basketball Nation captures that perfectly, celebrating the sport’s American heritage while recognising the exciting growth of basketball in Scotland.
“We’re proud to continue our partnership with Caledonia Gladiators and support their ambition to grow the game, inspire the next generation and build a basketball culture that can continue to grow for years to come.”
As they strive to build a basketball nation, Caledonia Gladiators work closely with Basketball Scotland to build momentum for the sport across the county.
David Fallon, Chief Executive Officer of Basketball Scotland, said: “The continued growth of basketball in Scotland depends on all parts of the game working together, from our clubs and community programmes through to the professional game.
“We’ve been pleased to work closely with Caledonia Gladiators to help raise the profile of basketball, inspire more young people to pick up a ball and strengthen the connection between grassroots participation and the opportunities people can see at the highest level of the game.
“There is real momentum around basketball in Scotland, and showcasing the sport in our communities and giving young people visible role models can play an important part in turning that interest into lasting participation.”
The 2026/27 Reebok x Caledonia Gladiators kit is now available to purchase within the merchandise shop open on gamedays at Caledonia Gladiators’ home arena at Playsport, as well as online at www.caledoniagladiators.com.
Caledonia Gladiators are Scotland’s professional basketball team, playing at the highest level of basketball within the UK’s Super League Basketball. Tickets start from just £5 for men’s and women’s fixtures. To find out more and book your seat, visit www.caledoniagladiators.com.
To view the full Building a Basketball Nation film, fans can watch via:
