The Baller League final was a chance to talk to players about the first season while the competition was still fresh in their minds. I asked what they had enjoyed, what their teams learned and which opponents had been hardest to face. For some, six-a-side was familiar. For others, it was a new way to…
On the way to the Copper Box for season two's first matchday, I made a prediction for every game. I backed 26ers to beat United and expected our NDL squad to start strongly against N5. We had been training together for weeks, with talented players competing for a place in the matchday ten, and I…
After Baller League season two's opening matchday, I went back through my six predictions. I got three right and three wrong. I had backed 26ers against United, but my call on NDL versus N5 was way off: N5 beat us 3–1. It was a reminder that a team of strong individuals still needs time to…
At Baller League I spoke with a goalkeeper about what he had seen in the competition and how its smaller pitch changes the job. Low, quick shots demand sharp reactions. With fewer outfield players, a keeper also has to be comfortable receiving and moving the ball with his feet. He saw that as part of…
Before matchday two, I went through each Baller League fixture and made my calls. MVPs versus M7 looked tight enough for a draw. I backed Vision against Ruckus and 26ers against N5. For our own match, I predicted NDL would beat Depo Trio, even though I was not in the matchday squad. Watch Jordan Antonio…
Matchday two gave us draws, comebacks and another reminder that a Baller League game can turn in a game changer. I had predicted MVPs and M7 would draw, and they finished 4–4. Vision caught my eye again, especially Josh Parker, whose goals made him my player of the night. Watch Jordan Antonio Brown discuss Baller…
I had to wait until week seven for my first Baller League appearance with NDL that season. Injuries and club commitments opened up places in the matchday squad. You never wish that on teammates, but when an opportunity comes, you have to be ready to use it. Watch Jordan Antonio Brown discuss My First NDL…
When Baller League UK was first announced, I was unsure whether it was for me. I had spent my career in eleven-a-side football, and I did not know whether a competition involving creators and former professionals would be serious. Going to the trial turned out to be a decision I am glad I made. Watch…
Twelve weeks of Baller League led us to the Final Four at the Copper Box. In this vlog, I take you behind the scenes as NDL prepare to face SDS, with the chance to reach the final on the line. The arena, the noise and the people around the competition made it a big occasion….
In this episode I spoke openly about where I was in football at the time: playing for Burnham, thinking about the Premier League and deciding whether to return to NDL for another Baller League season. The decision was not only about appearing in more games. I wanted to believe the team could compete to win….
