Newcastle Eagles’ star Darius Defoe has been awarded the coveted Freedom of Newcastle following a special council meeting.

The club and British basketball legend was nominated in recognition of his 22-seasons representing the city and his tireless work in the community.

Originally born in Dominica, Defoe moving to the UK at the age of 10 and relocated to Newcastle from London at 18.

The 6’8 forward helped the Eagles dominate UK basketball and pick up all of the club’s 28 trophies during an illustrious career.

Speaking at the special council meeting this week, Cllr Colin Ferguson, leader of Newcastle City Council, said: “Darius has represented Newcastle Eagles with exceptional distinction, playing a pivotal role in the most successful period of the club’s history.

“He is one of the most distinguished figures in British basketball history. His accomplishments on the court have brought pride, recognition and prestige to Newcastle, helping establish our city as a centre of excellence for basketball in the United Kingdom.”

The 41-year-old has also been recognised for his work away from the court, having been an ambassador for the Eagles Community Foundation, visiting countless schools, leading coaching sessions, and serving as a role model, inspiring young people along the way.

“Throughout his career Darius has served as a role-model to countless young people across Newcastle and the wider North East,” Cllr Colin Ferguson added.

“Through his support for community initiatives, school visits and youth engagement programmes, he has inspired generations to participate in sport, believe in their own potential and embrace the values of hard work, resilience and teamwork.

“His impact can be measured not only in silverware but lives influenced, ambitions nurtured and opportunities created for young people across our region.

“He chose simply not to play for Newcastle but to build his life here, invest in the community, and become part of the fabric of our city. For more than 20 years, he represented Newcastle with humility, professionalism and pride, earning the respect and admiration of teammates, opponents and supporters alike.

“The Honorary Freedom of the City is one of Newcastle’s highest civic distinctions, reserved for those whose contributions have left a lasting and positive mark upon our city. Through sporting excellence, community leadership, public service and unwavering commitment to Newcastle, Darius has more than earned his place among those distinguished individuals.”

A ceremony will be arranged at a future date to present Darius with the award and to sign the official register of Honorary Freeman.

“To be honoured with Freedom of the City is incredibly special. I was warmly welcomed by Newcastle and it has been my home since moving away from London when I was 18-years-old,” said Defoe.

“The love and support I’ve received from the Geordie people throughout my career has meant everything to me. I’m proud of everything my teammates and I achieved together on the court at Newcastle Eagles through the years, but I’m equally proud of the work we’ve done in the community.

“If I’ve been able to inspire young people across the North East to believe in themselves and work hard to achieve their goals, then that’s a legacy I will always be proud of.

“This award is such an honour, for me and my family, and I am truly grateful.”

Defoe retired from playing this summer after making the announcement at the club’s end of season supporters night at the Vertu Arena to a standing ovation from Eagles fans, young and old.

Paul Blake, Newcastle Eagles managing director, said: “I distinctly remember the day we invited Darius up to Newcastle from London. What materialised from that moment is a story that will not be repeated. He went on to become the most successful player in British basketball history, dedicating his entire professional career to one club.

“On behalf of everyone at Newcastle Eagles and Eagles Community Foundation, we are absolutely delighted that Newcastle City Council has recognised Darius with its Freedom of the City award. It is a fitting tribute to someone who has been a true ambassador for both our club and our city.

“Darius is a genuine sporting legend and his achievements go far beyond the court with the impact he has made in our community. He has built a legacy here and is truly deserving of this honour.”