Clark and Jackson announced the new brand in a statement, external on their account on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.

The move will ensure elite level basketball can continue in Surrey and Guildford, remaining at the Surrey Sports Park – home to the Scorchers since 2015.

Basketball League Ltd (BLL) had its contract terminated last month after the British Basketball Federation (BBF) received information on its finances that suggested BLL was “no longer able to carry out its functions”.

The BLL had operated the men’s game since being awarded a 10-year licence by the sport’s governing body in 2017.

A three-year interim licence has since been awarded to Premier Basketball Ltd, formed by a consortium of British clubs which includes the 89ers, Clark confirmed.

“We are very much part of elite basketball in the UK and very much looking forward,” he said.

Clark confirmed Lloyd Gardner would continue as head coach of the team.