High Hoops Brings Fast-Paced Comedy and Basketball Action to CBBC

Image: BBC Press

By Jon Donnis

CBBC's latest comedy series High Hoops is set to hit screens on Monday 17 March, bringing a mix of sharp humour, heart, and basketball action. Starring Peep Show favourites Robert Webb and Isy Suttie, alongside rising star Darci Hull, the show follows the highs and lows of a reckless but determined high school basketball player as she chases success, friendship, and the perfect hook shot.

Hull plays Aoife O'Neill, a tall, accident-prone teenager whose arrival at a new school shakes up its struggling 3x3 basketball team. While Aoife dreams of reinventing herself, she quickly realises that the only place she truly belongs is on the court – even if her new teammates are far from champions. Robert Webb stars as headteacher Mr Holt, Isy Suttie plays Aoife's mum Bríd, and Line of Duty's Nigel Boyle takes on the role of Coach Jim, the weary but well-meaning leader of the underdog squad.

Created and written by Sinéad Fagan, a lifelong basketball player and coach, High Hoops delivers a fast-paced, aspirational comedy set in an urban comprehensive school. Aoife regularly breaks the fourth wall, speaking directly to the audience in a way that captures the inner thoughts and self-doubt of teenage life. "As a teenager, you're always having to present a face when you're actually thinking something else," Fagan explains. "Aoife likes to big herself up a bit but then bring herself down."

Filmed in Halifax, West Yorkshire, the series is a testament to the BBC's commitment to showcasing homegrown talent and storytelling. BBC Children's and Education Director Patricia Hidalgo is so confident in the show's appeal that a second series has already been commissioned before the first has even aired. "It has a stellar cast with Robert Webb, Isy Suttie, and Nigel Boyle, and the children's cast are also amazing," Hidalgo says. "Darci Hull as Aoife is one to watch – she will go far!"

Produced by Yorkshire-based CanCan Productions, with international distribution handled by APC Kids, High Hoops is set to bring energy, laughter, and inspiration to young audiences. The show's producer is Dominique Molloy, with Ian Curtis as lead director. Commissioning was overseen by Patricia Hidalgo, Sarah Muller, Melissa Hardinge, and Anita Burgess for CBBC.

Catch High Hoops from 6.25pm on Monday 17 March on CBBC and BBC iPlayer.