The Bay Area Bobcats, one of the premier franchises in the National Basketball League–United States (NBL–US), are proud to announce the hiring of Rana White as the team’s new General Manager. White succeeds Thomas Williams Jr., who departed following the 2023 season to assume the same position with the reigning NBL–US Champion Gueydan Flying Ducks.

Rana White makes history as the second General Manager in Bayarea Bobcats history, bringing with her a reputation for talent development, executive discipline, and a deep understanding of player-community synergy. In addition to leading the Bobcats' men’s team, White will also oversee operations and development for the WNBL sister team, the Bayarea Lady Bobcats.

A Legacy Worth Building On: The History of the Bay Area Bobcats

Founded in 2020, the Baytown Bobcats entered the NBL–US as part of the league’s first wave of regional expansion. From their early seasons as scrappy underdogs to their recent emergence as a perennial championship contender, the Bobcats have remained committed to excellence, community outreach, and player growth.

• 2020: Franchise established as part of NBL–US expansion into the Greater Houston Area.

• 2023: Advanced to the league semifinals under head coach DeAndre Townsel.

• 2025: Reached the NBL–US Championship Game, ultimately falling to the undefeated Gueydan Flying Ducks in a hard-fought contest led by youngest coach in NBL-US History Des'Rick "Dee" Payne.

• 2026 and Beyond: Poised for another title run with the return of core talent, a passionate coaching staff, and new executive leadership under Rana White.

Statement from Kevin Williams Sr., President, NBL–US

“Rana White is one of the sharpest minds in professional basketball,” said Kevin Williams Sr., President of the NBL–US. “Her leadership style is rooted in accountability, innovation, and a genuine connection to players and community. With her background and vision, I’m confident she will guide the Bobcats—and the Lady Bobcats—into an era of championship-level consistency. We are proud to welcome her into the NBL–US executive family, and we expect great things for Bayarea under her stewardship.”

Statement from Rana White, General Manager, Bay Area Bobcats

“This is more than a job—it’s a calling,” said Rana White. “I am incredibly honored to take the reins of the Bayarea Bobcats, a franchise with a strong foundation and enormous potential. Coach Dee Payne has built something special on the hardwood, and I plan to give him every resource necessary to take the next step: a championship.”

“But this role extends beyond one team. I’m equally thrilled to help lead our Lady Bobcats, an organization with untapped potential in the women’s game. I believe both teams can and should be contenders every season—and that begins with a winning culture, player-first mentality, and unmatched community engagement.”

“My immediate goals include solidifying our player pipeline through August tryouts, building strong partnerships with Bayarea businesses, and establishing the Bobcats and Lady Bobcats as year-round institutions of pride, not just during the season. The Bobcats are ready to rise—not just back to the Finals, but to the top. And I promise our fans: we will fly that banner together.”

Looking Ahead: 2026 Season & Tryout Information

• NBL–US Season Tip-Off: January 24, 2026

• Opening Matchup: Championship rematch on the road vs. Gueydan Flying Ducks

• Home Venue: World Gym– Texas City, TX

• August Tryouts:

  • Men’s Team (Baytown Bobcats): Open tryouts scheduled for early August

  • Women’s Team (Lady Bobcats – WNBL): Tryout dates to be announced mid-July

  • Registration info and waiver forms will be available on the official website

About the Bay Area Bobcats

Since their establishment in 2020, the Bayarea Bobcats have been one of the NBL–US’s most dynamic franchises. Known for high-tempo basketball, youth development, and record-setting fan engagement, the Bobcats are a model for small-market excellence. The organization also supports a WNBL team, the Lady Bobcats, offering equal opportunity and exposure to women athletes in Baytown and surrounding areas.

For More Information

Visit the official website: www.baytownbobcatsbc.com
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