Joe Ikhinmwin

Born in East London in Newham,{{Cite web |title=Founder Joseph Ikhinmwin |url=https://icanwinfoundation.co.uk/home/foundation/meet-our-founder/ |access-date=2024-06-17 |website=ICanWin Foundation}} Ikhinmwin began playing basketball at the age of 14.{{cite web

|url= http://www.sportsforschools.org/the-athletes/

|title = All Sports for Schools athletes have represented Great Britain or Ireland at the highest level in various Olympic disciplines

|publisher= sportsforschools.org

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20161209024150/http://www.sportsforschools.org/the-athletes/

|archivedate = 2016-12-09

|accessdate=2017-10-30}} Though he initially showed interest in playing football, it was with the suggestion of his P.E. teacher and the support of his father that he turned his focus to basketball. He started his career at East London Royals Junior program based in Whitechapel under the supervision of the late Humphrey Long and Chris Morgan.{{cite web

|url= http://www.reachandteach.co.uk/not-your-average-joe-joseph-ikhinmwin/

|title = Not Your Average 'Joe': Joseph Ikhinmwin

|publisher= reachandteach.co.uk

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20171107191311/http://www.reachandteach.co.uk/not-your-average-joe-joseph-ikhinmwin/

|archivedate = 2017-11-07

|accessdate=2017-11-07}}

In 2006, Ikhinmwin transferred to Barking Abbey Basketball Academy. He was selected to represent Great Britain at FIBA U18 and was then chosen as the U20 team captain playing in 2007.{{cite web

|url= http://www.gbbasketball.com/downloads/Pilot_Qs_Barking.pdf

|title = Frequently Asked Questions: Barking Abbey Regional Institute of Basketball

|publisher= gbbasketball.com

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20120424222133/http://www.gbbasketball.com/downloads/Pilot_Qs_Barking.pdf

|archivedate = 2012-04-24

|accessdate=2017-10-30}}{{cite web

|url= http://www.eurobasket.com/United-Kingdom/news/500661/Ikhinmwin-re-signs-at-London-Lions

|title = Ikhinmwin re-signs at London Lions

|date=2017-08-01

|publisher= Eurobasket.com

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20171030193919/http://www.eurobasket.com/United-Kingdom/news/500661/Ikhinmwin-re-signs-at-London-Lions

|archivedate = 2017-10-30

|accessdate=2017-10-30}} Additionally, in 2006–2007, he played for the NBL Division I London Leopards.{{cite web

|url= http://www.worthingherald.co.uk/sport/football/london-leopards-104-worthing-thunder-111-league-feb-3-2007-1-233398

|title = London Leopards 104 Worthing Thunder 111 (League, Feb 3 2007)

|author = Alan Sweetman-Hicks

|date=2007-02-07

|publisher= worthingherald.co.uk

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20171030195200/http://www.worthingherald.co.uk/sport/football/london-leopards-104-worthing-thunder-111-league-feb-3-2007-1-233398

|archivedate = 2017-10-30

|accessdate=2017-10-30}}{{cite web

|url= http://www.hertfordshiremercury.co.uk/Leopards-urge-fans-turn-force/story-21992994-detail/story.html

|title = Leopards urge fans to turn out in force

|date=2007-02-04

|publisher= Hertfordshire Mercury

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20171030153729/http://www.hertfordshiremercury.co.uk/leopards-urge-fans-turn-force/story-21992994-detail/story.html

|archivedate = 2017-10-30

|accessdate=2017-10-30}}

After graduating from Barking Abbey School sixth form, Ikhinmwin left Britain to study at Seminole State College in Oklahoma, where he played from 2007 to 2010 for the [https://www.sscathletics.com/sports/mbkb/index Trojans] (NJCAA).{{cite web

|url= https://basketball.realgm.com/player/Joe-Ikhinmwin/Summary/23631

|title = Joe Ikhinmwin F #7

|publisher= basketball.realgm.com

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170307001814/https://basketball.realgm.com/player/Joe-Ikhinmwin/Summary/23631

|archivedate = 2017-03-07

|accessdate=2017-11-03}} He sat out his first year due to a back injury but showed good performance in the last two seasons. The Trojans won the Bi-State Conference championship in 2008 with a 21–9 record. Eventually, Ikhinmwin began getting scouted by NCAA universities with his growing success.{{Cite web |title=Joseph Ikhinmwin Timeline Events |url=https://247sports.com/Player/joseph-ikhinmwin-61102/TimelineEvents/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=247sports.com}}

In 2009, Ikhinmwin committed to transferring to HBCU South Carolina State University. In 2010, he joined the NCAA Division I South Carolina State Bulldogs in the MEAC for the 2010–2012 seasons.{{cite web

|url= http://www.brentwoodlive.co.uk/sport/8237536.National_call_up_for_former_Leopards/

|title = National call-up for former Leopards

|date = 2010-07-24

|author = Dan Clark

|publisher= brentwoodlive.co.uk

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20171103124530/http://www.brentwoodlive.co.uk/sport/8237536.National_call_up_for_former_Leopards/

|archivedate = 2017-11-03

|accessdate=2017-11-03}}{{cite web

|url= http://www.hoopsfix.com/2010/04/joe-ikhinmwin-signs-to-south-carolina-state/

|title = Joe Ikhinmwin Signs to South Carolina State

|date = 2010-04-29

|author = Sam Neter

|publisher= hoopsfix.com

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20111216080838/http://www.hoopsfix.com/2010/04/joe-ikhinmwin-signs-to-south-carolina-state/

|archivedate = 2011-12-16

|accessdate=2017-11-03}} Ikhinmwin wore the jersey number "0" and started 15 of 27 games in 2011 and 2012 where he averaged 6 points and 4 rebounds per game.{{cite web

|url= http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/52268/joe-ikhinmwin

|title = Joe Ikhinmwin

|publisher= ESPN

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20171106181356/http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/52268/joe-ikhinmwin

|archivedate = 2017-11-06

|accessdate=2017-11-06}} He set his career high at SCSU with 21 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal on 8 for 11 shooting in February 2012 against the North Carolina Central Eagles.{{Cite web |title=Men's Basketball vs North Carolina-Central on 2/13/2012 - Box Score |url=https://www.scsuathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/stats/2011-12/north-carolina-central/boxscore/1664 |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=South Carolina State University Athletics}}

Ikhinmwin returned to the UK for his rookie season in 2012/2013 as a member of Newcastle Eagles. During his time there he finished with runner-up medals in the BBL regular season, Playoffs, and Cup{{cite web

|url= http://bbl.org.uk/london-calling-for-joe/

|title = London Calling For Joe

|date = 2013-08-21

|publisher= British Basketball League

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20171106193812/http://bbl.org.uk/london-calling-for-joe/

|archivedate = 2017-11-06

|accessdate=2017-11-06}} before returning to London and signing to his hometown.{{Cite web |title=Joe Ikhinmwin Player Profile, South Carolina State - RealGM |url=https://basketball.realgm.com/player/Joe-Ikhinmwin/Summary/23631 |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=basketball.realgm.com}}File:Alex Owumi Worcester Wolves (2014).jpgHe started his London Lions career in September 2013. During Ikhinmwin's debut on the London Lions against the Manchester Giants on 27 September 2013, he scored a career-high 22 points and 14 rebounds.{{Cite web |date=2013-09-27 |title=London Lions begin Copper Box era with victory over Manchester Giants |url=https://www.insidethegames.biz/articles/1016264/london-lions-begin-copper-box-era-with-victory-over-manchester-giants |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=insidethegames.biz}} He had 2 assists, 1 steal, shot 9/17 from two, 1/4 from three, shooting at 47.6% from the field. He also shot 1/1 from the free-throw line.{{Cite web |last=Proballers |title=Joseph Ikhinmwin, Basketball Player |url=https://www.proballers.com/basketball/player/19093/joseph-ikhinmwin |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Proballers}} Over his first year with the Lions, Ikhinmwin played multiple positions averaging just over 8 points and 4 rebounds per game while shooting 46% from the floor.{{cite web

|url= http://www.voice-online.co.uk/article/basketball-ace-loving-life-london-lions

|title = Basketball Ace Loving Life with the London Lions

|date = 2015-09-19

|publisher= The Voice

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20150327115017/http://www.voice-online.co.uk/article/basketball-ace-loving-life-london-lions

|archivedate = 2015-03-27

|accessdate=2017-11-06}}

Ikhinmwin quickly became a fan favourite,{{Cite news |date=1 August 2017 |title=Fab Five for Captain Joe |url=https://www.britishbasketballleague.com/fab-five-captain-joe/ |work=The British Basketball League}} and gained international recognition early in his career with the team's notable improvement, and his career was soon attributed to basketball's growing popularity in the UK.{{Cite web |date=2013-09-30 |title=MVP Issue 14 Sampler & Promo by Response London - Issuu |url=https://issuu.com/responselondon/docs/mvp14_sample_issuu |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=issuu.com |pages=10–12}}{{Cite web |last=Hinds |first=Rodney |date=2020-07-16 |title=Eight is great for Joe |url=https://www.voice-online.co.uk/sport/2020/07/16/eight-is-great-for-joe/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Voice Online}}{{Cite web |date=14 August 2013 |title=Iowa Hawkeyes crush London to begin European visit |url=https://www.theamerican.co.uk/pr/sp_Iowa_v_LondonLions.php}}

On 31 March 2014, Ikhinmwin won the 2014 BBL Trophy Slam Dunk{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DvZR_rUA6M |title=2014 BBL Trophy Final Dunk Contest {{!}} ALL made dunks {{!}} Joe Ikhinmwin victorious |date=2014-03-30 |last=The Undersized Basketball Podcast - TUBPodcast |access-date=2024-05-28 |via=YouTube}} contest in Glasgow's Emirates Arena at the BBL Trophy Finals.{{cite web

|url=http://www.ukamericansportsfans.com/joe-ikhinmwin-destroys-trophy-dunk-contest/

|title= Joe Ikhinmwin DESTROYS Trophy Dunk Contest

|date = 2014-03-31

|publisher= ukamericansportsfans.com

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20171106175039/http://www.ukamericansportsfans.com/joe-ikhinmwin-destroys-trophy-dunk-contest/

|archivedate = 2017-11-06

|accessdate=2017-11-06}} On the same day, he represented England at the International Friendly against Scotland and scored 15 points.{{cite web

|url = http://www.londonlionsbasketball.co.uk/news-192-lions-bolster-england-select.html

|title = Lions Bolster England Select International Friendly

|date = 2014-03-31

|publisher = londonlionsbasketball.co.uk

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20140504081318/http://www.londonlionsbasketball.co.uk/news-192-lions-bolster-england-select.html

|archivedate = 2014-05-04

|accessdate = 2017-11-06

|url-status = dead

}} The Lions went on to the BBL Championship Playoff Quarter Finals of the 2013–14 British Basketball League season. Ikhinmwin was the British BBL Week 1 Team of the Week Honorable Mention Recipient for the 2013/14 season.{{Cite web |title=British BBL Awards - RealGM |url=https://basketball.realgm.com/international/league/69/British-BBL/awards/by-type/British-BBL-Week-1-Team-of-the-Week-Honorable-Mention/135 |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=basketball.realgm.com}}

File:EmiratesArenaBBLTrophyFinal.jpg

During the off-season in the summer of 2014, Ikhinmwin accepted a 2-year contract extension with the London Lions. In September 2014, the Lions exercised an early termination clause in the contract and returned with a week-to-week contract revision, which Ikhinmwin rejected.{{cite web

|url= http://www.mvp247.com/2014/11/ikhinmwin-out-london/

|title = Joe fuming at Lions exit

|author = Mark Woods

|date = 2014-11-19

|publisher= mvp247.com

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20141204010052/http://www.mvp247.com/2014/11/ikhinmwin-out-london/

|archivedate = 2014-12-04

|accessdate=2017-11-06}} In his statement to fans, Ikhinmwin expressed, "This has been an incredibly hard decision to make, but my family and I felt it was the only choice I had with the recent turn of events, which would benefit the Lions and the best interests of my career".{{Cite web |title=MVP247.com - your home for British basketball news |url=http://www.mvp247.com/2014/11/ikhinmwin-out-london/ |access-date=2024-05-28}}

Ikhinmwin re-negotiated his contract and returned to the Lions in December 2014.{{Cite web |title=Joe Ikhinmwin :: Player Profile :: playmakerstats.com |url=https://www.playmakerstats.com/player/joe-ikhinmwin/825351?epoca_id=14 |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=playmakerstats.com}} His return marked the 2014/2015 season as a notable comeback for the Lions. They finished 6th in the regular season with Ikhinwin averaging 8 points per game.{{Cite web |title=London Lions News, Rumors, Roster, Stats, Awards, Transactions, Depth Charts, Forums - RealGM |url=https://basketball.realgm.com/international/league/69/British-BBL/team/959/London-Lions |access-date=2024-05-29 |website=basketball.realgm.com}} and starting 20 out of 30 games.{{Cite web |title=Joe Ikhinmwin International Stats, South Carolina State - RealGM |url=https://basketball.realgm.com/player/Joe-Ikhinmwin/International/23631/2015/By_Season/Per_Game/0/All_Leagues |access-date=2024-05-29 |website=basketball.realgm.com}} His season high was in April 2015, scoring 21 points and 8 field goals against Surrey Scorchers.{{Cite web |title=Apr 11, 2015 - London Lions 89 at Surrey Scorchers 83 - RealGM International Box Score |url=https://basketball.realgm.com/international/boxscore/2015-04-11/London-Lions-at-Surrey-Scorchers/184788 |access-date=2024-05-29 |website=basketball.realgm.com}} In the playoffs, the Lions defeated Worcester Wolves in the quarter-finals and Cheshire Phoenix in the semi-finals. Ikhinmwin set a career-high in free throws during this game, making 7 of 7 attempts.{{Cite web |title=Joe Ikhinmwin Career Bests and Rankings, South Carolina State - RealGM |url=https://basketball.realgm.com/player/Joe-Ikhinmwin/Bests/23631 |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=basketball.realgm.com}} By the end of the season, Ikhinmwin had made over 90 game appearances since joining the Lions.{{Cite web |last=Scorchers |first=Surrey |date=2015-10-15 |title=Preview: Lions @ Scorchers |url=https://www.surreyscorchers.co.uk/preview-lions-scorchers-2/ |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=Surrey Scorchers}}

In May 2015, the team played in the BBL Playoff Finals against Newcastle Eagles in front of over 14,700 at The O2 Arena.{{cite web

|url= https://www.bbc.com/sport/basketball/32656268

|title = BBL Play-Off final: Newcastle Eagles v London Lions

|author = Rob Dugdale

|date = 2015-05-10

|publisher= BBC Sport

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20171107194442/http://www.bbc.com/sport/basketball/32656268

|archivedate = 2017-11-07

|accessdate=2017-11-06}} Ikhinmwin scored 35 points during the Playoffs.{{Cite web |last=Proballers |title=Joseph Ikhinmwin, Totals |url=https://www.proballers.com/basketball/player/19093/joseph-ikhinmwin/totals |access-date=2024-05-31 |website=Proballers}}

In July 2015 Ikhinmwin became the London Lions' team captain.{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kHLc4CdH4xM |title=Joe Ikhinmwin Talks New Role as London Lions Captain |date=2015-08-22 |last=HoopAsylum |access-date=2024-05-28 |via=YouTube}}{{cite web

|url= http://eastlondonnews.co.uk/london-lions-gear-up-for-new-season/

|title = London Lions gear up for new season

|date = 2015-07-31

|publisher= East London News

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20171106200644/http://eastlondonnews.co.uk/london-lions-gear-up-for-new-season/

|archivedate = 2017-11-06

|accessdate=2017-11-06}} Ikhinmwin's season-high was 20 points scored against the Bristol Flyers in October 2015.{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGsI-1JuDbM |title=joe ikhinmwin Post game Bristol Flyers |date=2016-10-05 |last=London Lions Basketball |access-date=2024-05-28 |via=YouTube}} Also during that game, he had 2 steals and 9 field goals.{{Cite web |title=Oct 8, 2015 - Bristol Flyers 76 at London Lions 64 - RealGM International Box Score |url=https://basketball.realgm.com/international/boxscore/2015-10-08/Bristol-Flyers-at-London-Lions/226386 |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=basketball.realgm.com}} In the 2015/16 season, he averaged 7 points a game, 57% shooting from the floor, whilst corralling just under 4 rebounds per outing. In November 2015, Ikhinmwin hit a last second three-pointer that put the game against the Worcester Wolves into overtime. His contribution helped the Lions win the game and earn a place in the semi-finals of the Cup.{{cite web

|url= http://www.express.co.uk/sport/othersport/618025/Joe-Ikhinmwin-London-Lions-win-Worcester-Wolves-BBL-cup-silverware

|date=2015-11-09

|title = Joe Ikhinmwin hoping London Lions' win at Worcester Wolves can pave the way for silverware

|author= Niall Gray

|publisher= Daily Express

|accessdate=2017-11-06}} On

In March 2016, the London Lions participated in the "16 Days of Activism" against gender-based discrimination campaign. Ikhinmwin stood by his teammates in partnership with [https://www.mkact.com/ MK Act] for White Ribbon Day,{{Cite web |title=White Ribbon UK |url=https://www.whiteribbon.org.uk/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=White Ribbon UK}} sharing his dedication to ending violence against women and the importance women have played in his life.{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWvfItKfXyc |title=White Ribbon Pledge With Joe Ikhinmwin |date=2017-12-05 |last=London Lions Basketball |access-date=2024-05-28 |via=YouTube}} He is quoted as saying, "The team and I feel men and boys have a crucial role to play in creating a culture where male violence, abuse, and harassment against women and girls are simply seen as unacceptable". On the 16th Day of Activism, the London Lions played BBL Cup Semi-Finals at the Copper Box Arena in the Olympic Park.{{Cite news |last=MK Act |date=November 2016 |title=These Palms Don't Punch: MK ACT White Ribbon Day |url=https://www.mkact.com/951/}}

After the season ended, Ikhinmwin was the Guest of Honour and presenter at the Middlesex University annual "Sports Ball" in May 2016.{{Cite web |title=Sports stars recognised at awards ceremony {{!}} UniHub |url=https://unihub.mdx.ac.uk/student-life/news/2016-news/sports-stars-recognised-at-awards-ceremony |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=unihub.mdx.ac.uk}}

The 2016/17 season kicked off with a 5-game winning streak for the Lions.{{Cite web |last=Proballers |title=Joseph Ikhinmwin, Game by Game Stats (2016-2017) |url=https://www.proballers.com/basketball/player/19093/joseph-ikhinmwin/games/2016 |access-date=2024-05-31 |website=Proballers}} In October 2016, Ikhinmwin led the Lions to victory over his former team the Newcastle Eagles for the club's first time in 13 years.{{Cite web |title=Lions' Pride Too Strong For Eagles |url=https://newcastle-eagles.com/news/lions-pride-too-strong-for-eagles/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Newcastle Eagles}} This win advanced the Lions to a 3–0 record in the BBL. The Lions started 2017 with a win against Surrey Scorchers (92–103). At the end of a high-scoring third period, Ikhinmwin beat the buzzer with the corner three to edge the Lions further clear, up 16.{{Cite web |last=Scorchers |first=Surrey |date=2017-01-04 |title=Report: Scorchers 92-103 Lions |url=https://www.surreyscorchers.co.uk/report-scorchers-92-103-lions/ |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=Surrey Scorchers}} On 25 February 2017, Ikhinmwin set his career high in efficiency in a British Basketball game. That day he accomplished 26 efficiency in the game against Bristol, also scoring 15 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists. On 9 April 2017, he scored his season-high against Leeds Force with 15 points, 4 offensive rebounds, and 7 field goals made.{{Cite web |title=Apr 9, 2017 - London Lions 100 at Leeds Force 83 - RealGM International Box Score |url=https://basketball.realgm.com/international/boxscore/2017-04-09/London-Lions-at-Leeds-Force/262480 |access-date=2024-05-29 |website=basketball.realgm.com}}

After the Lion's started the season with an undefeated first month, the Lions finished in sixth with an 18–15 record before moving on to the Semi-Finals of the BBL Playoffs and BBL Cup.{{Cite news |last=BBL News |date=27 September 2017 |title=2017/18 Team Profile: London Lions |url=https://www.britishbasketballleague.com/2017-18-team-profiles-london-lions/}} During the regular season, Ikhinmwin averaged 7 points a game on 57% shooting from the floor, and 4 rebounds per outing,{{Cite news |last=BBL News |date=1 August 2017 |title=Fab Five for Captain Joe |url=https://www.britishbasketballleague.com/fab-five-captain-joe/}} scoring 221 points throughout the regular season making it his second highest scoring year since joining the Lions.{{Cite web |last=Proballers |title=Joseph Ikhinmwin, Game by Game Stats (2016-2017) |url=https://www.proballers.com/basketball/player/19093/joseph-ikhinmwin/games/2016 |access-date=2024-05-31 |website=Proballers}}

In summer 2017, Ikhinmwin was named out of hundreds of basketball players in England to begin training with Team England's squad ahead of the Commonwealth Games the following year.{{Cite web |date=2017-11-28 |title=Basketball: London Lions forward Joe Ikhinmwin named in Team England training camp squad ahead of Commonwealth Games |url=https://www.newhamrecorder.co.uk/sport/21432807.basketball-london-lions-forward-joe-ikhinmwin-named-team-england-training-camp-squad-ahead-commonwealth-games/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Newham Recorder}}

In August 2017, Ikhinmwin renewed his contract with the Lions for the next two seasons. In September 2017, Ikhinmwin captained the Lions to their first national championship at [https://allstarsbasketball.co.uk/ Betway British Basketball All-Stars]{{Cite news |date=24 September 2017 |title=London Lions win Betway British Basketball All-Stars Championship |url=https://www.britishbasketballleague.com/london-lions-win-betway-british-basketball-stars-championship/ |access-date=30 May 2024 |work=British Basketball League}} at The O2 Arena. This was the team's first piece of Silverware since making the move from Milton Keynes to London in 2012.{{cite news |title=London Lions keep captain Joe Ikhinmwin |url=https://sportando.basketball/en/london-lions-keep-captain-joe-ikhinmwin/ |website=Sportando |accessdate=14 July 2020 |date=14 July 2020 |last1=Carchia |first1=Emiliano }} In addition to the trophy, the team won the record-breaking £100,000 prize fund.{{Cite web |title=London Lions are crowned champions of the opening Betway All Stars Basketball! |url=https://www.playwiththebest.com/blog/molten2017270901 |access-date=2024-05-31 |website=playwiththebest.com}} On 1 January 2018, Ikhinwin set his career high in assists in a BBL game, with five assists during the London Lions' 86–81 win against Chester.{{Cite web |last=Proballers |title=London Lions (M) vs. Cheshire Phoenix - Jan 12, 2018 - Game recap |url=https://www.proballers.com/basketball/game/386752/london-lions-m-cheshire-phoenix-2018-01-12 |access-date=2024-05-31 |website=Proballers}} During the game, he also had seven points and two rebounds.{{Cite web |last=Otto |first=Edward |date=2020-11-18 |title=Getting to know Joe Ikhinmwin – London Lions {{!}} Rising East |url=https://risingeast.co.uk/getting-to-know-joe-ikhinmwin-london-lions/ |access-date=2024-05-28}}

During the Quarter-Finals in May 2018, Ikhinmwin scored a three-pointer which forced the game into overtime against Worcester Wolves and helped the Lions secure their spot in the Semi-Finals.{{Cite web |last=Round |first=Josh |date=2018-05-10 |title=Joe Ikhinmwin Huge Three Forces OT to Help Lions Past Wolves! BBL Playoffs Top 10 Plays - Quarter-Finals |url=https://www.hoopsfix.com/2018/05/joe-ikhinmwin-huge-three-forces-ot-to-help-lions-past-wolves-bbl-playoffs-top-10-plays-quarter-finals/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Hoopsfix.com}} The 2017/18 season marked the Lion's highest-ever league finish, placing them in the last four for the third time in four years for the BBL Finals in May 2018.{{Cite news |date=2018-05-07 |title=Catch-up: Glasgow Rocks and London Lions in tense thriller |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/live/basketball/44029750 |access-date=2024-05-28 |publisher=BBC Sport}}

File:Carrara Stadium at Opening Ceremony of the 2018 Commonwealth Games on 2018-04-04, 01.jpg

The Commonwealth Games - Gold Coast took place 4–15 April 2018 with over 6,600 athletes and team officials from 70 nations. Athletes competed in 18 sports over 11 days.{{Cite web |last=Commonwealth Games - England |title=Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games |url=https://teamengland.org/commonwealth-games-history/gold-coast-2018}} Team England placed second on the medal table with a total of 136 medals, including 45 golds.{{Cite web |date=2018-04-06 |title=2018 Commonwealth Games Results |url=https://thegymter.net/2018/04/06/2018-commonwealth-games-results/ |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=The Gymternet}}

After making it through numerous training rounds and rigorous preparation over 10 months, Ikhinmwin was selected out of 64 other players from the UK, 24 from the BBL{{Cite news |last=GB Watch |date=10 November 2017 |title=20 BBL players named in England Commonwealth Games squad |url=https://www.britishbasketballleague.com/20-bbl-players-named-england-commonwealth-games-squad/}} to represent Team England in Men's Basketball during the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast.{{Cite web |last=Commonwealth Games |date=1 April 2018 |title=Team England - Joseph Ikhinmwin |url=https://teamengland.org/team-england-athletes/joseph-ikhinmwin}} His name was announced on the official Team England roster in March 2018.{{Cite news |date=16 March 2018 |title=Team England names Gold Coast Basketball squads |url=https://www.wbbl.org.uk/team-england-names-gold-coast-basketball-squads/}} In light of being chosen as one of the twelve elite players from the UK, Ikhinmwin stated: "The only greater honour of being captain of your home-town team is getting to represent your country, so I feel like I’m winning on all fronts right now, and I really appreciate the honour".{{Cite web |date=2018-04-04 |title=Commonwealth Games 2018: Joe Ikhinmwin honoured to get England call and sets bar high on Gold Coast |url=https://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/20945662.commonwealth-games-2018-joe-ikhinmwin-honoured-get-england-call-sets-bar-high-gold-coast/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Barking and Dagenham Post}}

Team England held a 10-day preparation camp in Brisbane.{{Cite web |last=Commonwealth Games - Team England |first=Joseph Ikhinmwin |date=1 April 2017 |title=Joseph Ikhinmwin - Basketball (Commonwealth Games 2018) |url=https://teamengland.org/team-england-athletes/joseph-ikhinmwin}} The preliminary games for the England Men's Basketball team were held in Townsville, Australia against Cameroon, India, and Scotland.{{Cite web |date=2017-07-28 |title=Gold Coast 2018 reveal list of competing nations in basketball events |url=https://www.insidethegames.biz/articles/1053340/gold-coast-2018-reveal-list-of-competing-nations-in-basketball-events |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=insidethegames.biz}} England played against Canada in the Qualifying Finals for Basketball at the 2018 Commonwealth Games – Men's tournament in Cairns.

The London Lions set a BBL record 11-game winning streak from 14 December 2018 – 22 March 2019.{{Cite web |title=Lions' double extends lead at the top, Phoenix back on track {{!}} Basketball England |url=https://www.basketballengland.co.uk/news/2018/lions-double-extends-lead-at-the-top-phoenix-back-on-track/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=basketballengland.co.uk}} In December 2018, the Lions became the first team to book their spot in the BBL Cup Final after overcoming Eagles of Newcastle 170–160.{{Cite web |title=Lions into Final, Sharks climb into second! {{!}} Basketball England |url=https://www.basketballengland.co.uk/news/2018/lions-into-final-sharks-climb-into-second/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=basketballengland.co.uk}} In January 2019, Ikihnmwin led the Lions to their first BBL Silverware since 2008 and their first major title since moving to London with a 68–54 win over Glasgow Rocks, earning the Lions the 2019 BBL Cup title.{{Cite web |last=Neter |first=Sam |date=2019-01-27 |title=London Lions End Silverware Drought with 2019 BBL Cup Title |url=https://www.hoopsfix.com/2019/01/london-lions-end-silverware-drought-with-2019-bbl-cup-title/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Hoopsfix.com}}

In April 2019, the Lions won the BBL Championship title for the first time ever after defeating Ikhinmwin's previous team Newcastle 99–80.{{Cite web |last=Neter |first=Sam |date=2019-04-27 |title=London Lions Clinch BBL Championship Title for First Time |url=https://www.hoopsfix.com/2019/04/london-lions-clinch-bbl-championship-title-for-first-time/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Hoopsfix.com}}

Ahead of the 2019/20 season in October 2019, the Lions won the [https://allstarsbasketball.co.uk/ Betway British Basketball All-Stars] for the second time in a victory over Newcastle Eagles.{{Cite web |title=Report: 2019 British Basketball All-Stars Championship |url=https://newcastle-eagles.com/news/report-2019-british-basketball-all-stars-championship/ |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=Newcastle Eagles}} This was the precipice for more success to come as 2019/20 was a victorious season for Captain Ikhinmwin and his team{{Cite news |last=BBL News |date=12 February 2020 |title=Kestrels Dominate in Trophy, Lions Back to Winning Ways |url=https://www.britishbasketballleague.com/kestrels-dominate-in-trophy-lions-back-to-winning-ways/}} prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Lions kicked off their season with a win against Caledonia Gladiators (88–72) and went on to win 8 out of their 12 matches{{Cite web |last=Proballers |title=Joseph Ikhinmwin, Game by Game Stats (2019-2020) |url=https://www.proballers.com/basketball/player/19093/joseph-ikhinmwin/games/2019 |access-date=2024-05-31 |website=Proballers}} before their season was cut short. On 17 March 2020, the season was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic in the United Kingdom. On 1 June 2020, the season was canceled,{{Cite web |title=FIBA Europe 2019-20 club competitions will not resume, Board sets plan for 2020-21 |url=https://www.fiba.basketball/news/fiba-europe-2019-20-club-competitions-will-not-resume-board-sets-plan-for-2020-21 |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=FIBA.basketball}} with no League or Playoffs champions declared.{{Cite web |last=Neter |first=Sam |date=2020-06-01 |title=BBL announces cancellation of 2019-20 season & format changes for next year |url=https://www.hoopsfix.com/2020/06/bbl-announces-cancellation-of-2019-20-season-format-changes-for-next-year/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Hoopsfix.com}}

Ikhinmwin renewed his contract with the London Lions ahead of the 2020-21 campaign on 14 July 2020, marking his eighth season with the team.{{Cite web |last=Gains |first=Bradley |date=2020-07-22 |title=London Lions bolster defence with DeAndre Liggins addition |url=https://www.hoopsfix.com/2020/07/london-lions-bolster-defence-with-deandre-liggins-addition/ |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=Hoopsfix.com}}

The London Lions returned to play the 2020/21 season in September 2020 with modifications made to Copper Box Arena's safety protocol due to the COVID-19 virus. Though restrictions were placed on arena capacity and player safety to follow pandemic policies, it was a markedly strong season for the London Lions' performance.{{Cite web |title=Strongest BCL lineup to date ahead of season 5 |url=https://www.championsleague.basketball/19-20/news/strongest-bcl-lineup-to-date-ahead-of-season-5 |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=FIBA.basketball}} London Lion fans proved loyal and the popularity of basketball in the UK did not suffer during the pandemic.{{Cite web |last=Jones |first=Rich |date=2020-11-07 |title=London Lions have living proof of power of basketball as BBL craves more support |url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/other-sports/american-sports/london-lions-living-proof-power-22973212 |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=The Mirror}} In 2020, Sky Sports returned the BBL to their network, signing a 2-year agreement to air 30 games to the growing basketball fanbase across the UK.{{Cite web |title=BBL returns to Sky Sports – Riders Basketball |url=https://riders.basketball/bbl-returns-to-sky-sports/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=riders.basketball}}

In November 2020, the Lions' entry into the Basketball Champions League Qualifying Rounds for the 2020–21 season marked the first time a London team would be represented in a European competition since the turn of the century.{{Cite web |title=London Calling - Lions enter the Basketball Champions League |url=https://www.championsleague.basketball/19-20/news/london-calling-lions-enter-the-basketball-champions-league |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=FIBA.basketball}} Ikhinmwin scored 7 points in the game versus Neptūnas.{{Cite web |last=Proballers |title=Neptunas vs. London Lions (M) - Sep 22, 2020 - Game recap |url=https://www.proballers.com/basketball/game/482508/neptunas-london-lions-m-2020-09-22 |access-date=2024-05-31 |website=Proballers}} The London Lions were selected for the FIBA Europe Cup taking place 26–29 January 2021 in Poland for the first time in club history. Due to COVID-19 disruptions, the London Lions were withdrawn from participating.{{Cite web |title=London Lions ruled out from FIBA Europe Cup Regular Season due to COVID-19 disruptions |url=https://www.fiba.basketball/europecup/20-21/news/london-lions-ruled-out-from-fiba-europe-cup-regular-season-due-to-covid-19-disruptions |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=FIBA.basketball|date=24 January 2021 }}

The British Basketball League and Basketball England partnered with TikTok at the beginning of 2021 for Britain's first ever major basketball social. media campaign. The content featured Ikhinmwin and other Lions teammates. The Basketball England account gained over 100k followers and the hashtag #BritishBasketball garnered 21.4m posts in the first three days of the campaign, rising from 4.5m prior to the launch.{{Cite web |last=Sport |first=Alt |date=2021-01-20 |title=BBL announce social media partnership with TikTok in celebration of British Basketball |url=https://vergemagazine.co.uk/bbl-announce-social-media-partnership-with-tiktok-in-celebration-of-british-basketball/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Verge Magazine}} The campaign proved successful in its aim to increase a younger fanbase for BBL.{{Cite web |date=2019-08-16 |title=Join the #BritishBasketball challenge on TikTok |url=https://newsroom.tiktok.com/en-gb/join-the-britishbasketball-challenge-on-tiktok |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Newsroom {{!}} TikTok}}

In March 2021, the Lions made their way to the Semi-Finals of the BBL Trophy tournament with the help of a significant performance from Ikhinmwin during the game against Surrey Scorchers (109–90), scoring ten points from off the bench.{{Cite news |last=British Basketball League News |date=31 March 2021 |title=Huge performance from Williams inspires Lions to dominant victory over Scorchers |url=https://www.britishbasketballleague.com/huge-performance-from-williams-inspires-lions-to-dominant-victory-over-scorchers/}} The London Lions advanced to the finals{{Cite news |last=BBL Championship News |date=10 April 2021 |title=Leicester Knock Plymouth out of Title Race, London up to Second |url=https://www.britishbasketballleague.com/leicester-knock-plymouth-out-of-title-race-london-up-to-second/}} and won the BBL Trophy for the first time in their history, earning the team their third piece of silverware since January 2019.{{Cite web |title=BBL Trophy Final 2021: London Lions hold off Plymouth Raiders to seal famous win |url=https://www.skysports.com/more-sports/basketball/news/12375/12252585/bbl-trophy-final-2021-london-lions-hold-off-plymouth-raiders-to-seal-famous-win |access-date=2024-05-28 |publisher=Sky Sports}} After a 14-game winning streak,{{Cite web |last=Holmes |first=Tom |date=2021-05-07 |title=London Lions on the hunt for British Basketball League glory |url=https://www.swlondoner.co.uk/sport/07052021-london-lions-on-the-hunt-for-british-basketball-league-glory |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=South West Londoner}} the team advanced to the finals of the BBL Championship that year and played against Newcastle Eagles.{{Cite web |last=Gains |first=Bradley |date=2021-05-16 |title=London Lions v Newcastle Eagles - 2021 BBL playoffs final preview |url=https://www.hoopsfix.com/2021/05/london-lions-v-newcastle-eagles-2021-bbl-playoffs-final-preview/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Hoopsfix.com}}

On 19 August 2021, Ikhinmwin announced his retirement from professional basketball.{{cite news |title=Joe Ikhinmwin announces retirement from professional basketball|url=https://www.hoopsfix.com/2021/08/joe-ikhinmwin-announces-retirement-from-professional-basketball/|website=hoopsfix.com|accessdate=22 August 2021|date=19 August 2021}} The fan favourite and dynamic Forward's departure left behind a legacy for the club, serving as team captain for six of the eight years on the Lions, leading his team to take multiple titles including the BBL Cup, BBL Trophy, BBL Playoffs, BBL Championship, and Betway All-Star Game winners, multiple years in a row. He also earned accolades including representing England's Senior Men's team at the Commonwealth Games in 2018, winner of the inaugural All-Star Basketball Championship, and British Basketball League Slam Dunk champion during his tenure as team captain.{{Cite web |date=2018-04-04 |title=Commonwealth Games 2018: Joe Ikhinmwin honoured to get England call and sets bar high on Gold Coast |url=https://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/20945662.commonwealth-games-2018-joe-ikhinmwin-honoured-get-england-call-sets-bar-high-gold-coast/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Barking and Dagenham Post}} Over Ikhinmwin's career, he made 14 European international appearances{{Cite web |title=Joe Ikhinmwin - Player Profile |url=https://www.fiba.basketball/en/player/150838/Joe-Ikhinmwin |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=FIBA.basketball}} and faced 992 opponents over 125 games.{{Cite web |last=Proballers |title=Joseph Ikhinmwin Opponents |url=https://www.proballers.com/basketball/player/19093/joseph-ikhinmwin/opponents |access-date=2024-05-31 |website=Proballers}}

In 2015, Ikhinmwin launched a web show with two best friends called "[https://www.youtube.com/@TheCyberNerds The Cyber Nerds]" that has amassed major success across social media platforms, including gaining over 200k subscribers and 70 million views on YouTube.{{Cite web |title=The Cyber Nerds - YouTube |url=https://www.youtube.com/c/TheCyberNerds |access-date=2024-05-28 |via=YouTube}} The series explores and reviews current and upcoming films, television, video games, and "all things nerdy.{{Cite web |title=The Cyber Nerds |url=https://thecybernerds.com}}" Notable interviews include directors Jon Favreau,{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLq5zqAKFkQ |title=What To Expect From The Mandalorian Season 3 |date=2023-02-28 |last=The Cyber Nerds |access-date=2024-05-28 |via=YouTube}} Matt Reeves,{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oXV3MsheCPk |title=Director Matt Reeves Breakdown of 'The Batman' & the Batverse with @JiCanWin |date=2022-03-06 |last=The Cyber Nerds |access-date=2024-05-28 |via=YouTube}} and Zack Snyder.{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qwtzgkz5VlM&list=PLkKiAYc47_pUp1urdPRNFpdehzjD_UGf8&index=8 |title=Zack Snyder's Justice League Interview |date=2021-03-17 |last=The Cyber Nerds |access-date=2024-05-28 |via=YouTube}} In 2019, "The Cyber Nerds" channel expanded into podcasting with "TCN" podcast.{{Cite web |title=TCN Podcast |url=https://www.thecybernerds.com/video-gallery/the-cyber-nerds-unplugged/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=thecybernerds.com}} In 2024, the team started the "[https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-cyber-nerds-beyond-the-sofas-podcast/id1328557079 Beyond the Sofa]" podcast.{{Cite web |date=2024-05-08 |title=The Cyber Nerds - Beyond The Sofa's Podcast |url=https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/the-cyber-nerds-beyond-the-sofas-podcast-mcFq3KpGA74/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Listen Notes}}

In addition to "The Cyber Nerds" channel, Ikhinmwin is an active livestreamer, [https://www.youtube.com/@JiCanWin/featured YouTube personality]{{Cite web |title=JiCanWin - YouTube |url=https://www.youtube.com/@JiCanWin/featured |access-date=2024-05-28 |via=YouTube}} and influencer.{{Cite web |last=Pal |first=Hunor |date=2022-10-20 |title=Star streamer 'Jei I Can Win' becomes Street Child's first ever gaming influencer ahead of World Gaming Day |url=https://europeangaming.eu/portal/latest-news/2022/10/21/123353/star-streamer-jei-i-can-win-becomes-street-childs-first-ever-gaming-influencer-ahead-of-world-gaming-day/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=European Gaming Industry News}} He has a large following on Twitch{{Cite web |title=Twitch |url=https://www.twitch.tv/jicanwin |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Twitch}} and Discord, while also being a featured keynote speaker and podcast guest on channels including [https://open.spotify.com/show/4qbC55WMG5yE44EVzAxRmG No Shortcuts to Success] by [https://tradenation.com/en-gb/ Trade Nation],{{Cite web |title=Spotify |url=https://open.spotify.com/episode/2GXsdZx7B6maeUMnKjLkAg?si=FKNNvQs3QxK679QFVnHzqw |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=open.spotify.com}} the [https://www.youtube.com/@alternativesport3189 Alternative Sport Show]{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v5TD1G-csA0 |title=The Alternative Sport Show {{!}} British Basketball League: Justin Robinson Joe Ikhinmwin (London Lions) |date=2021-01-20 |last=Alternative Sport |access-date=2024-05-28 |via=YouTube}} by [https://vergemagazine.co.uk/ Verge Magazine], and the [https://hoopsfix.com Hoopsfix podcast].{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkrrqCmGD1M |title=Making an easy transition into retirement from pro ball - with Joe Ikhinmwin - Ep. 105 |date=2021-08-19 |last=Hoopsfix |access-date=2024-05-28 |via=YouTube}} Throughout his career on and off the court, Ikhinmwin has been featured in commercials including, Sony, Betway and Channel 4, as well as voiceover projects.{{Cite web |title=Joe Ikhinmwin - Biography |url=https://www.imdb.com/name/nm8854300/bio/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |publisher=IMDb}}

In 2021, Ikhinmwin and Jack Howard, Chief critic at the Independent Clarisse Loughrey, launched Amazon Prime UK's "[https://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Screen-Test/dp/B08JK3DNVJ The Screen Test]" online series and podcast.{{Cite web |date=2 April 2021 |title=The Screen Test |url=https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/36573e6c-ccc1-4c07-9b5f-441a83263889/the-screen-test |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=music.Amazon}} The weekly show featured special guests to discuss the top releases in genres such as sitcoms, Academy award-winning films and sci-fi.{{Cite web |title=The Screen Test : Prime Video: Amazon: Books |url=https://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Screen-Test/dp/B08JK3DNVJ |access-date=2024-05-28 |publisher=Amazon}}

In 2022, Ikhinmwin acquired [https://www.patreon.com/thefilmscritic The Films Critic]{{Cite web |title=The Films Critic - YouTube |url=https://www.youtube.com/@TheFilmsCritic |access-date=2024-05-28 |via=YouTube}} channel on YouTube and Patreon. Ikhinmwin is a partner in the channel's content, which focuses on highlighting cinematic pieces that "go beyond the well-known IP" to educate subscribers on various genres of film by featuring commentary, interviews, and film facts.{{Cite web |title=Get more from The Films Critic on Patreon |url=https://www.patreon.com/TheFilmsCritic |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Patreon}}

In 2023, Ikhinmwin became a presenter on Sky Cinema's original series "[https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLA3c0_oXUzyWeTQzEKLLLVAnou9P5HnO1 Take Your Seat]" where he joined Gary Noma for cinematic commentary.{{Cite web |title=Take Your Seat {{!}} Sky Cinema – Ellis Metzger |url=https://ellismetzger.com/portfolio/take-your-seat/ |access-date=2024-05-30}} The short-form series discusses feature films and Sky Cinema originals.{{Cite web |title=Take Your Seat - YouTube |url=https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLA3c0_oXUzyWeTQzEKLLLVAnou9P5HnO1 |access-date=2024-05-28 |via=YouTube}}

Ikhinmwin made his directorial debut in 2023 with a short film series titled "[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mIx7CgDDA0 Dark Stranger: Part One]"{{Cite web |title=Dark Stranger |url=https://filmfreeway.com/DarkStranger |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=FilmFreeway}} with the first installment premiering 18 September 2023 and "[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ryu6-ek6e9I Dark Stranger: Part Two]" on 14 February 2024.{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ryu6-ek6e9I |title=DARK STRANGER: PART TWO |date=2024-02-14 |last=JiCanWin |access-date=2024-05-28 |via=YouTube}}

The former London Lions captain has returned to the court for celebrity guest appearances and charity games. In 2021, musician AJ Tracey enlisted the help of Ikhinmwin to produce the "Flu Game All Stars Basketball Tournament" in support of his second album, Flu Game.{{Cite web |date=2021-04-22 |title=AJ Tracey's 'Revenge Athletic' Team Took The Trophy in Flu Game All Stars Basketball Tournament |url=https://www.mixtapemadness.com/blog/news/aj-traceys-revenge-athletic-team-took-the-trophy-in-flu-game-all-stars-basketball-tournament |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=Mixtape Madness}}{{Cite web |work=NME |date=2022-06-09 |title=The history of AJ Tracey's love affair with basketball |url=https://www.nme.com/blogs/nme-blogs/the-history-of-aj-traceys-love-affair-with-basketball-3242613 |access-date=2024-05-30}} Included in the event were fellow UK celebrities and musicians including Michael Dapaah, Stefflon Don, Wes Nelson, Bandokay, Double Lz, SL, Young T and Bugsey, Konan, Big Zuu, and others.{{Cite web |last=Dadalica |first=Jade |date=2021-04-21 |title=Check Out What Went Down at AJ Tracey's 'Flu Game Basketball Tournament' With OFB, Michael Dapaah & More |url=https://grmdaily.com/flu-game-all-stars-basketball-tournament/ |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=GRM Daily}}

In 2022, Ikhinmwin returned to London's Copper Box Arena court to play in the annual [https://www.wggbasketball.com/celebrity-ball-out-november-25th-2023/ Celebrity Ball Out] basketball game produced by the charity [https://www.wggbasketball.com/ Who's Got Game].{{Cite news |last=iTV News |date=16 August 2022 |title=Charity basketball game brings together a star-studded line-up of YouTubers and entertainers |url=https://www.itv.com/news/london/2022-08-16/youtubers-and-entertainers-gathered-in-london-to-celebrate-home-grown-talent |work=iTV News}} Ikhhinmwin played in the charity game alongside rapper D Double E, musician Big Tobz, boxer Anthony Yarde, Love Island star Michael Griffiths, former X-Factor winners Rak-Su, YouTube stars Harry Pinero and Elz, Famalam actor Samson Kayo, and more.{{Cite web |date=14 August 2022 |title=CELEBRITY BALL OUT 2022! Charity Basketball Game |url=https://www.tickettailor.com/events/whosgotgame/717007}}

While still playing for the London Lions and training for the 2018 Commonwealth Games, Ikhinmwin began studying for his postgraduate degree at University of East London in 2016.{{Cite web |date=2018-03-21 |title=University of East London sports scholar Ikhinmwin to captain England Basketball at Commonwealth Games |url=https://www.eastlondonadvertiser.co.uk/sport/20985014.university-east-london-sports-scholar-ikhinmwin-captain-england-basketball-commonwealth-games/ |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=East London Advertiser}}{{Cite web |date=27 July 2018 |title=University of East London Annual Report, 2017-18 |url=https://uel.ac.uk/sites/default/files/2017-2018.pdf}} He earned his Master's in Sports Management in 2018. He is an active alum of the university and passionate about growing awareness about the importance of education to young sports players.{{Cite web |date=2021-03-26 |title=Past and present UEL students on world sports pages |url=https://uel.ac.uk/about-uel/news/2021/march/past-present-uel-students-world-sports-pages |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=University of East London}} He was featured in the school's "[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAAYL29CtYg Leave your Legacy]" campaign and expressed his passion for inclusion and diversity in sports.{{Cite web |last=Rota |first=Anna Antonia |date=2018-04-04 |title=UEL: The Place To Make Your Mark {{!}} Rising East |url=https://risingeast.co.uk/uel-the-place-to-success/ |access-date=2024-05-30}}

Ikhinmwin founded Red Yellow Blue Entertainment Limited in 2018 which manages motion picture, video, and television programme post-production activities.{{Cite web |title=RED YELLOW BLUE ENTERTAINMENT LIMITED - MILTON KEYNES |url=http://www.checkcompany.co.uk/company/11303723/RED-YELLOW-BLUE-ENTERTAINMENT-LIMITED |access-date=2024-05-31 |website=checkcompany.co.uk}} He also launched his own production company called Zero Budget Productions in 2023.{{Cite web |last=LinkedIn |date=30 May 2024 |title=Joseph Ikhinmwin |url=https://www.linkedin.com/in/jicanwin/}}

Both in personal and professional life, Ikhinmwin supports a number of charity projects, including serving as a GLL-supported athlete and the ambassador of the [https://www.gllsportfoundation.org/ GLL Sport Foundation],{{cite web

|url= http://www.gllsportfoundation.org/gll-sport-foundation-supports-record-number-queen-elizabeth-olympic-park-talented-athletes/

|date=2017-05-22

|title = GLL Sport Foundation supports record number of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park talented athletes

|publisher= GLL Sport Foundation

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170612012942/http://www.gllsportfoundation.org/gll-sport-foundation-supports-record-number-queen-elizabeth-olympic-park-talented-athletes/

|archivedate = 2017-06-12

|accessdate=2017-11-06}} [https://sportsforschools.org/ Sports for Schools], and [https://www.londonsportstrust.org/ London Sports Trust].{{cite web

|url= https://www.bounceforchange.co.uk/single-post/2017/03/22/Joe-iCANWIN-Is-London-Sports-Trust-new-Ambassador

|date=2017-03-22

|title = Joe iCANWIN Is London Sports Trust new Ambassador

|publisher= London Sport Trust

|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170612012942/http://www.gllsportfoundation.org/gll-sport-foundation-supports-record-number-queen-elizabeth-olympic-park-talented-athletes/

|archivedate = 2017-06-12

|accessdate=2017-11-06}}

Ikhinmwin founded his own youth non-profit, the [https://icanwinfoundation.co.uk ICanWin Foundation]{{Cite web |title=About the ICanwin Foundation |url=https://icanwinfoundation.co.uk/home/foundation/ |access-date=2024-06-17 |website=ICanWin Foundation}} in 2013 where he works in partnership with a number of schools, sports clubs, and community groups to deliver engaging and skills-based lessons through a range of sports activities to children and young adults across London.{{Cite web |date=2018-03-21 |title=University of East London sports scholar Ikhinmwin to captain England Basketball at Commonwealth Games |url=https://www.eastlondonadvertiser.co.uk/sport/20985014.university-east-london-sports-scholar-ikhinmwin-captain-england-basketball-commonwealth-games/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=East London Advertiser}}

In 2018, Ikhinmwin was instrumental in the partnership between University of East London and his team the London Lions to create a pathway between academia and athletics for both scholars and non-scholars.{{Cite web |date=2018-09-07 |title=London Lions and University of East London in partnership |url=https://www.newhamrecorder.co.uk/sport/21429268.london-lions-university-east-london-partnership/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Newham Recorder}} Ikhinmwin and teammates were able to utilize Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park to offer free basketball coaching to children on outdoor courts throughout the summer holidays, eventually enabling them to begin a "Junior Lions" club out of the Copper Box arena once a week.{{Cite web |title=London Lions flying high {{!}} Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park |url=https://www.queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk/our-stories/london-lions-flying-high |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk}}

In 2021, GLL supported more than 200 basketball players and in 2022 is investing over £1 million into the development of local athletes with Ikhinmwin's support as ambassador.{{Cite web |date=31 January 2022 |title=GLL Sport Foundation has already helped 200 basketball players - could you be next? {{!}} Basketball England |url=https://www.basketballengland.co.uk/news/2022/gll-sport-foundation-has-already-helped-200-basketball-players-could-you-be-next/ |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=basketballengland.co.uk}} Ikhinmwin continues traveling to schools across the UK to inspire primary school children to chase their dreams through [https://www.icanwinsports.com/ ICanWin Sports] and the [https://sportsforschools.org/ Sports for Schools] Foundation.{{Cite web |title=Joseph Ikhinmwin |url=https://sportsforschools.org/athletes/joseph-ikhinmwin/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=Sports for Schools}} His mission is to build confidence in young students while also helping raise funds for the foundation and various local charities.{{Cite web |title=Sport for Schools – Wickford Primary School |url=https://wickfordprimary.uk/sport-for-schools/ |access-date=2024-05-30}}

Alongside his YouTube channel co-hosts, "The Cyber Nerds" partner with local charities including the [https://5onit.co.uk/ 5 On It Foundation] to offer content creation courses to youth in the community.{{Cite web |date=2023-09-12 |title=Cyber Nerds YouTube Workshop |url=https://5onit.co.uk/cyber-nerds-youtube-workshop/ |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=5 On It Foundation}}

{{reflist}}

• [http://jicanwin.com Official website]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Ikhinmwin, Joe}}

Category:1987 births

Category:Living people

Category:Basketball players from London

Category:Black British sportsmen

Category:21st-century Black British people

Category:English men's basketball players

Category:Newcastle Eagles players

Category:Seminole State Trojans men's basketball players

Category:Small forwards

Category:South Carolina State Bulldogs basketball players

Category:Forwards (basketball)

Category:British film directors

Category:British basketball players

Category:YouTubers from London

Category:English entertainers

Category:English people of Nigerian descent

Category:English gaming YouTubers

Category:21st-century English sportsmen