The East Coast Basketball League is pleased to announce the addition of the Columbia Warriors for the 2027 ECBL season.

The Warriors will be led by team owners Robert and Paula Hughes and will bring a new organization focused on competitive basketball, player development, and community involvement to the ECBL.

Robert Hughes will serve as the team’s General Manager, with Paula Hughes serving as Director of Operations. The Warriors’ Marketing and Community Relations team will include Brittaney Barfield, Aaron Hughes, and Jamar Goodwin.

Robert and Paula bring extensive leadership and organizational experience to the Warriors. Both are retired U.S. Army veterans with advanced business degrees and a strong background in athletics, mentorship, and community service. Robert also brings more than eight years of experience coaching youth basketball and football.

The Warriors enter the ECBL with a vision of becoming a premier basketball organization known for competitive excellence and meaningful community impact. Their mission is to build a championship culture that develops athletes, creates opportunities, and inspires the community both on and off the court.

The organization plans to spend its first season establishing its fan base, developing sponsorship partnerships, strengthening its presence in the community, and laying the foundation to become one of the ECBL’s premier franchises.

Welcome to the East Coast Basketball League, Columbia Warriors!