After finishing second in Division 2 that inaugural season, Coach Beswick led Belgrade to promotion in 1977, compiling an impressive 18–2 record, the best in franchise history.
The next four years proved to be a period of consolidation for the team in the top division of British basketball with a first trip to Europe, in the Korac Cup.
The arrival of Joe Whelton at the start of the following season proved to be the turning point in the team's history.
Halfway through the following season, another major turning point occurred in the Vikings' eventful history when Manchester United F.C.
Coach Whelton also played a part in Manchester's sudden upturn in fortunes, making the shrewd signing of Colin Irish who was brilliant in the 1985 Championship Final win over Kingston, scoring 47 points in a 109–97 victory.
NBA Hall of Famer, Stockport-born John Amaechi represented United’s basketball team at this time before later making it big in the US.