Basset was the son of Ralph Basset and Hawise de Grey. Ralph succeeded his father on his death on 31 December 1299, and was knighted on 22 May 1306. Distinguishing himself in France, Ralph was appointed to the office of Seneschal of Gascony between 1323–1324 and also held the office of Steward of the Duchy of Aquitaine. While in Gascony he participated in the War of Saint-Sardos. Basset held the office of Constable of Dover Castle between March and September 1326 as well as the office of Warden of the Cinque Ports during the same time. Ralph was created a Knight Banneret in 1341 and died in 1343.