South Australian basketball has marked a rare and historic milestone at the 2026 Under 16 State Team Singlet Presentation, with the announcement of a brother and sister appointed as captains of their respective state teams in the same age group on Saturday 20 June 2026 at the State Basketball Centre, Wayville.
In a moment that will be remembered long after the upcoming National Championships, siblings Chloe and Liam George were officially recognised as captains of the South Australian Under 16 Metro Girls and Boys teams respectively, the first known instance of a brother and sister simultaneously leading South Australia at the same national championship level.
While the honour is significant, it was the way the pair spoke about one another — and the visible pride that swept through the room among families, teammates and coaches — that defined the moment.
“Pretty special to share this opportunity with Liam. We are both very excited. He’s really hard-working, always looking out for his team, which I think is what makes him such a good captain,” Chloe said.
Liam was equally complimentary of his sister.
“She [Chloe] stays calm, but she’s also very driven. She’s super committed and always gives 100 percent,” he said.
Chloe forms a key part of the U16 Metro Girls leadership group alongside;
Liam George has been named U16 Metro Boys Captain alongside;
The event brought together the full cohort of Under 16 Boys and Girls State Teams, representing both Metro and Country, alongside coaches, team staff, families and supporters, to celebrate the achievement of selection and the responsibility that comes with wearing the South Australian colours.
For every athlete in attendance, receiving their singlet represents the culmination of years of commitment to the game — early mornings, late finishes, club development, and the sacrifices required to reach state level.
For Chloe and Liam George, that responsibility now carries an added layer of history.
Growing up in the same household and progressing through South Australia’s basketball pathways side by side, the pair have shared countless hours in stadiums, on sidelines and in competition. While their journeys have unfolded in separate teams and environments, their connection through the game has remained constant marked by mutual support, competitiveness and shared ambition.
Basketball SA acknowledged all selected athletes at the presentation, emphasising the importance of representing the state with pride and professionalism at the upcoming National Championships in Bendigo from 5 –12 July 2026. It was also overwhelmingly clear the strength of support from the squad development players, who were out in force backing their selected teammates as they received their South Australian singlets.
Basketball SA Performance Pathways Lead Dee Ranford said:
“It’s so important to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our selected State Team athletes. Being able to represent your state on a national stage is an incredible achievement — one they will remember for the rest of their life. What is equally important is acknowledging the development players, who have trained week in, week out alongside those selected, and how important that role is in the South Australian pathway too.“
While the sibling milestone provided a rare historical highlight, the presentation remained firmly focused on the collective achievement of all Under 16 squads.
The Under 16 Metro and Country Boys and Girls teams now turn their attention to the National Championships, where they will compete not only for results, but as representatives of South Australia’s proud basketball pathway system.
Basketball SA would like to congratulate the following athletes for being selected as SA Country Captains:
U16 SA Country Girls Captains:
U16 SA Country Boys Captains:
Following the presentation, athletes took to the court for a series of trial games designed to replicate the National Championships environment, providing an early opportunity for teams to build chemistry and prepare for the challenge ahead.
With the singlets presented and the countdown to nationals underway, South Australia’s Under 16 teams now turn their focus to representing their state with pride on the national stage.
Best of luck to all South Australian teams competing; we’re so proud of you!
If you aren’t able to head to Bendigo to watch the teams live, you can catch their games on the KTV livestream – links will be posted to our socials accounts.
END
For media enquiries, please contact:
Cindy Halkias
Brand & Communications Manager
Basketball SA
chalkias@basketballsa.com.au
About Basketball SA
Basketball South Australia (Basketball SA) is the peak body responsible for the governance, growth, and strategic direction of basketball across South Australia.
We exist to lead, support, and connect our basketball community, from grassroots to elite, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and thriving environment for all participants. Our role spans across governance, competitions, officiating, coaching, high-performance pathways, education, inclusive pathways, infrastructure advocacy, and community engagement. Basketball SA works collaboratively with associations, clubs, government, schools, and industry partners to deliver programs and services that enable basketball to be accessible and impactful in every corner of our state.
We are committed to driving positive change and upholding the integrity of the sport, guided by our core values: Respect, Accountability, Inclusivity, Collaboration, and Excellence.
Basketball SA’s Female Participation Strategy has delivered funding support towards new playing uniforms for the Adelaide Thunder Women’s National Wheelchair Basketball League (WNWBL) team, helping ensure South Australia’s elite female wheelchair basketball athletes are seen, recognised and properly equipped to compete at the highest level.
The contribution, which provided funding support towards athlete uniforms, represents more than a practical investment. It is a visible outcome of Basketball SA’s ongoing commitment to strengthening opportunities for women and girls across all areas of the game, including wheelchair basketball.
For the Adelaide Thunder athletes, the new uniforms mark a significant step forward.
In previous seasons, financial constraints meant female athletes were required to wear second hand men’s uniforms. Through support provided via Basketball SA’s Female Participation Strategy, the team now has access to uniforms designed for each female athlete, providing a professional fit that reflects both the standards of the league and the importance of representation in sport.
Basketball SA CEO Ben MacCormack said the initiative demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to ensuring women and girls are not only participating in basketball but are visible and supported throughout their journey.
“Female participation is not just about getting more women and girls into the game; it’s about ensuring they are seen, supported and properly resourced at every level of the pathway. These athletes represent South Australia on the national stage and deserve the same level of care, visibility and support as any other elite program.” MacCormack said.
The investment builds on a growing partnership between Basketball SA and the South Australian Wheelchair Basketball Association, which over the past two years has focused on strengthening participation, development and performance pathways for wheelchair basketball athletes across the state.
A representative from the Adelaide Thunder said the support reflects the progress being made across the wheelchair basketball landscape in South Australia.
“Over the past two years, Basketball SA and SAWBA have worked closely together to strengthen wheelchair basketball pathways, from local competition through to state and national representation,” the representative said.
This support for our Women’s National Wheelchair Basketball League team is another important step forward.
In previous seasons, our female athletes were required to wear men’s uniforms because dedicated women’s kits were simply not financially possible. Having uniforms that are designed and fitted specifically for our athletes is about much more than appearance.
It reflects respect, visibility and investment in women competing at the highest level of wheelchair basketball in South Australia.
When athletes feel seen and valued, it strengthens their sense of belonging and pride in representing the Adelaide Thunder.”
The Female Participation Strategy continues to guide Basketball SA in initiatives that improve representation, retention and the lived experience of women and girls across all formats of basketball.
As the Adelaide Thunder continue their 2026 Women’s National Wheelchair Basketball League campaign, the new uniforms will serve as a visible symbol of the progress being made for women in para-sport and the power of collaboration in creating stronger pathways for future generations.
Basketball fans are encouraged to follow and support the Adelaide Thunder throughout the remainder of the Women’s National Wheelchair Basketball League season as South Australia’s elite wheelchair athletes continue to showcase their talent, resilience and pride on the national stage.
END
For media enquiries, please contact:
Cindy Halkias
Brand & Communications Manager
Basketball SA
chalkias@basketballsa.com.au
About Basketball SA
Basketball South Australia (Basketball SA) is the peak body responsible for the governance, growth, and strategic direction of basketball across South Australia.
We exist to lead, support, and connect our basketball community, from grassroots to elite, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and thriving environment for all participants. Our role spans across governance, competitions, officiating, coaching, high-performance pathways, education, inclusive pathways, infrastructure advocacy, and community engagement. Basketball SA works collaboratively with associations, clubs, government, schools, and industry partners to deliver programs and services that enable basketball to be accessible and impactful in every corner of our state.
We are committed to driving positive change and upholding the integrity of the sport, guided by our core values: Respect, Accountability, Inclusivity, Collaboration, and Excellence.
From Tuesday 1 July, there will be a change to the parking QR code arrangements at the State Basketball Centre at the Adelaide Showground.
Following a review of parking access by the Adelaide Showground, the monthly parking QR codes available through Basketball Connect will now be valid:
If you’re attending the State Basketball Centre during these times, you can continue using the monthly QR code as normal.
If you are visiting the venue before 3:00pm on a weekday, standard parking conditions will apply unless Basketball SA provide you with alternative parking instructions.
These changes are being introduced as part of a trial by the Adelaide Showground and help ensure parking remains available for the basketball community while supporting broader venue operations.
Further to those changes, there will be NO LEADER ST ACCESS from Monday 13 July through to Thursday 16 July 2026. Please access via Rose Terrace.
Please remember that the speed limit in all carparks is strictly 20km/h, unless otherwise signposted, and must be adhered to at all times.
We appreciate your understanding and patience as these arrangements are implemented.
If you have any questions regarding parking for your basketball related program or event, please contact Basketball SA.
At its most recent Annual General Meeting on 26 May 2026, the Basketball SA Council re-elected James Kitching, Tim Fitzgerald, and Nadia Andjelkovic to the Basketball SA Commission for a further two-year term, and elected Alix Doherty to the Basketball SA Commission for her first two-year term. Alix has served as an independent member of the Finance and Audit Committee since February 2026.
Following the Annual General Meeting, the Basketball SA Commission formally reappointed James Kitching as Chair and Jasmin Chua as Deputy Chair until the 2027 Annual General Meeting. Kitching and Chua have served in those roles since June 2024. These appointments continue Basketball SA’s commitment to strong governance, strategic leadership and the sustainable growth of basketball across South Australia.
The Annual General Meeting also had an update regarding the status of the Independent Review into South Australian basketball. It is anticipated that the Independent Review will be delivered to the Basketball SA Commission in the coming weeks.
Chair James Kitching noted the importance of stability and experienced leadership in supporting Basketball SA’s strategic direction:
“I’m honoured to have been reappointed to the Basketball SA Commission alongside Tim and Nadia, and it’s great to see Alix join the Commission following her valuable contribution to the Finance and Audit Committee.
“This group brings strong continuity and capability across governance, finance and leadership, and will continue to play an important role in guiding our future, particularly considering that we are due to receive the Independent Review into South Australian basketball in the coming weeks. I look forward to working with our new CEO, Ben MacCormack, on the delivery of the recommendations we receive from our external partners.
Thank you to Mark Lampshire and Emma Grigson-Gair, who both decided to not renominate, for their contribution to the Basketball SA Commission. In particular, I would like to celebrate the significant contribution made by Mark to South Australian basketball as a player, administrator, and board member over several decades. As he no longer holds a formal role in the sport, I intend to nominate him to be awarded (long overdue) membership of the Basketball SA Hall of Fame in our next awards cycle.”
I would also like to thank all candidates who nominated for election to the Basketball SA Commission and would encourage anyone interested in contributing to South Australian basketball to join a Basketball SA sub-committee.”
The Basketball SA Commission is:
Chair: James Kitching
Deputy Chair: Jasmin Chua
Members: Tim Fitzgerald, Nadia Andjelkovic, Alix Doherty, Sarah Coligan, Darren Kasehagen and Malcolm Gibbons
Chief Executive Officer Ben MacCormack stated:
“I’d like to congratulate James, Tim and Nadia on their reappointment to the Commission, and warmly welcome Alix to the group.
“These appointments reflect a strong mix of continuity and fresh perspective, and I look forward to working with the Commission as we continue supporting the growth of basketball and creating positive experiences for everyone involved in the game across South Australia.”
As Basketball SA looks ahead to the next phase of its strategic journey, the Commission’s blend of experience, continuity and fresh perspectives will help guide the sport through an important period of growth and opportunity. Supported by the passion and commitment of clubs, volunteers, officials, coaches and players across the state, Basketball SA remains focused on strengthening the game and ensuring basketball continues to have a positive impact in communities throughout South Australia.
ENDS
For media enquiries, please contact:
Cindy Halkias
Brand & Communications Manager
Basketball SA
chalkias@basketballsa.com.au
About Basketball SA
Basketball South Australia (Basketball SA) is the peak body responsible for the governance, growth, and strategic direction of basketball across South Australia.
We exist to lead, support, and connect our basketball community, from grassroots to elite, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and thriving environment for all participants. Our role spans across governance, competitions, officiating, coaching, high-performance pathways, education, inclusive pathways, infrastructure advocacy, and community engagement. Basketball SA works collaboratively with associations, clubs, government, schools, and industry partners to deliver programs and services that enable basketball to be accessible and impactful in every corner of our state.
We are committed to driving positive change and upholding the integrity of the sport, guided by our core values: Respect, Accountability, Inclusivity, Collaboration, and Excellence.
The 2026 Basketball SA State Championships concluded on Sunday 17th May 2026, following four days of competition across the Under 12, Under 14, Under 16 and Under 18 age groups.
Teams from across metropolitan South Australia came together to compete in both the State (Division 1) and Reserve (Division 2) competitions, delivering an incredible weekend of passion, energy and championship-level performances across every court.
From thrilling finishes to standout team moments, the Championships once again showcased the strength and spirit of South Australian basketball, with Grand Final winners crowned across all State and Reserve divisions.
Below is a recap of the 2026 State Championships Grand Final winners.
Congratulations to all Championship winners, runners up and participating teams, and thank you to the players, coaches, officials, volunteers, staff and supporters who helped make the 2026 Basketball SA State Championships another unforgettable weekend.
Under 12 Boys
State
South Adelaide Panthers defeated West Adelaide Bearcats — 72 to 71
Reserve
South Adelaide Panthers defeated Norwood Flames — 59 to 40
Under 12 Girls
State
West Adelaide Bearcats defeated South Adelaide Panthers — 47 to 44
Reserve
Sturt Sabres defeated Norwood Flames — 31 to 27
Under 14 Boys
State
South Adelaide Panthers defeated Sturt Sabres — 68 to 61
Reserve
South Adelaide Panthers defeated Norwood Flames — 41 to 54
Under 14 Girls
State
West Adelaide Bearcats defeated Eastern Mavericks — 65 to 58
Reserve
Norwood Flames defeated Forestville Eagles — 38 to 63
Under 16 Boys
State
South Adelaide Panthers defeated West Adelaide Bearcats — 85 to 82
Reserve
south Adelaide Panthers defeated Sturt Sabres — 62 to 54
Under 16 Girls
State
Eastern Mavericks defeated Sturt Sabres — 55 to 34
Reserve
Norwood Flames defeated Forestville Eagles — 51 to 34.
Under 18 Boys
State
Forestville Eagles defeated Norwood Flames — 73 to 69.
Reserve
Southern Tigers defeated South Adelaide Panthers — 56 to 53.
Under 18 Girls
State
Norwood Flames defeated Forestville Eagles — 78 to 32.
Reserve
Norwood Flames defeated Central Districts Lions — 66 to 43.
2026 Perpetual Trophy Winners
Overall State Club Champion – West Adelaide Bearcats
Male State Club Champion – South Adelaide Panthers
Female State Club Champion – West Adelaide Bearcats
Overall Reserve Club Champion – Norwood Flames
Male Reserve Club Champion – South Adelaide Panthers
Female Reserve Club Champion – Norwood Flames
Basketball SA 2026 Keep Your Cool Award – Norwood Flames
Over the weekend, more than 120 referees, 36 SSOs and 16 Technical Officials played an integral role in delivering the 2026 Basketball SA State Championships, supporting hundreds of games across four action-packed days of competition.
Basketball SA thanks all participating clubs, athletes, coaches, referees, SSOs, tech officials, volunteers and families for their commitment, professionalism and support throughout the weekend.
Until next year!
ENDS
Media Enquiries:
Cindy Halkias chalkias@basketballsa.com.au
Brand and Communications Manager
Basketball SA
About Basketball SA
Basketball South Australia (Basketball SA) is the peak body responsible for the governance, growth, and strategic direction of basketball across South Australia.
We exist to lead, support, and connect our basketball community, from grassroots to elite, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and thriving environment for all participants. Our role spans across governance, competitions, officiating, coaching, high-performance pathways, education, inclusive pathways, infrastructure advocacy, and community engagement. Basketball SA works collaboratively with associations, clubs, government, schools, and industry partners to deliver programs and services that enable basketball to be accessible and impactful in every corner of our state.
We are committed to driving positive change and upholding the integrity of the sport, guided by our core values: Respect, Accountability, Inclusivity, Collaboration, and Excellence.
Basketball SA is pleased to announce the appointment of Ben MacCormack as its new Chief Executive Officer.
MacCormack brings more than 20 years of experience across the sporting industry, most recently serving as Chief Executive Officer of the Northern Districts Cricket Association and the Northern Brave in New Zealand for the past seven and a half years. During his tenure, he led a significant transformation of the association’s governance, strategy and operations. Prior to this role, MacCormack held senior positions with Cricket ACT and Cricket NSW and was previously Chief Executive Officer of AFL Europe.
James Kitching, Chair of Basketball SA, said MacCormack emerged as the standout candidate following a comprehensive international recruitment process.
“Basketball in South Australia is experiencing significant growth and momentum, and we are confident Ben has the capability and vision to lead the organisation through its next chapter,” Kitching said.
“Ben will play a key role in delivering the next phase of our One Team, One Goal 2025–28 Strategic Plan and implementing the outcomes of the independent review of basketball in South Australia, which is due to be received in the coming months.
MacCormack said he was excited to join Basketball SA at an important time for the sport.
“I’m thrilled to be joining Basketball SA at such an exciting time for basketball in South Australia, with genuine momentum and a drive to keep improving,” MacCormack said.
“I’m energised by the opportunity to work alongside all stakeholders to further elevate the sport in South Australia. The Basketball SA Commission have a strong strategic vision for the game that excites me and I can’t wait to get started and meet the rest of the team.
“Everything I’ve learned across my career tells me that the best outcomes come when you combine experience with a deep understanding of the people you serve. I look forward to hearing from the basketball community on where we can build on the strong work already underway.”
Kitching also acknowledged outgoing Chief Executive Officer Tim Brenton for his contribution to the organisation over the past three and a half years.
“On behalf of Basketball SA, we again thank Tim for his strategic leadership and public advocacy for the sport.
“We wish Tim every success in his new role with Basketball Australia and look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with him to support the growth of basketball across the state, and country.”
MacCormack will commence in the role on Monday 25th May 2026.
ENDS
Media Enquiries:
Cindy Halkias
Brand and Communications Manager
Basketball South Australia
chalkias@basketballsa.com.au
About Basketball SA
Basketball South Australia (Basketball SA) is the peak body responsible for the governance, growth, and strategic direction of basketball across South Australia.
We exist to lead, support, and connect our basketball community, from grassroots to elite, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and thriving environment for all participants. Our role spans across governance, competitions, officiating, coaching, high-performance pathways, education, inclusive pathways, infrastructure advocacy, and community engagement. Basketball SA works collaboratively with associations, clubs, government, schools, and industry partners to deliver programs and services that enable basketball to be accessible and impactful in every corner of our state.
We are committed to driving positive change and upholding the integrity of the sport, guided by our core values: Respect, Accountability, Inclusivity, Collaboration, and Excellence.
Basketball South Australia (Basketball SA) will commence a national search for a new Chief Executive Officer, as the organisation enters the next delivery phase of its One Team, One Goal 2025–28 Strategic Plan.
Basketball SA today announced that current Chief Executive Officer, Tim Brenton, will conclude his tenure on 26 June 2026 after accepting a new leadership role with Basketball Australia, where he will commence as Chief Member Relations Officer on 1 July 2026.
Chair of Basketball SA, James Kitching, thanked Brenton for his significant contribution and emphasised the importance of continued national collaboration:
“We thank Tim for his leadership and the foundations he has helped put in place for the future of basketball in South Australia.
“We wish Tim every success in his new role with Basketball Australia and look forward to continuing to work closely with him to support a cohesive, nationally aligned approach to the growth of our sport.”
Since joining Basketball SA in October 2022, Brenton has overseen a significant period of growth and strategic progress for basketball across the state. Working closely with member associations, clubs, government partners, and the broader basketball and sporting community, he has helped strengthen participation pathways, governance frameworks, and long-term infrastructure planning, including the delivery of the State Basketball Centre at Wayville, leading the One Team, One Goal 2025–28 Strategic Plan, and commencing an independent review of basketball in South Australia (due May 2026).
Reflecting on his time with Basketball SA, Brenton said:
“Serving as Chief Executive Officer of Basketball SA has been a genuine privilege, and I sincerely thank the Commission, our staff and our member associations, clubs and government partners for their leadership, support, and collaboration. As basketball continues to grow strongly across our state, I look forward to continuing to serve the game at a national level with Basketball Australia and wish the next CEO every success.”
Moving forward, Kitching said the organisation is well positioned for its next growth chapter:
“Basketball SA is looking for a dynamic and capable Chief Executive Officer who can lead with confidence, work effectively with diverse stakeholders and government, and deliver on our strategic plan. Basketball is experiencing unprecedented growth across South Australia and is the fastest growing team sport in the nation. Our focus is on securing further investment, honing our governance, enhancing our infrastructure, and ensuring the longterm sustainability of the sport. In late 2025 we commenced an independent review of basketball in South Australia. That review has consulted with all key stakeholders across the basketball and sporting landscape. Once completed, our new Chief Executive Officer will have a clear roadmap to lead the modernisation of Basketball SA.”
Basketball SA has engaged executive search firm Hender Consulting to assist with the recruitment of a new CEO. Further updates will be provided in the coming weeks. Confidential enquiries are welcome to Justin Hinora on (08) 8100 8827.
Media Contact:
Cindy Halkias
Brand & Communications Manager
Basketball South Australia
chalkias@basketballsa.com.au
Mile End, South Australia – NBL1 CENTRAL GRAND FINALS RETURN TO ADELAIDE ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE
The Adelaide Entertainment Centre has been confirmed as the host of the 2026 Mitsubishi Motors NBL1 Central Grand Finals. As South Australia’s premier entertainment venue, it was instrumental in delivering a record-breaking crowd of 4,838 fans at last year’s Grand Finals, a record-breaking statistic that made securing the venue for another season an obvious choice for Basketball SA.
The 2026 Grand Finals are locked in for Saturday 8th August, and fans can expect more than just basketball. The Orb fan zone will transform into a hub of interactive experiences, entertainment and family-friendly activities, delivering an afternoon that celebrates the sport, the community, and the excitement of the state’s premier competition.
NBL1 Central League Manager and Basketball SA Operations Manager, Tom Mitchell said:
“We are excited to bring the NBL1 Central Grand Finals back to the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, a venue that perfectly reflects the quality and prestige of our competition. The atmosphere, the fans, and the on-court action make this the pinnacle of South Australian basketball. We can’t wait to welcome the community to celebrate the culmination of another outstanding season.”
The 2026 NBL1 Central season begins on Saturday 21st March 2026, tipping-off a thrilling campaign of key matchups, milestone rounds, and standout performances across both the men’s and women’s divisions. Fans are encouraged to get around their Club, head out to a game, be in the stands, experience the hype and feel the heat of south Australian basketball. Follow along on social media for updates and highlights throughout the season.
Grand Final tickets are now available, https://bit.ly/NBL1_Central_2026_GFs.
Follow along on social media for updates and highlights throughout the season.
Facebook: NBL1 Central
Instagram: @nbl1_central
Website: www.nbl1.com.au/conference/central
Media Contact:
Cindy Halkias
Brand & Communications Manager
Basketball South Australia
chalkias@basketballsa.com.au
Basketball SA launches SA first Warning Card System to improve sideline behaviour for 2026 District Season & State Championships
Basketball South Australia has today announced a major update to its Behaviour Management Framework, introducing an SA first trial of a new Warning Card System for the 2026 District Season aimed at strengthening positive spectator behaviour and increasing enjoyment of one of the states favourite games for all.
The vast majority of spectators across South Australia already set a positive standard for the game. The introduction of the Warning Card System builds on this culture, providing a clear, consistent and visible process to support respectful behaviour, protect referees, and enable early intervention before issues escalate.
“Basketball is the greatest sport in the world and should be safe, respectful and enjoyable for everyone in the venue, on the court and in the stands,” said Tim Brenton, CEO of Basketball South Australia.
“The Warning Card System we are implementing provides our staff with a clear and consistent process to set expectations, support our referees and address behaviour early, before it escalates,” Brenton added.
Recent referee feedback highlighted the need for stronger, more consistent sideline behavioural tools across our competitions, with feedback stating:
This tool and framework are about protecting our sport, supporting players, officials, coaches, and the volunteers who make basketball possible.
How the Warning Card System Works
Basketball SA District Clubs play a critical role in this SA-first initiative.
Clubs are key partners in setting the standard to:
“This will be introduced as a pilot in 2026, informed by outcomes observed throughout the season. Basketball South Australia has zero tolerance for anyone communicating with referees in a negative or intimidating manner, particularly given that many referees are children and young people. Our aim is to reduce poor behaviour and strengthen positive spectator culture while reinforcing our sport as the safest in Australia,” Brenton concluded.
Following Club Communication packs being delivered to Clubs, Eastern Mavericks Club President, Dan Wray, commented:
“The Eastern Mavericks Basketball Club fully support the introduction of the Warning Card System by Basketball SA. Our club community is always behind moves that set clear expectations and provide tools to address poor behaviour, and this initiative delivers exactly that. We want our players, coaches, referees and families to feel safe and respected at every game. The Warning Card System gives everyone a fair, transparent process and reinforces the kind of culture we’re proud to stand behind,”said Wray, President, Eastern Mavericks.
Basketball SA will remain committed to supporting staff, officials and referees, and to ensuring that our game environment is safe, welcoming and fun for our entire community. We all play a role in setting the standard, cheering loudly and acting respectfully.
Basketball South Australia is stepping into a new era; one that honours our heritage, strengthens our identity, and reflects the vibrant community that powers our game.
For decades, these colours were what defined us, how we were identified and all people knew about us; but it’s time to retire the orange and black. They served us well, but as basketball has grown across South Australia, so too has our connection to the people and places that make this sport thrive.
Today, we’re proud to unveil a refreshed brand that captures who we are, where we’ve come from, and where we’re heading next.
Why the Change?
Basketball in South Australia is booming. Participation is at record levels, pathways are stronger than ever, and our footprint across the state and country continues to expand. With this growth comes an opportunity to ensure our brand reflects the energy, diversity, and pride of our basketball community.
Our new visual identity embraces the iconic South Australian colours of red, blue, and yellow.
These colours aren’t just a palette; they’re our story. They represent our heritage and carry the same energy, optimism, and history that live within our basketball community.
South Australian Red – Pride and Passion
The South Australian red runs deep in our identity. Our community is bold, passionate, and powerful, reflecting the fire in our game and the determination of our people. It is the colour of courage, commitment, and the relentless drive to compete.
Red connects us to South Australia’s rich sporting heritage; from Brett Maher and Issy Borlase wearing the red jersey as juniors before rising to national prominence, to the heart of our participants, young, old and of all abilities. It symbolises the pride we carry each time we step onto the floor wearing our state colours or in the way we advocate for our sport.
South Australian Blue – Unity and Integrity
The South Australian blue grounds our brand; calm, strong and dependable. It represents integrity, trust, and the connection that unites our basketball community. It is packed stadiums, the roar after a buzzer beater, and the determination of every player who steps onto the court. It honours the trailblazers who shaped our game; from Lorraine Eiler, whose influence opened doors for generations of South Australian women and Noel Woollacott, whose pioneering work laid the foundations for the sport we enjoy today. Blue reminds us that we are part of something larger than ourselves; a shared commitment to the game, to each other, and to the heritage that defines South Australian basketball. Blue is the link between our people and our purpose.
South Australian Yellow – Energy and Aspiration
The South Australian yellow is our energy and aspiration. It captures the spark that drives us and the excitement we feel every time we pick up a basketball. Yellow is the joy of practicing in driveways, the buzz of carnivals across the state, and the freedom of shooting hoops at a local court with family and friends. It represents every stage of the game; the referees finding their confidence, the coaches guiding the next generation, the volunteers creating safe and welcoming environments, and the players — young and old — who keep showing up because they love our sport. Yellow is the optimism in our future and the momentum that keeps our community moving forward. It is the colour of joy, possibility, and the enduring commitment that defines basketball in South Australia.
This rebrand reinforces the goals outlined in our 2025–2028 Strategic Plan: One Team, One Goal, which sets a clear roadmap for the next four years. Guided by five strategic pillars of Participate, Develop, Places to Play, Collaborate, and Sustainable. Our refreshed identity is the visual expression of these priorities: a brand that champions inclusivity, celebrates growth, and unites every player, coach, referee, and supporter under one vision for the future of basketball in South Australia.
Media Enquiries:
Cindy Halkias
Brand & Communications Manager, Basketball South Australia
E: chalkias@basketballsa.com.au | P: 08 7088 0070
About Basketball SA
Basketball South Australia (Basketball SA) is the peak body responsible for the governance, growth, and strategic direction of basketball across South Australia.
We exist to lead, support, and connect our basketball community, from grassroots to elite, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and thriving environment for all participants. Our role spans across governance, competitions, officiating, coaching, high-performance pathways, education, inclusive pathways, infrastructure advocacy, and community engagement.
Basketball SA works collaboratively with associations, clubs, government, schools, and industry partners to deliver programs and services that enable basketball to be accessible and impactful in every corner of our state.
We are committed to driving positive change and upholding the integrity of the sport, guided by our core values: Respect, Accountability, Inclusivity, Collaboration, and Excellence.
