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Basketball Illawarra is seeking feedback for our 2025-2028 Strategic Plan . Please contact Nathan Loveday at nathan.loveday@snakepit.com.au by Monday, the 23rd of June, with any feedback. You can access our Strategic Plan Draft here .

Basketball Illawarra is hosting a 100 Number Fundraiser to support Bob Cannon and our Illawarra Athletes in their travels to the 2025 FIMBA World Championships. To enter: Contact Nathan Loveday on 0416636006 or email nathan.loveday@snakepit.com.au Each Number is $20 - please note all proceeds go to the cause. Donate to the association bank account: ILLAWARRA BASKETBALL ACCOUNT #: 195385877 BSB: 633 000 Description- Last Name 100 Club- example SMITH 100 CLUB We have been fortunate and are grateful for the local business that have donated their goods and services. The below prizes will be able to be selected in order that the numbers are drawn. $50 ILLAWARRA HOTEL VOUCHER 2 X SEASON TICKETS TO NBL1 CARLSON HIZON FITNESS VOUCHER (VALUED AT $400) 2 x DRUMMOND GOLF GIFT PACKS - THANKS TO DRUMMOND GOLF SHELLHARBOUR IBA MERCHANDISE PACK ILLAWARRA HAWKS SIGNED SINGLET VOUCHER FOR 10 INDIVIDUAL TO PLAY BAREFOOT BOWLS AT THE WISO HIS BOY ELROY $50 VOUCHER ILLAWARRA HAWKS MERCHANDISE PACK Please see below the number list - updated daily.

On Saturday, June 14, our NBL1 Home Game VS Bankstown, we’re inviting all past players, coaches, and team staff from every era of IBA's NBL1 and equivalent senior teams to return to the Snakepit for a special night of recognition, reflection, and reconnection. This is IBA Hawks Old Boys & Kitty Hawks Round , and it’s our chance to celebrate the people who helped build the foundations of our NBL1 Men’s and Women’s programs — from the early days of SBL, SEAB, SBC, ABA, Waratah Division 1 and beyond, through to the current NBL1 East competition. 🏀 Game Details: Women’s Game:  5:00 PM vs Bankstown Men’s Game:  7:00 PM vs Bankstown Date: June 14th 📍 The Snakepit 🎟️ All ex-players, coaches and managers who RSVP will receive: Free entry on the night A complimentary drink voucher Access to a dedicated area to catch up with teammates and fellow alumni On-court recognition during the halftime of both games It doesn’t matter if you played in the 80s or the 2020s — if you were part of our senior rep journey, we want to see you there! ➡️ RSVP by completing this short form:   https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdsxm0u3uAhtp3XnF-AF5vUq0jX4du4gEDFNtROKu5ELiPhXg/viewform?usp=dialog Please feel free to share this with your ex-teammates, your help to spread the word is key to a great night. Let’s fill the Snakepit and celebrate our shared history — one that continues to inspire the next generation of players, coaches, and fans.

Grab your Membership Package here . IBA Hawks Membership Packages for the upcoming 2025 NBL1 East Season are on sale now! Support your home teams by purchasing a Season Pass and unlock exclusive benefits such as a member merch item, 10% off at the Snakepit Bar, and access to events and opportunities over the season. Want to treat yourself? We have a limited number of Hollywood Seats available for purchase. Enjoy the ease of having your own personalised seat waiting for you courtside, plus complimentary drinks at each home game. You can purchase your chosen membership package here .

Illawarra Basketball Association (IBA) is excited to announce the re-signing of forward Brad Ballinger to the NBL1 Men's team for the 2025 season. As a current Development Player with the NBL Illawarra Hawks and a product of the Illawarra basketball system, Ballinger has demonstrated consistent growth and commitment to the sport in the region. At 18, Ballinger has been an integral part of the IBA development pathway. In the 2024 NBL1 season, he averaged 11.27 points, 6.20 rebounds, and 1.53 assists per game, showcasing his versatility and impact on the court. Illawarra’s own Ballinger has come full circle, starting his basketball journey in the U12s with Illawarra Basketball is now returning to the NBL1 team after making NBL debut this year. His rise through the ranks is a testament to years of dedication and hard work. Beyond representing his home association, Ballinger has proudly worn the NSW jersey multiple times throughout his junior career, most recently competing at the U20 Nationals. His experience on the national stage has provided him with valuable exposure and development opportunities. Expressing his enthusiasm for the upcoming season, Ballinger stated: "I've played at Illawarra throughout my whole career, and I'm excited to continue my journey in the Gong for this year's NBL1 season under coach Matt Flinn." Head Coach Matt Flinn highlighted the significance of Ballinger's re-signing: "Brad’s signing is proof that the club's ethos to give juniors a linear pathway into the NBL is real. We hope there are more Illawarra kids to come who are given the opportunity to play significant NBL1 roles. Brad has good size at his position, and after a year training full-time with the Hawks, we have high hopes that his basketball trajectory is moving in the right direction and he has a real impact. As a coaching staff, we are looking forward to continuing the basketball journey with Brad and, more importantly, him paving the way for more Illawarra juniors to succeed." Brad Ballinger’s journey is a testament to the Illawarra Pathway’s goal of developing great people and elite basketball athletes. However, while IBA has played a role in his development, Brad’s success is ultimately a result of his hard work, dedication, and the unwavering support of his family. Their sacrifices and commitment have been instrumental in helping him reach this stage of his career. Season tickets are now on sale! Secure your spot at our NBL1 home opener on March 29th against Maitland. 🔗 Get your season tickets here: Click Here

IBA Welcomes Kobe McDowell-White to NBL1 Men’s Team Illawarra Basketball Association (IBA) is excited to announce the signing of Kobe McDowell-White to the NBL1 Men’s team for the 2025 season. A dynamic guard with a strong basketball pedigree, McDowell-White brings youth, energy, and elite playmaking skills to the squad as the team continues to build towards a competitive and high-performance program. McDowell-White is currently a development player with the Illawarra Hawks in the NBL, where he has been playing and training alongside some of the league’s best talent and gaining valuable experience at the professional level. His time with the Hawks has allowed him to refine his skills under elite coaching while adapting to the demands of top-tier competition. Prior to his time in the NBL, McDowell-White had a standout season in NBL1 North with the Sunshine Coast Phoenix, averaging 15.6 points, 6.1 assists, and 3.8 rebounds per game. His ability to control the floor, create for teammates, and make a major impact on both ends of the court was on full display throughout the season, positioning him as an exciting young prospect heading into 2025. Head Coach Matt Flinn expressed his excitement about McDowell-White joining the squad: " Kobe is a proven PG at NBL1 Level and coaching against him in the North for the last 3 seasons I always admired his ability to compete and make plays. He makes people better around him. I have enjoyed coaching him this year at the NBL level and really looking forward to watching him develop further through our NBL1 program " For McDowell-White, joining the NBL1 Hawks is the next step in his ongoing development as he continues to push towards securing a long-term professional career. " I’m really excited to stay and play here for Illawarra. I truly believe this will take my game to the next level, especially learning from Flinny and the likes of Todd aswell. I’m excited to further my connections with those guys and both were a big reason why I chose to stay here. Also the community support is second to none and I can’t wait to keep experiencing that throughout the NBL1 season. " With the 2025 season fast approaching, the Illawarra NBL1 Men’s team is shaping up to be an exciting squad to watch, and McDowell-White’s addition brings another level of talent and potential to a group looking to make a serious impact.  Season tickets are now on sale! Secure your spot at our NBL1 home opener on March 29th against Maitland. 🔗 Get your season tickets here: Click Here

Illawarra Basketball Association Major Signing: Todd Blanchfield Joins NBL1 Hawks Men's Team Illawarra Basketball Association (IBA) is thrilled to announce the signing of veteran forward Todd Blanchfield to the NBL1 Men's team. This significant acquisition marks the first of many signings to strengthen the squad and elevate the Men’s Program for the 2025 season. Blanchfield, an athlete with an impressive career that includes over 400 games played in the National Basketball League, brings a wealth of experience and versatility to the team. Known for his elite shooting ability and high basketball IQ, he has been a key contributor to multiple NBL clubs, including the Illawarra Hawks, most recently. Blanchfield’s performance in last season’s NBL1 North competition underscores his ongoing excellence. In the 2024 NBL1 North season, he led the Mackay Meteors to a championship victory, earning Finals MVP honours. His consistent high-level play demonstrates his readiness to make an immediate impact on the Illawarra NBL1 Men's program. Head Coach Matt Flinn expressed his excitement about the addition: "Todd is a pro’s pro. He is a 16-year NBL vet with more years left in him at the highest level of basketball in Australia. At the NBL1 level, there is not a team in the country that wouldn’t want him as a part of their roster, and we are thrilled that he decided to play here and help us grow the NBL1 franchise in Illawarra." "In discussions about him staying here in the gong, most of the c hat was about how he can help the younger players coming through develop and how much he is looking forward to playing at the Snakepit. That in itself speaks volumes about his character within this sport. He will be a guy that will be super fun to watch play, and I, for one, can’t wait to coach him again.” From an IBA perspective, Blanchfield's signing represents more than just an elite-level acquisition—it brings leadership, professionalism, and a championship mindset to the NBL1 Men’s team. His presence is expected to set a high standard within the squad, mentoring emerging local talent and ensuring the team is ready to compete at the highest level in 2025. Blanchfield himself is looking forward to the opportunity: "I'm really excited to be staying in the Illawarra and playing with the NBL1 team this season. The Snakepit has such a rich history, and it's great to be part of a program that is focused on a pathway for players aspiring to reach the professional level. I’m looking forward to playing in front of the local fans at the Pit and working with Flinny and the squad as we build towards something special. I first played in NBL1 North when I was 16, so I know how important these opportunities are for young players. Being able to help guide the next generation while also bringing a winning mentality to the group is something I’m really excited about." IBA Head of Basketball, Ben Bagoly, also highlighted the impact of Blanchfield’s signing: "We are delighted to have Todd and his family stay in the Illawarra during his NBL offseason. His professionalism, leadership, and experience will be a huge asset for the NBL1 players and our entire men’s senior program." "Todd's presence in the team will provide mentorship for the younger guys coming through, reinforcing the culture and professionalism we are striving to build at IBA." "I’d also like to thank Illawarra Hawks and Mat Campbell for their support in getting this over the line. Their support of the NBL1 program really assists us in growing our pathway for all players." Blanchfield's signing also reinforces the growing alignment between IBA and the Illawarra Hawks, further solidifying the two organisation's Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement aims to strengthen the basketball pathway from junior and senior representative basketball to the professional level, ensuring seamless development opportunities for players in the region. Todd Blanchfield’s Impact on the Hawks’ NBL Finals Run Blanchfield has been great in the Illawarra Hawks’ 2024/25 NBL season, helping the team into the NBL Finals. His experience, leadership, and clutch shooting have been an asset in helping steer the Hawks into postseason contention, and the Illawarra basketball community is eagerly awaiting his and the team's performance on the biggest stage. The Hawks’ NBL Finals campaign kicks off in Wollongong at the WIN Entertainment Centre on Friday, 28th February at 7:30 pm. Season Tickets Now Available – Secure Your Spot! With Todd Blanchfield leading the charge, the Illawarra NBL1 Men's team is set for an exciting season, and fans won’t want to miss the action at The Snakepit. 🎟️ Season tickets are now on sale! Secure your spot at our NBL1 home opener on March 29th against Maitland and be part of what promises to be a thrilling campaign. 🔗 Get your season tickets here: Click Here Stay tuned for some more big NBL1 Men signings this week.

The first Active Kids Voucher of 2025 is now available to claim for eligible parents of children 4.5 - 18 years old. Perfect timing for the upcoming Term 1 programs and Autumn Junior Competition season! If you still haven't used your 2024 Voucher 2 yet, don't stress - these are valid until the 14th of July 2025, and can be combined with 2025 Voucher 1 for a total of $100 off! You can apply online here . How do I use my Active Kids Voucher when registering? Once you have filled out the initial forms, at the payment terminal there will be a button that says + Government Voucher (see below). Click this to open the input window. Add in the details of the Active Kids Voucher, and click 'Apply Code'. The amount will be taken off the total.

Basketball Illawarra is proud to announce the continuation of its partnership with Tread Right Podiatry & Biomechanics for 2025 and 2026. This marks the first time the podiatry clinic has signed a two-year contract with IBA, reflecting the deepening commitment to supporting the growth and development of basketball in the Illawarra community. Peter Macfarlane, Director and Principal Podiatrist of Tread Right Podiatry & Biomechanics, shared his enthusiasm about the extended partnership: "Although we have been sponsors since 2022, this year is a first for us, signing a 2-year contract. It is such a special opportunity to be able to give back to our community, not only in a financial capacity, but through implementation of educational presentations assisting our up-and-coming sports stars in reducing ankle injuries and getting more from their legs and feet to improve their skills." The sponsorship aims to benefit both the local community and the players by offering ongoing support to IBA's mission, with a focus on injury prevention, education, and foot and ankle health. Tread Right's dedication to helping all athletes thrive is evident through the hands-on podiatric care provided, including specialised treatments for knee, ankle, and foot injuries that help players stay at their best. "The aim of our sponsorship with IBA was for Tread Right Podiatry & Biomechanics to give back to our Illawarra community. When we started our small business some 13 years ago, we had always set our minds on being able to get the business to a position to give back,"  Peter continued. "This sponsorship has exceeded that dream. The IBA community has been a blessing to us. They have allowed us opportunities to celebrate their wins through invitations to home games, presentation evenings, and to develop relationships with players who have entrusted us in providing our hands-on podiatry care for their sore knees, ankles, and feet." The partnership has not only allowed Tread Right to contribute to the community's success but has also fostered lasting relationships with players, coaches, and staff, reinforcing a shared commitment to the health and well-being of young athletes. Executive General Manager at IBA, Nathan Loveday, expressed his pride in the continuation of such a great partnership between the two organisations: "Illawarra Basketball is extremely proud to have Tread Right Podiatry back on board for 2025. Pete and Hayley have been fantastic supporters of our association and we are stoked to have them on board. They are a fantastic organisation and someone we are proud to have associated with us and we hope all our members maximise the benefits of this fantastic partnership" . Peter concludes, "We can’t wait to see where this 2-year sponsorship takes us both, and are looking forward to the current relationships that will be strengthened and new ones that will grow." Illawarra Basketball Association looks forward to another successful partnership with Tread Right Podiatry & Biomechanics, with the goal of enhancing the health, performance, and longevity of local athletes for the coming years.

The Illawarra Basketball Association (IBA) is delighted to announce Ella Dent's return to the Illawarra Hawks for the 2025 season. A product of our junior program, Ella has been a pivotal player since her debut in 2021. Known for her exceptional skills and leadership on the court, Ella has consistently demonstrated her commitment to the team's success. Her dedication and passion for the game have made her an integral part of the Hawks' lineup. Expressing her enthusiasm, Ella shared: "Coming back for another year with my junior club and getting to play alongside some of the girls I grew up playing with and watching is pretty exciting. I’m very much looking forward to a competitive season and seeing how far we can go." In addition to her contributions to the Hawks, Ella has been involved with the Sydney Flames' "Future Flames" program, an initiative aimed at bridging the gap between rising talent in New South Wales and professional opportunities. This program provides aspiring athletes with access to professional-level coaching, strength and conditioning programs, and mentorship, offering a comprehensive pathway to the professional ranks. Head Coach Rod Tremlett also commented on Ella's return: "I am very excited to have Ella sign with the Hawks again for the 2025 season. Ella is an outstanding young player and is widely recognised as one of the best young prospects in NSW. After a stint with the Future Flames Academy, it was a high priority for the Club to gain Ella’s signature again for the upcoming season. Not only is Ella an outstanding young player on the court, she is also a role model off the court, very giving with her time and universally loved at IBA. I can’t wait to get to work with Ella and the team to see what we can achieve this season!" IBA looks forward to the contributions Ella will bring, anticipating a dynamic and competitive season ahead. Stay turned for more NBL1 Signings.

Basketball Illawarra is thrilled to announce the 2025 Junior Representative Teams ! We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the athletes who participated in this year’s trials. The effort, dedication, and passion displayed on the court were truly inspiring. A big thank you also goes to the families of these athletes for their unwavering support throughout this process. This year’s selection process was very competitive, with an incredible level of talent and commitment from all involved. Congratulations to those selected, this is a fantastic opportunity to represent Illawarra Basketball at the highest levels of junior competition. A special mention must go to our amazing volunteers and coaches who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. Your hard work and dedication have been instrumental in ensuring a smooth and professional trial process, and we couldn’t have done it without you. The 2025 season promises to be an exciting year, and we can’t wait to see our teams take the court and represent the Illawarra with pride. To all our athletes, we encourage you to continue working hard, supporting one another, and striving for excellence both on and off the court. The full list of teams can be found below. Let’s make 2025 a season to remember!

Illawarra Basketball Association (IBA) is proud to announce the appointment of Matthew Flinn, affectionately known as “Flinny,” as the new Head Coach for the NBL1 East Men’s team for the 2025 season. A homegrown athlete and coach, Flinny’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the senior men’s program at IBA. Flinny's basketball journey began in the Illawarra region, where he grew up honing his skills at the Snakepit as an 8-year-old through the Illawarra Junior Rep Program, a multiple NSW rep and ultimately an NBL player with the Illawarra Hawks. Flinny has experienced firsthand the power of the Illawarra basketball pathway.  “I’m incredibly honoured to be stepping into this role, I was born and bred here so naturally there will be some extra motivation to rep the place that I grew up in, if it wasn't for the pathway established all those years ago through this place I would not be here.” Flinny said. “This is not just about coaching a team, nor is it about me, it’s about building a legacy and trying to re-create a pathway for our athletes to reach the NBL and beyond. Having walked this path myself, I understand the opportunities in front of young athletes, if you can see it and touch it , you can be it. I am so pumped that the Hawks NBL team are a part of this thing". Flinny brings a wealth of experience to the program, having served as a long-term NBL assistant and former head coach of the Illawarra Hawks. He also built the Darwin Salties in the NBL1 North competition from scratch, a team that made the playoffs all three years of its existence. His track record includes developing emerging talent, fostering team cultures built on hard work and resilience, and creating competitive programs that aim for national recognition.  His vision for the senior men’s program is bold: establishing it as a premier pathway for basketball athletes and building a competitive program nationally. Central to this vision is the integration of IBA’s junior and senior pathways, ensuring local talent can see a clear and achievable path to the NBL and beyond. “Our goal is to create a men’s program that not only the Illawarra community can be proud of, but truly a linear pathway for talent, it won't be a short term fix, We’ll be fostering a competitive environment while maintaining a strong focus on player development, providing opportunities for athletes to thrive at every level. Not too many people know this but our club has produced more NBL players than nearly any other association in Australia, we want to continue that” The Snakepit has long been a place where talent is nurtured and celebrated, and with Flinny at the helm of the Men's program, IBA is poised to strengthen its position as a leader in basketball development. His appointment is a testament to the Association’s commitment to supporting its athletes and fostering a culture of excellence across all levels of the game. “We’re thrilled to have Matt lead our NBL1 Men’s team,” said IBA Head of Basketball, Ben Bagoly. “His deep connection to the region, combined with his professional expertise and passion for player development, aligns perfectly with our vision for the program and the IBA Pathway.” As Flinny steps into this pivotal role, the future of the Illawarra NBL1 Men’s program looks brighter than ever. With his leadership, the team is set to build on its proud history and solidify its place as a cornerstone of basketball in the region. Flinny’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for basketball in the Illawarra region. Six months ago, IBA and the Illawarra Hawks formalised a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at fostering basketball development from the grassroots to the professional level. As a current assistant coach for the NBL Illawarra Hawks, Flinny’s two roles further bridge the connection between the two organisations. His appointment as NBL1 Men's Head Coach strengthens the collaborative efforts outlined in the MOU, ensuring that young athletes in the region benefit from a cohesive and supportive basketball ecosystem. “This is an exciting appointment, not just for IBA, but for the Illawarra Hawks and the broader basketball community in the region,” said Illawarra Hawks CEO Stu Taggart. “Matt is uniquely positioned to drive the expanding alignment between our two organisations, helping to create stronger elite player and coach development pathways to enable consistent NBL1 on court performance while also supporting the shared delivery of signature Illawarra Hawks and IBA community programs.” Flinny’s leadership will not only drive the success of the NBL1 Men's program but will also play a crucial role in enhancing the region’s basketball pathways. His involvement will ensure that the partnership between IBA and the Hawks continues to flourish, paving the way for future generations of Illawarra athletes. With Flinny at the helm, the Illawarra NBL1 Men's team is poised for a dynamic 2025 season, one that will inspire the local basketball community and solidify the region's reputation as a basketball powerhouse. NBL1 Trials start this weekend for more info and to register click the link below.