Basketball NSW is proud to open registrations for the inaugural Basketball NSW First Nations State Championships, an exciting new event that will celebrate First Nations culture while bringing young people from across New South Wales together through basketball.
Held on 28th & 29th of November 2026 at Sydney Olympic Park, the championships will welcome Under 16 First Nations boys and girls teams from around the state for a weekend centred on culture, community, development and connection.
The event has been created to provide meaningful opportunities for First Nations young people to connect with one another, celebrate their culture, develop their basketball skills and experience the pathways our basketball can offer.
Basketball NSW, Interim CEO, David Simpson said the inaugural championships represent an important step in continuing to create opportunities for First Nations communities across the state.
“Basketball has a unique way of bringing people together, and that’s exactly what this weekend is about,” Simpson said.
“We’re creating an environment where young people can celebrate who they are, connect with other First Nations athletes from across New South Wales and enjoy some incredible experiences both on and off the court. We hope every participant leaves feeling inspired, connected and proud, and that this event becomes something communities look forward to being part of each year.”
The weekend begins on Saturday with a development day at Netball Central, where players, coaches and referees will all have the opportunity to learn from Basketball NSW and Sydney Kings and Sydney Flames coaching staff through a series of development clinics and education workshops.
Participants will then head to the Quaycentre to experience the Sydney Flames Indigenous Round, watching the Flames take on the reigning WNBL Champions, the Townsville Fire. Subject to availability, the day will conclude with the chance to meet Sydney Flames players and coaches, giving participants a memorable experience alongside some of Australia’s elite athletes.
On Sunday, the focus turns to competition as teams return to Netball Central for the inaugural Basketball NSW First Nations State Championships. Round-robin games, finals and presentations will provide the opportunity to showcase their skills while continuing to build friendships, strengthen community connections and celebrate First Nations culture together.
Basketball NSW is inviting associations and organisations from across New South Wales to be part of this landmark event by entering Under 16 First Nations boys and girls teams. Team registrations are $330, with participating teams responsible for their own travel, accommodation, meals and uniforms.
Teams should comprise a majority of First Nations players. Basketball NSW recognises that strong community and cultural connections can extend beyond Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants. Where a team includes non-Indigenous players with strong connections to the team or community, Basketball NSW will consider eligibility in the spirit of inclusion and the purpose of the championships.
The inaugural First Nations State Championships are another important step in Basketball NSW’s commitment to creating welcoming and inclusive opportunities for First Nations communities. By bringing together players, coaches and officials from across the state, the event aims to celebrate culture, strengthen connections and continue building pathways for the next generation.
Team registrations are now open for the inaugural Basketball NSW First Nations State Championships – applications must be completed by an organisation and or association.
Registrations close on 15th of November 2026, or earlier if all available team positions are filled.
CLICK HERE to register.
Key Information
Event: Inaugural Basketball NSW First Nations State Championships
Dates: Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 November 2026
Venue: Sydney Olympic Park (Netball Central & Quay Centre)
Age Group: Under 16 Boys & Under 16 Girls
Who Can Enter: Associations and organisations from across New South Wales
Team Entry Fee: $330 per team
Registrations: Must be submitted by an association or organisation HERE
Registration Deadline: 15 November 2026, or earlier if all team positions are filled
For more information contact Basketball NSW, Head of Participation & Community Annie La Fleur OLY [email protected]