How HoopsFest can inspire next generation

Wildcats legend Damian Martin is “over the moon” at the announcement of Perth’s HoopsFest to be held later this year, and believes the event will help inspire the next generation of Australian basketballers.

It was announced on Thursday every game of the NBL25 opening round fixture would be played in Perth, alongside a WNBL Tournament and the first ever Foot Locker U18 Club Championships.

The event will also host a Sneakerland expo, and fan zone that will feature live music and events.

“I think it’s a wonderful concept to be able to bring the most talented athletes in Australia to one town to showcase the NBL, WNBL and the next generation of basketball,” Martin said.

“Hopefully a lot of West Australians get behind it, but more importantly we see a lot of interstate travel and they not only enjoy the basketball on the court, but spend some time getting to see the beauty we have here in Perth and the state in general.

“I’m over the moon for it, because it’s going to inspire a lot of people to get involved in a sport we absolutely love.

“Between the Cockburn Cougars, the Wolves, whoever it might be, we’ve got strong basketball associations here in Western Australia. They might support the Lynx or the Wildcats, but jump on board and find a second favourite team.

“Get behind the Bullets while they’re in town, or the JackJumpers, or whoever it might be. It’s a great initiative to inspire the next generation.

“My daughters love watching the Lynx, but all of a sudden they’re going to get to see multiple games across multiple days and, I daresay, find some new favourite players who wear different jerseys.”

The event will kick off with an NLB24 Championship Series rematch between Melbourne and Tasmania, following the hometown Perth Lynx’s clash with the Sydney Uni Flames.

There are set to be 13 elite level games played in Perth across four days, and NBL CEO David Stevenson says it’s important to ensure the event is family-friendly.

“One of the most important things for HoopsFest is to make sure it is very accessible for families,” Stevenson said. “I’m proud to let you know our basketball families’ tickets will start from as little as $9 for kids, $25 for adults, and $60 for a family. 

“Incredible value for people all over the country to come and experience the premium basketball experience right here in Perth, Western Australia."

Fans can pre-register their interest for tickets now at Hoopsfest.com.au, with tickets, at the best rate, to the basketball family on sale from Friday, May 31, and general public tickets on sale from Tuesday, June 4.