World-Class Facility Close For Phoenix

By Dan Woods - NBL Media
Photo: South East Melbourne Phoenix Media

The development of the South East Melbourne Phoenix’s new facility is well underway, with the club expecting to move into its new training base near the start of the 2023-24 season.

A crucial aspect of the $132 million redevelopment is allowing the club’s administration staff to operate on the same premises as the performance team, while also providing the playing group with world class facilities.

"This facility is a game changer for our franchise and will become a draw card for athletes from all around the world," South East Melbourne Phoenix CEO Tommy Greer told the club's website. 

"It will provide world-leading training and recovery facilities that will put us at the forefront of the NBL when it comes to a high-performance facility.

"It's incredibly exciting for South East Melbourne ... this region is the home of basketball in Australia and a facility of this calibre just proves it further.”

Photo: South East Melbourne Phoenix Media. Phoenix CEO Tommy Greer along with Basketball Australia, Basketball Victoria, Deakin Melboure Boomers, and Knox Basketball with the Minister of Sport Steve Dimopoulos in front of the new steel skeleton of the expansion.

The Andrews Labor government committed $105 million to fund the project, with the Knox City Council providing a further $27 million in the hopes of creating the premier basketball facility in the state.

The steel skeleton of the facility is now in the process of being installed.

"Basketball is huge in Victoria, and we're investing so more people can enjoy taking part in the sport they love, our top teams can train and be their best, and local sports have top class facilities," Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said.

"From community sports to elite competition, we're supporting our basketballers and gymnasts to excel."

The redevelopment will include:
- 12 new indoor courts – taking the total number of indoor courts to 18 
- Long-term home of Knox basketball – delivering for the growth in the community
- Provide administrative base for not only the Phoenix, but for Deakin Melbourne Boomers, along with Basketball Australia, Basketball Victoria, and Knox Basketball
- Once competed in 2023, the centre will host up to two million visitors a year
- Will support more than 500 jobs in construction and more than 100 ongoing roles once completed
- A regional gymnastics facility

The Phoenix are set to play three home games at the State Basketball Centre during NBL23, all of which happen in January.