Chris Anstey, Victorian and Australian legend is bringing his old Mavericks teammate - Dirk Nowitzki to Australia to give basketball lovers, young and old, the chance to meet the NBA legend and learn a few tricks along the way.
Anstey convinced Dirk to fly to the other side of the world to meet and greet Aussie fans with a little bit of a carrot, the Australian Open. Dirk is a bit of a tennis fan and has always wanted to experience it.
Anstey has created two events for Dirk to appear at, a practical on court experience for the younger fans to ask questions, take home a tip or two, meet the man himself and get a photo with him. The second event is designed for the older fans who want to sit and listen to Dirk’s stories and memories of the game he is famous for.
As Anstey says, “I think the highlight of Dirk’s visit, is still going to be listening to Dirk speak, watching him, watching him demonstrate some of the shooting drills he has used, and every kid that turns up to the camp will get to meet Dirk and have their photo taken with him.”
He explains the best thing about creating these events is that fans can meet their heroes, not normally accessible to Australian fans.
Dirk will talk about leadership, loyalty and how to turn around your success when you are struggling, which Aussie fans will be listening to intently.
Looking to 2023, Anstey plans to bring out more great basketball legends for the Aussie fans to meet, however he is careful to acknowledge that people get value for their experience.
” We want to make sure there's value in bringing these people down, that they give the Aussie public more than just a photo or an autograph. We are so far away from everywhere else in the world that it's so good to have these amazing people come out.”
So, if you want a chance to meet an NBA legend over the school holidays, book your ticket to meet Dirk - tickets for the Melbourne events are nearly sold out.
Or if you’re feeling lucky – keep an eye on Basketball Victoria’s Facebook and Instagram profiles on December 27 for your chance to win 2 tickets to see the greatest international player to set foot on the NBA hardwood.
