The Under-16 and Under-18 Boys and Girls Division 3, 4, and 5 Junior Country Championships took place on March 15-16, bringing together both new and returning faces of Nhill and Orbost. The weekend was filled with high-intensity matchups, nail-biting finishes, and a fantastic display of country basketball talent.
With two of the Under 18 boys games being close, in Division 4 Surfcoast nudged out Terang in overtime and in Division 5 country neighbours Mansfield won over Benalla by one point!
Championship Results
Under-16 Boys
• Division 3: Winner – Kyneton | Runner-Up – Maffra
• Division 4: Winner – Wangaratta | Runner-Up – Phillip Island
• Division 5: Winner – Hamilton | Runner-Up – Mansfield
• Division 6: Winner – Lakes Entrance | Runner-Up – Nhill
Under-16 Girls
• Division 3: Winner – Surfcoast | Runner-Up – Wangaratta
• Division 4: Winner – Mildura | Runner-Up – Warracknabeal
• Division 5: Winner – Maffra | Runner-Up – Bairnsdale
Under-18 Boys
• Division 3: Winner – Moe | Runner-Up – Portland
• Division 4: Winner – Surfcoast | Runner-Up – Terang
• Division 5: Winner – Mansfield | Runner-Up – Benalla
Under-18 Girls
• Division 3: Winner – Morwell | Runner-Up – Pakenham
• Division 4: Winner – Ararat | Runner-Up – Moe
A Weekend of Basketball Excellence
This year's championships provided a fantastic opportunity to showcase some of the state's newest facilities, with games held at Cobblebank Stadium (Melton) and MARC Stadium (Bacchus Marsh). The high attendance across the weekend contributed to an electric atmosphere, fueling the players’ performances and creating memorable moments for all involved.
The Junior Country Championships offer country athletes a valuable chance to compete against the best teams in regional Victoria, fostering both skill development and sportsmanship.
Looking ahead, the final age groups—Under-12 and Under-14—are set to take the stage in Bendigo and Ballarat throughout April school holidays. These upcoming tournaments promise to deliver more exciting basketball action as young athletes continue their journey in the sport.
To check the gallery click below
Stay tuned for more updates and results from the Junior Country Championships!
