Victoria capped off a statement week at the 2025 Foot Locker U18 & National Junior Wheelchair Championships in Brisbane, claiming two national titles and top-five finishes across all five divisions.

With gold medal wins from Vic Country Men and Vic Metro Women, a fourth-place finish for Vic Country Women, and fifth-place results from Vic Metro Men and the Victorian Wheelchair team.

The standout moment came as Vic Country Men broke a 35-year drought, defeating NSW Metro 83–74 in a clinical Grand Final performance. After falling to the same opponent earlier in the tournament, Vic Country turned the tables when it counted — dominating inside, controlling the glass, and delivering under pressure.

Will Hamilton (17 points, 13 rebounds, 5 assists), Lucas Byrne (17 points, 10 rebounds), and Sonny Maxwell (18 points) powered the group to gold, with a defining 15–0 run in the third quarter proving decisive.

“I couldn’t be happier and more proud of this group of athletes and staff,” said Nathan Cooper-Brown, High Performance Head Coach – Country Men.

“This incredible achievement started five and a half years ago, when we had an entire community buy in to a new way of doing things. Three medals in three years is a testament to that long-term commitment — and this gold comes from the foundation laid by the groups who came before. We’re now looking to build on that success in the years ahead."

“To our incredible Country Victoria community — thank you. This gold medal moment belongs to all of us. From the coaches and staff to the families, volunteers, and every supporter who has stood behind our athletes, your belief, dedication, and passion helped carry us to the top."

“Watching the Vic Country Men break a 35-year drought was more than just basketball — it was the culmination of heart, hard work, and a shared dream,” Cooper-Brown added.

“Every camp, every early morning, every quiet act of support made this week unforgettable. We wear this success with pride — and we share it with each and every one of you.”

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On the women’s side, Vic Metro Women were untouchable, running the table undefeated and closing out the week with a 111–79 win over SA Metro in the Grand Final. Madison Ryan led a relentless Metro outfit with 22 points and 9 assists, backed by key contributions from Madelyn Angus (17 points) and Matilda Trout (14 points, 11 rebounds). Their speed, pressure, and depth overwhelmed opponents from start to finish.

“I am so unbelievably proud of this group” said High Performance Head Coach – Metro Women Jenna O’Hea.

“Everyone involved — from players, coaches, support staff, parents and family — were part of this gold medal win, and I’m sure we will all remember it for a long time.”

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Vic Country Women finished fourth overall after falling just short in their Bronze Medal matchup against NSW Metro. Mica Nightingale played a vital role throughout the week, averaging 12.0 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game, showcasing her presence on the court and ability to contribute in key moments.

“The Country Women finishing in the top 4 is an incredible achievement given the amount of talent at this year’s tournament,” said Zoe Carr, High Performance Head Coach – Country Women.

“Game after game they were able to beat teams that had defeated them two years prior in U16s. I’m proud of their ability to improve and challenge some great rosters.”

Vic Metro Men bounced back from a Quarter Final loss to defeat Queensland and finish fifth overall. Despite injuries leading into the tournament and facing a disrupted preparation, the group showed composure, adaptability, and strength in key moments. They closed out the week with a confident performance and a deserved win.

Jai Fa’ale stood out across the tournament, averaging 18.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, setting the tone with his leadership and all-around impact.

“We were hit with multiple injuries before even departing for the tournament, including two that required late replacements. Then once we arrived, the setbacks continued — with players managing concussion, hip, calf, and knee issues.” said Darren Best, High Performance Head Coach – Metro Men.

“To still bounce back and finish fifth is a testament to the depth of this program and the resilience of the entire group.”

In the National Junior Wheelchair Championship, Victoria was led by co-captains Mitchell Bond and Laura Davoli, with Bond averaging 14.7 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 1.3 assists across the week. Despite facing a number of injury setbacks and challenges before and throughout the tournament, the team continued to show grit to compete at a high level.

Their resilience was on full display during a strong final-day performance, finishing fifth-place and demonstrating the depth of talent and character within the squad.

“The KCC team and staff faced immense adversity with the spirit and heart that we have come to expect from this program,” said Zoe Carr, High Performance Head Coach.

“They battled against all odds and played every game demonstrating great sportsmanship and skill.”

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Victorian referees were also recognised for their excellence, with several selected to officiate on medal day — a reflection of the strength and development of officiating across the state.

Ben Sirianni was appointed to the U18 Men’s Bronze Medal Game, Ethan Clare to the U18 Women’s Bronze Medal Game, and Ty Hogdens to the National Junior Wheelchair Championship Gold Medal Game.

Also contributing to the week were Alexandra Lythgoe, Samantha Clayton and Armann Kumruyan, with Kumruyan serving in a referee coaching role. Their involvement highlights the important role officials play in shaping the integrity and flow of the game.

“Basketball Victoria is proud of the officials selected to attend the Championships and the professional manner in which they represented both themselves and our state,” said Kash Gaitley, Technical Officials Leagues & Competitions Manager.

“Selection for these Championships is a testament to their consistent high performance across our leagues and events over the past year. Additionally, those awarded a medal appointment at the end of the tournament received further recognition for their outstanding officiating throughout the week.”

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