The strength of our region’s elite basketball pathway has been showcased on the international stage, with Bendigo success stories shining at the Olympic Games in Paris.
Home-grown NBA star Dyson Daniels was among our standout performers as the Australian men reached the quarter finals.
Dyson’s selection for the Boomers at the Olympic tournament capped his rise to the international ranks, having taken his first steps as a basketballer here at Red Energy Arena.
After learning the basics in our Biddy Ball and Ford Aussie Hoops programs, he joined the Aztec club before graduating to the Junior Braves, state and national representative teams, NBL1 Braves and the NBA global academy.
Renowned for his defensive skills, the now Atlanta Hawks NBA guard also displayed his talents in offence in Paris, shooting 8.5 points per game and averaging 3.5 assists as a key member of the team.
Former Junior Braves guard Matthew Dellavedova also played important minutes, with the Maryborough-raised veteran bringing his famed defensive intensity to the court in his role from the bench.
Sadly for our men, the Boomers fell short of a medal in Paris but our two central Victorian exports acquitted themselves superbly.
“Ultimately, it’s a reflection of the Bendigo basketball programs and the incredibly talented people who have assisted these athletes develop and reach their potential,” Craig Armstead, General Manager – Sport, Red Energy Arena, says.
The overall highlight of Australia’s campaign was undoubtedly the bronze medal success enjoyed by our women’s team, with Bendigo Braves star Amy Atwell featuring in the squad.
Amy was a key member of the Braves’ undefeated NBL1 championship season in 2023, while also making her Opals debut that year.
She initially missed selection for the Olympics squad but was called up as an injury replacement, playing an important support role as the Opals grew into the tournament.
Congratulations to Amy and her Opals teammates, including former Bendigo Spirit and Braves star Tess Madgen and new Spirit signing Marianna Tolo, on their incredible performance!
There was also a strong Bendigo flavour in the women’s 3×3 competition, where Braves and Spirit star Alex Wilson was part of the Gangarrus’ squad.
The Australian team, which also featured former Spirit players Anneli Maley and Marena Whittle, started the tournament brightly and secured a famous win over the United States before falling just short of the semi-finals.
“It is amazing to consider the representation of Bendigo basketball athletes at the Paris Olympic Games, the biggest sporting event in the world,” Armstead says.
“We have female and male athletes making significant contributions to Australian basketball on the world stage.”
Now is a great time to look at how your budding hoops star can join our junior pathway, with great coaching and a supportive environment available. Click here to find out more.
All photos courtesy of FIBA.