The 52nd McDonald’s Ballarat Junior Tournament is set to take place this coming King’s Birthday long weekend, welcoming a record 408 teams from across Victoria and interstate – a 4.3% increase on last year’s already impressive 391 teams.
Now in its 52nd year, the McDonald’s Ballarat Junior Tournament is a flagship event in the Victorian junior basketball calendar, known for its highly competitive divisions, welcoming atmosphere, and exceptional organisation. Teams from grassroots domestic clubs to top-level representative programs take part, providing a wide and inclusive range of experiences for young athletes and families.
Ballarat Basketball acknowledges the long-standing and valued partnership with McDonald’s Ballarat, whose support has been instrumental in the tournament’s growth and continued success.
Chris Thornton, Partnerships & Marketing Manager at Ballarat Basketball, said, “This event is a true celebration of junior basketball, and we’re thrilled to once again hit capacity with a record number of teams. The economic and community impact this tournament brings to Ballarat is enormous, and it wouldn’t be possible without the continued support of McDonald’s Ballarat. They’ve been a loyal and generous partner for many years, and we’re proud to have them alongside us for the 52nd edition.”
Capped and full, this year’s tournament cements its reputation as one of the largest junior basketball tournaments in Victoria, and arguably, nationally. The three-day event will have games run from Saturday morning through to Monday afternoon and be held across 23 courts at 6 venues within the Ballarat region, with Selkirk Stadium serving as the central hub for the event.
Featuring teams from under-12s through to under-20s, the tournament will welcome an estimated 5,300+ players, coaches, staff, and officials to Ballarat, along with over 15,000 spectators. The tournament is expected to generate over 37,000 bed nights and deliver an estimated $13 million economic impact to the Ballarat region across accommodation, hospitality, retail, and tourism sectors.
Nev Ivey, CEO of Ballarat Basketball, said, “The McDonald’s Ballarat Junior Tournament continues to be a cornerstone event for our association and our city. The scale of this year’s tournament not only reflects the strength of junior basketball in the region but also the trust and enthusiasm that teams across Victoria and beyond have in the experience we deliver. Beyond the court, this event has become a major economic driver for Ballarat, injecting millions into local accommodation, hospitality, and retail businesses. It’s a testament to what sport can do for regional communities, and we’re proud to continue building that legacy alongside McDonald’s Ballarat.”
In addition to basketball, the event will see a wide range of local businesses, volunteers, and service providers come together to support the smooth delivery of games and hospitality, reinforcing Ballarat’s reputation as a premier regional sporting destination.