Ballarat Basketball is excited to announce the return of The Sporting Globe Senior Tournament over the March long weekend, with record participation and a new junior event set to make this year’s tournament the biggest yet.
A total of 75 senior teams will take the court, marking a 22.9% increase over the past three years. As one of Victoria’s only senior basketball tournaments, the event continues to attract teams from across the state for a fun, social, competitive and entertaining weekend.
For the first time, a junior 3×3 tournament will be included, set for Sunday, March 9, featuring U15 and U17 boys (based on team entries). This exciting addition introduces younger athletes to a fast-paced, high-energy format, expanding the tournament’s reach and engagement.
Beyond the action on the court, the event delivers a significant economic boost to Ballarat, with over 1,000 players, coaches, officials, and supporters expected to visit, providing over 3,000 bed nights for the town. Local businesses, accommodation providers, and hospitality venues will benefit from the influx of visitors across the long weekend.
The tournament will also showcase practice matches from Big V teams, offering basketball fans a sneak peek at high-level competition before the 2025 season.
Ballarat Basketball extends its gratitude to The Sporting Globe Ballarat and its owners, Richard and Anne Alexander, for their continued support as naming rights partner. Their commitment has played a key role in the tournament’s expansion.
Chris Thornton, Partnerships & Marketing Manager at Ballarat Basketball, emphasized the impact of this partnership, stating, “The Sporting Globe Ballarat has been a fantastic supporter of Ballarat Basketball for a long time, and their investment has helped us take this tournament to the next level. With record growth and the addition of the junior 3×3 competition, we’re ensuring even more athletes can be part of the event.”
Richard & Anne Alexander, owners of The Sporting Globe Ballarat, added, “We again thank Basketball Ballarat for their collaboration and support on what is a significant weekend on Ballarat’s calendar. We are proud to continue as naming rights partners for this great event.”
Ballarat Basketball CEO, Nev Ivey, highlighted the tournament’s increasing impact: “The Sporting Globe Senior Tournament has become a major fixture on our calendar, and the rise in teams shows the strength of basketball in Ballarat. With the addition of the junior 3×3 tournament and elite-level practice matches, we’re expanding opportunities for players and fans alike. We thank The Sporting Globe Ballarat for their ongoing support in making this possible.”
With record participation, a new junior component, and elite-level showcase games, the 2025 Sporting Globe Senior Tournament is set to be the biggest and best yet.