First Nations Youth Make History as PCYC NSW Indigenous Basketball Team Heads to the U.S.

Amber Griffin

“It’s more than just sport.”

A team of 10 talented First Nations young people aged 14 to 16 are gearing up for the trip of a lifetime. In April 2026, they’ll tour the United States of America (USA) competing in Junior Varsity level basketball tournaments as part of PCYC NSW’s new Indigenous All-Stars sporting pathways program.

PCYC NSW CEO, Ben Hobby said, “This is the first time a 100 per cent First Nations youth basketball team from Australia will tour the USA.”

“Indigenous All-Stars is designed to be a life-changing and developmental experience for young Indigenous players. It provides exposure to international basketball opportunities while fostering leadership, teamwork, and personal growth. We’re looking forward to watching the team reach their full potential, whilst sharing our First Nation culture with those of other cultures they will meet as they tour across multiple U.S States.”

Indigenous All-Stars represent four First Nations from six PCYC locations across New South Wales: Lake Macquarie (Awabakal), Taree (Biripi), Hawkesbury (Dharug), Bathurst (Wiradjuri), Wellington (Wiradjuri), Wagga Wagga (Wiradjuri Mawang Gaway).

The itinerary spans across American states of Nevada, California and Utah. Players will be kept busy with basketball training, strength and conditioning coaching, tournament games at Junior Varsity level, attending College and NBA games, meeting College and professional athletes, providing community service, and one-on-one mentorship sessions.

Dharug player, 16-year-old Cody Smith said “Indigenous All-Stars means a great deal to me because it represents pride, connection, and growth. It’s more than just sport, it’s a way to celebrate culture, showcase Indigenous talent, and inspire the next generation.”

14-year-old Chase Neal is excited to travel and create unforgettable memories. “This opportunity will open doors, build my network and give me the motivation to keep working hard towards my goals on and off the court.”

The new PCYC NSW youth program is largely funded by the NSW Government. Hoops Capital also helped make All-Stars a reality. Executive Director and co-owner Matthew Denholm said, “We are proud to support PCYC NSW and emerging First Nations talent throughout the Indigenous All-Stars team.”

“This is an incredible opportunity to experience the best of international basketball, and the team will no doubt inspire their peers and the next generation of basketball players. With the soaring demand of basketball across Australia, we hope this will support stronger pathways for First Nations players into professional basketball.”

The All-Stars tour gets underway on March 31.

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First Nations Youth Make History as PCYC NSW Indigenous Basketball Team Heads to the U.S.

Amber Griffin

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