MELBOURNE, VIC — Wheelchair Basketball Australia presented by BrightSky Australia is proud to announce the upcoming Kevin Coombs Indigenous Round, scheduled for July 3–5, 2026.
This significant round celebrates the profound impact and enduring legacy of Indigenous athletes within the sport of wheelchair basketball. Named in honour of the legendary Kevin Coombs OAM - a five-time Paralympian and the first Indigenous Australian to represent the nation at an Olympic or Paralympic Games - the weekend serves as both a celebration of culture and a showcase of elite athletic talent.
We are particularly proud to unveil this year's stunning Indigenous Round artwork, designed by the talented DJ McDowell White. This vibrant design represents the connection, culture, and journey of our athletes.
NWBL: The Men’s competition will converge on Narrandjeri Stadium in Melbourne for this season's "Cluster Round". All six teams will compete in one location, offering fans a unique opportunity to witness the entire league in action across a single weekend.
The festivities begin on Friday, July 3, with a "high stakes" Corporate Challenge combining our valuable partners and elite athletes, continuing into the evening with a special function dedicated to honouring the contributions of Indigenous athletes. This will be followed by a packed schedule of six games over Saturday and Sunday.
WNWBL: The Women’s competition will see Indigenous Round celebrations span across the country with a series of home-and-away clashes in Sydney and the Gold Coast. The matchups include the Sydney Blues hosting the Perth Wheelcats, the Gold Coast Rollers taking on the Victoria Wonders and the Sydney Lions at home to the Adelaide Thunder.
John Palmer, Executive General Manager of Wheelchair Basketball Australia, added:
"The Kevin Coombs Indigenous Round is a cornerstone of our season, and we have a vision to grow this weekend into a highlight of our league. It is a privilege to celebrate the rich history and enduring impact of Indigenous athletes who have shaped wheelchair basketball in Australia. There is no better way to open NAIDOC week. We aren't just playing for points; we are playing to honour the legacy of pioneers like Kevin Coombs and to inspire the next generation of First Nations stars.”
This round is made possible through the collaboration of many dedicated partners. We would like to thank Benny Mills, Leanne Miller, Outback Academy Australia, Red Dust Heelers, and the Darebin Basketball Association, along with all of our WNWBL and NWBL teams for their unwavering support.
All NWBL games across the weekend will be broadcast LIVE on KAYO freebies!
Media Contact:
John Palmer
Executive General Manager, WBA
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