Berwick College’s Basketball Academy is set to take on an international stage, after being selected to represent Australia at the prestigious NBA Rising Stars Invitational in Singapore this July.
The Berwick-based school is one of just two Australian teams invited to the tournament, a showcase of some of the best emerging talent across Asia.
For the coaches, staff, and players, it’s a moment of recognition and reflection.
Director of the Basketball Academy, Shannan Davey, said the invitation was a testament to the effort and consistency the program has built over time.
“This is an incredible reward for our boys and girls programs,” he said.
“It’s a true reflection of their hard work and consistency over the last 12 to 18 months.
“This opportunity validates the time and effort we’ve put into developing our student-athletes, both on and off the court.”
Berwick College’s selection comes off the back of a strong campaign at the 2024 Australian School Championships, where the team’s performance earned national attention.
However, for Davey and his team, the goal has always been more than just results.
“We aim to give our students an experience that they will remember for the rest of their lives,” Davey said.
Head Coach Gerard Leonard echoed the excitement, noting the significance of representing not just the school, but the country.
“We’re incredibly honoured to be representing Berwick College, our school community, and Australia at the NBA Rising Stars Invitational,” Leonard said.
“This is an extraordinary opportunity, and our selected team has worked tirelessly over the past 12 to 18 months, showing unwavering commitment and drive to reach this level.
“For them to be recognised with this invitation is a true credit to their hard work, discipline, and development both on and off the court.”
Leonard described the group as one that plays the game “the right way”, adding that the students live by values of “respect, integrity and teamwork”.
“I couldn’t be prouder to lead this group on the international stage.”
Set to take place in Singapore, the NBA Rising Stars Invitational is expected to bring together elite high school programs from across Asia.
For Berwick College, it’s a chance to test their mettle, embrace the challenge, and represent their school with pride.
“We can’t wait to get over to Singapore, represent our college with pride, and compete alongside some of the best young basketball talent in the region,” Leonard said.
