Buckets = Bank: Play for a share of $50k

Does your team have what it takes? Well, now is the time to put your skills to the test with a brand-new open-age basketball tournament set to take place in Perth as part of HoopsFest in 2026. The HoopsFest Cup will pit the best amateur teams against each another in a competitive event giving basketball lovers a chance not just to attend, but to actually play as part of Australia’s biggest basketball festival.

Running from January 14-18, the Cup will transform Perth’s Warwick Stadium into a hive of basketball activity, with pool matches, finals, and a total prize pool of $50,000 up for grabs, split across the Men’s & Women’s competitions. The winners of each division will cash in $20,000 with $5,000 going to the runners-up. Open to players 18 and over, teams can be formed by anyone with no club or other affiliation required. So whether you’re playing social ball, competing at a domestic level or a former star itching for one more run, this is for you.

All games consist of 8-minute quarters and are fully timed and officiated, with a minimum of four games per team. Entry fees have been structured to support participation across the country, with Western Australian teams $500 and interstate teams $300. Fees cover up to 12 players. Importantly, players currently on an NBL or WNBL roster are ineligible.

Registrations open on Sunday 28 July via the HoopsFest website. Individuals can express interest, after which selected teams will be invited to submit their full nomination. Visit hoopsfest.com.au now for more information, including FAQs, game rules, and updates on nominations. Registrations are limited, and spots will go fast. Don’t just watch the action at HoopsFest Perth, be part of it.

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