NBL and clubs create special Throwdown experience for Challenge families

The Hungry Jack’s National Basketball League (NBL) has welcomed children and families from Challenge – Supporting Kids With Cancer as special guests at Thursday night's Melbourne United vs South East Melbourne Phoenix Throwdown, delivering a memorable on-court experience at John Cain Arena.

The invitation follows a recent basketball-related appearance elsewhere that did not provide the experience the children had hoped for, with the NBL and its clubs keen to ensure Challenge families were given the opportunity to enjoy a special and positive night around the game.

Ahead of tip-off, Challenge children were invited onto the court where they met players from both Melbourne United and the South East Melbourne Phoenix, taking photos, and sharing a unique pre-game moment with their basketball heroes.

Challenge is a not-for-profit organisation that supports children and families living with cancer 365 days a year, providing free and immediate practical, social and emotional support, including hospital programs, camps, family assistance services and bereavement support.

NBL Group CEO David Stevenson, said the league was proud to help create a special night for the Challenge families.

“Challenge does extraordinary work supporting children and families through one of life’s toughest journeys, and we’re honoured to welcome them to the Throwdown tonight,” Stevenson said.

“Moments like this show the power of basketball to bring people together and create lasting memories, and we thank Melbourne United and their players for helping make this experience so special.”

Nick Truelson, Melbourne United CEO added, “We know the sort of impact an experience like this can have on a young person’s life, and we're proud to be a part of this initiative. Challenge does amazing work within the community and to be able to assist them in any way is fantastic.”

David Rogers, CEO of Challenge – Supporting Kids with Cancer said, “We are incredibly grateful to the NBL and Melbourne United for opening their doors to our children and families and providing them with this opportunity. After a recent experience that fell well short of what our kids deserved, it is truly heartening to see the fraternity of basketball come together and give something back in such a genuine and generous way. Tonight will create memories our families will cherish for a long time.”