NBL Statement: Victoria Police targets online racial abuse

The National Basketball League (NBL) commends Victoria Police and Basketball Australia’s (BA) Integrity Unit for their swift and decisive action in securing the first successful arrest in Australian basketball on charges of racially abusing an athlete via social media.

This significant development follows an incident in November 2024, when BA’s Integrity Unit was alerted to a direct message targeting an active NBL player. On Wednesday, 2 July, police arrested and charged a 37-year-old Huntingdale man in connection with the abusive message.

This landmark moment reinforces the unwavering commitment by governing basketball authorities to protecting athletes and fostering a safe and respectful environment for everyone involved in the sport.

"The NBL stands united with Basketball Australia in taking a firm stance against any form of online abuse or vilification," Lauren Blecher, NBL Chief Corporate and Governance Officer.

"The action by Victoria Police sends a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated. We are incredibly proud of the collaborative efforts that led to this outcome."

This positive step highlights the strengthened measures available to both Basketball Australia and the NBL, alongside legal authorities, to safeguard and protect athletes in all areas of public and online forums.

The charged individual has been bailed to appear at Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court on 15 August.

The NBL encourages people to report intimidating, harassing, or racially abusive behaviour online by contacting your local police station or, in an emergency, calling Triple Zero (000).