The Whakatāne War Memorial Hall has been filled with the sounds of sneakers squeaking and balls bouncing as tamariki and rangatahi took part in three free basketball clinics delivered by EBOP Basketball in partnership with the Tauranga City Basketball Association last month.

Supported by Sport Bay of Plenty’s Tū Manawa Active Aotearoa fund and Whakatāne District Council’s Community Matching Fund, the free clinics removed cost barriers for Eastern Bay rangatahi and gave kids another chance to step onto the court, have a go, build skills and – most importantly – back themselves.  

From first-timers to representative level players, there was something for everyone and many Ōpōtiki players made the trip over to Whakatāne to take part.

“I wasn’t sure about basketball, but this was really fun. I’m better at this than I thought, and looking forward to playing more next year,” said Rosa, 12, who attended two of the three clinics.

The first clinic in early December focused on fundamentals for players aged 10-16, as well as basic refereeing skills. Drills covered passing, shooting and defence in a relaxed and encouraging atmosphere, with TCBA coaches Chelseah and Alex constantly offering feedback and support.

“I was really nervous at the start,” said one of the kids who new to basketball. “But once I got my first basket, I felt way more confident.”  

The emphasis on encouragement helped less experienced players feel comfortable, with looking after each other being just as important as points on the scoreboard.

The second clinic on December 21 catered to high school-aged kids who were keen to sharpen their skills.

Working with local coach and kaiako Matua Te Ahuroa Cossey, players worked on ball handling, defensive skills and reading the game, gaining insight into how basketball works at a higher level.

“Matua Ahu give me a tip that has changed my game completely,” said 13-year-old Albie. 

“His whole clinic was all great, but that one small thing has already made me a better player.” 

The following day there was a kōtiro-focused “Give It a Go” clinic, which created a welcoming space for girls and gender-diverse young people.  

The focus was on fun, inclusion and confidence with no pressure, just participation. 

Whānau on the sidelines cheered as they watched players grew more confident with every drill. 

This clinic was well attended by new players including many from Ōpōtiki. 

“Most of our kids are playing netball but don’t get much chance to give basketball a go,” said one of the mums.

“Thank you – this was such a great event” said another by email after the event. “We can’t wait for more.”

Across the three clinics, organisers saw more than just improved shooting and footwork. Kids were building confidence, teamwork and whanaunga-

tanga, values that extend well beyond the court.

“It’s amazing seeing kids arrive shy and leave buzzing,” said a parent. “That confidence stays with them.” 

EBOP Basketball expressed strong appreciation for TCBA’s commitment in sending experienced coaches to Whakatāne, and general support. TCBA coach Cairyn Rogers shared with the girls she had just returned from a tour of Texas in the USA and talked about pathways into representative basketball and a career in the sport. 

“We love coming here,” said one of the TCBA coaches afterwards. “The kids in Whakatāne are really good kids.”

With strong turnout and nothing but positive feedback, EBOP Basketball has plans to expand community programmes, upgrade facilities, grow opportunities and strengthen development pathways in 2026.

“Last year was about understanding the level of interest,” said Alice Cameron, an EBOP volunteer. “This year is about building to help more of our East Coast rangatahi who want to achieve their basketball dreams.”

3x3 basketball

Tomorrow, 3x3 basketball is coming to Ōpōtiki’s Memorial Park.

Supported by BNZ Kiwi Hoops and Tauranga City Basketball, the event is open to all ages and abilities and designed to create a positive, social, and high-energy basketball experience for the Ōpōtiki community.

Players can register as an individual and be placed into a team or enter a team and compete alongside friends.  

This is an officially sanctioned FIBA 3x3 event, with eligible games contributing toward FIBA 3x3 player ranking points.

The event runs from 9.30am to 3.30pm. To register, visit the Tauranga City Basketball Facebook page.