All systems go for AUS v NZL Trans-Tasman Throwdown

We’re on the eve of the Trans-Tasman Throwdown eve with the re-imagined rivalry series between Australia & New Zealand set to launch across Adelaide, Sunshine Coast in Australia & Hamilton in New Zealand.

All nine games of the Trans-Tasman Throwdown will be broadcasted live and free on the 9Network and available live and streaming service 9Now. Sky Sports in New Zealand.

Head to the TTT25 Game Hub for everything AUS v NZL.

EIGHT TO DEBUT

The kids are alright. Eight debutants will feature in the series, four apiece for the Seven Consulting Opals & four for the Boomers.

It will be the first senior appearance for Abbey Ellis, Miela Sowah, Alex Fowler & Courtney Woods. All have had their own unique journey on the path to the Green & Gold jersey. Ellis was a college star for the Purdue Boilermakers and made waves as WNBL Breakout Player of the Year in 2025.

Miela Sowah (nee Goodchild) has been chopping it up for the Gangurrus 3x3 winning gold at the FIBA 2025 3x3 Asia Cup. Courtney Woods becomes an Opal built from an incredible run of form. 2024’s WNBL Rookie of the Year, Alex Fowler joins Townsville teammate Woods for the series.

OPALS – TEAM

For the Boomers, Keli Leaupepe, Owen Foxwell, Austin Rapp & Harry Wessels get their debut. Sydney King Leaupepe featured in an Australia Select side tour of Japan last year but makes it official with TTT25. SEM rising star Foxwell continues his career momentum and Wisconsin commit Austin Rapp joins St Mary’s 7-footer Harry Wessels with a unique trip back home. 

BOOMERS – TEAM

VICKERMAN, GORISS AT THE HELM

Dean Vickerman & Paul Goriss will absorb head coach responsibilities as Sandy Brondello & Adam Caporn coordinate & analyse from afar.

Vickerman spoke to his integration into the role and how Caporn remains central to the process.

“He (Caporn) called every person when the players were selected so yeah, you will see his fingerprints over everything. He’s already watched the practices from yesterday and has some thoughts on what we did and how we were moving. He’s going to be on top of everything on encouraging and assisting,” said Vickerman.

“It’s an absolute privilege for Capes to want me in this position, managing things in Australia that he might not be able to get to because of NBA.”

Caporn added some notes from the USA where his Washington Wizards team are preparing for the NBA Draft in July.

“I want to congratulate all the players and staff selected to represent Australia in the upcoming TTT Series. The rivalry between the Boomers and the Tall Blacks is built on a proud tradition, and this group is eager to add to that legacy,” said Caporn..

“This series marks another important step in building and strengthening the Boomers culture. The coaching staff, led by Dean Vickerman, has done an outstanding job preparing the team to play the right way—together, connected, and committed.”

“Fans can expect to see the hallmarks of Boomer basketball: physical, disruptive defense and a team-first style that proudly represents Australia on the international stage.”

Sandy Brondello will no doubt be keeping an eye on the Opals over the week as she enters pre-season with reigning champs the New York Liberty.

Goriss has been energetic in the new position and his team of Shannon Seebohm and Kristi Harrower have the group meshing in a short preparation window.

SCHEDULE

ABOUT | Trans-Tasman Throwdown

In February 2025, Basketball Australia and Basketball New Zealand announced the AUS v NZL Trans-Tasman Throwdown, a new era of rivalry. This series is being delivered alongside event partner TEG Sport and official host cities with the South Australian Tourism Commission, Sunshine Coast City Council and Hamilton City Council – Te kaunihera o Kirikiriroa.