This April, Moreton Bay will again host the Foot Locker Under-18 & Junior Wheelchair National Championships, bringing together teams from across the country for one of the most established fixtures on the national tournament calendar.
The Under-18 Championships trace back to the early years of organised national competition in Australia, with the first Under-18 men’s title dating back to 1954, a reminder of how long this event has sat at the centre of the pathway. Over time, it has remained a consistent step for players progressing through the system, linking junior programs with state and national representation.
Australian stars such as Josh Giddey, Alanna Smith, Xavier Cooks, Ezi Magbegor, Matthew Dellavedova, Dante Exum and Ben Simmons have all progressed through the system, alongside athletes including Rebecca Cole, Darcee Garbin, Jack White, Tessa Lavey, Steph Talbot, Ally Wilson — with young talent Rocco Zikarsky now with the Minnesota Timberwolves in the NBA and Sitaya Fagan at University of Southern California leading the next wave.
Since its introduction as the Kevin Coombs Cup in 2008, the National Junior Wheelchair Championships has grown into a central part of the week. What began as a combined event has now evolved into a dedicated national championship for junior wheelchair athletes, proudly continuing the legacy of Kevin Coombs, a pioneer of the sport and five-time Paralympian.
With the Gold Coast also playing host to the Foot Locker Australian School Championships at the end of the year, hosting the event in Queensland has become a natural fit. Brisbane’s experience in delivering national tournaments, combined with its accessibility and outdoor lifestyle, provides a consistent setting across the week, both on and off the court.
The Championships will be played across City of Moreton Bay, continuing the area’s growing role in hosting national sporting events.
City of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery said the City is proud to showcase the next generation of Australian basketball talent.
"These championships are a milestone in the national pathway, and it’s inspiring to see young athletes and junior wheelchair athletes take the court here in City of Moreton Bay with such determination and passion," Mayor Flannery said.
Head to BA Competitions to view fixtures, ticketing.
The U18 & Junior Wheelchair National Championships is supported by the City of Moreton Bay and the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.
Stay and play in Moreton Bay, where sun-kissed beaches, hinterland escapes and outdoor adventure come together.
From Redcliffe to Bribie Island and beyond, it’s the perfect place to explore, unwind and reconnect with nature.
