GEBC Cup Returns: Spectres Set to Defend Their Crown Against Hawks

MELBOURNE, April 8, 2025 – One of Melbourne's most spirited rivalries reignites this Wednesday night as the Nunawading Spectres and Ringwood Hawks tip off the opening leg of the GEBC Cup at Norwood Secondary College. With local pride and bragging rights on the line, the reigning Cup Champions from Nunawading are ready to defend the title they proudly secured in the Cup’s inaugural year.

Launched in 2024 as an extension of the Greater Eastern Basketball Conference (GEBC) partnership between the Melbourne East Basketball Association (Nunawading) and Ringwood Basketball Association, the GEBC Cup celebrates more than just elite-level basketball – it represents a shared commitment to community, collaboration, and the development of grassroots sport. The Cup is contested across four regular season clashes between the Spectres and Hawks, with the trophy awarded to the club that claims the most wins. If the ledger is split, overall percentage decides the victor.

In last year’s series, it was the Spectres who rose to the occasion, securing the upper hand in tightly contested battles. This time around, the Hawks return with a sharpened edge and a clear mission.

“This Cup goes beyond wins and losses,” said Paul Flynn, Nunawading Basketball Operations Manager and Spectres NBL! South Women's Head Coach. “It’s about showcasing the unity that exists off the court through the GEBC, while fueling a healthy and exciting rivalry on it. The GEBC Cup is fast becoming a key fixture on the calendar for both clubs and our communities.”

That sense of community runs deep. While the Spectres and Hawks compete independently at the representative level, they come together every Saturday under the GEBC umbrella, delivering basketball opportunities for over 5,000 junior athletes across domestic competition. Many of today’s NBL1 athletes – and even national-level players – first picked up a basketball through programs within this league.

The opening clash of the 2025 GEBC Cup tips off Wednesday night at Norwood Secondary College, marking the first of four highly anticipated battles between the two powerhouse clubs. With both women’s and men’s teams lacing up, fans can expect a high-octane evening of NBL1-level competition.

Whether you're a diehard fan, a young player dreaming of taking the next step, or a proud parent cheering from the sidelines, the GEBC Cup delivers more than just basketball – it brings the whole community together under the lights.

GEBC Cup 2025 – Game 1
? Norwood Secondary College
? Wednesday, April 9
? Women’s Tip-Off: 6:00pm
? Men’s Tip-Off: 8:00pm
?? Entry at the door