Phoenix to fly with National Finals

The Sunshine Coast Phoenix are set to fly this season, with a strong goal of reaching the NBL1 North Finals, to then represent their club at the Mitsubishi Motors NBL1 National Finals in front of their home crowd.

Sunshine Coast Phoenix General Manager, Sean Page spoke on behalf of the organisation at the launch of the National Finals announcement descending on the Sunshine Coast. 

“To think that in 2024 we’d be hosting the NBL1 National Finals is an amazing thing for Sunshine Coast sport and for our region generally,” Page said. 

“We’re excited to be involved and do what we can to make this event extremely successful.”

Page is now looking ahead to work towards the NBL1 North championships. 

“Wouldn’t you love to play a home National tournament…We’ve got one goal and that’s to win,” he said. 

Jamaal Robateau, Phoenix guard had expressed the significance of bringing the National Finals to the Sunshine state, in particular stating the benefits for the juniors of the club. 

“It’s an awesome opportunity for not only us but for our juniors and the pathway it creates,” Robateau said. 

“They’ll get to see the top calibre players come here to play, hoping it’s us.”

Haylee Andrews from the women’s side echoed Robateau’s comments, mentioning the community who may not be across the game, could also reap the benefits. 

“It’s a good way to get the local community involved who don’t know much about basketball and the NBL1 competition level,” Andrews said. 

The 24-year-old also has the aim of appearing at the National Finals. 

“Playing here and throughout the season, growing that fanbase and that local community getting involved. Hopefully, if we are there, it carries onto the NBL1 championships,” she said. 

Round 2 for the Phoenix commences on Saturday, with the women’s first facing the Northside Wizards at 5:30pm AEST, followed by the men’s at 7:30pm AEST Live and Free via Kayo Freebies. 

For further information on the official destination of the National Finals, head to www.visitsunshinecoast.com