Basketball leaders, athletes and advocates gathered in Melbourne this week as She Hoops hosted a special International Women’s Day event celebrating the impact women continue to have across every level of the game.
Held at Hicken’s Hotel on Thursday and supported by presenting partner Jayco alongside WNBL, Tissot and Sephora, the event brought the basketball community together for an afternoon of conversation, connection and shared experiences while highlighting the progress of women’s basketball and the opportunities ahead.
The program featured two panel discussions with influential voices from across the sport.
The Moment We’re In
Hosted by Megan Hustwaite, the opening conversation brought together Michele Timms OAM OLY and Steph Reid to reflect on the momentum building across women’s basketball.
Beginning with a recap of the WNBL Finals series, the discussion highlighted the league’s growth, the increasing professionalism shaping the game and the elevated standard of competition.
Looking ahead to a World Cup year, attention turned to the Australian Opals — currently ranked second in the world — and their sustained success as a global powerhouse. The panel reflected on the expectations that come with representing Australia and the reality that while earning an Opals jersey has always been one of the highest standards in world basketball, each generation raises the bar further.
Power, Influence & Opportunity
The second panel, featuring Rana Hussain and Lauren Jackson AO OLY, moved the conversation beyond performance and into the structures that shape sport.
Together, they examined who holds power in basketball and why it matters that women and diverse leaders are not only visible within the system, but influencing it.
Both reflected on the barriers women have historically had to navigate and the doors that have been forced open over time. They also spoke about responsibility ensuring that progress does not rely on individuals alone, but becomes embedded within the culture and governance of the game.
The Stories Behind the Jerseys
Nya Lok and Leanne Del Toso PLY closed the afternoon by grounding the discussion in lived experience.
Sharing key turning points in their journeys, they reflected on the moments that shaped their belief, resilience and connection to the game. From access to opportunity, to the impact of role models and community support, their stories illustrated how pathways are experienced in real terms.
Their conversation ultimately centred belonging, who feels welcomed, who sees themselves represented and who believes there is a place for them within the sport. Expanding pathways, strengthening visibility and investing in support structures are not just participation strategies; they are how we ensure more women and girls feel they genuinely belong in basketball.
“Events like this are incredibly important because they bring the basketball community together to celebrate women and the role they play in our game,” Jackson said.
“We’ve seen incredible progress over the years, but it’s important we keep pushing forward so the next generation of girls coming through the sport know there are opportunities for them on and off the court.”
Australian Opals captain Tess Madgen said the conversations highlighted the power of shared experiences in driving change.
“It’s inspiring to hear from women who have helped shape the game and those who are continuing to lead it forward,” Madgen said.
“Basketball has such a strong community, and events like this remind us how important it is to support one another and create environments where women can thrive.”
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