Six talented local basketballers are set to take their game international, as Jackson Walker, Ashton Morris, Nick Watson, Riley Casanova, Aaron Hamill, and Macey Watson prepare for an exciting trip to the United States with Showtime Basketball Tours.
North East Bushrangers representative Kristy Morris said the club is thrilled to support the youngsters on this incredible journey.
“It’s such an exciting opportunity for these kids to experience basketball on a whole new level and create memories that will last a lifetime,” she said.
The boys are feeling a mix of excitement and nerves ahead of the trip.
“We’re really motivated and looking forward to the games, but also the travel, culture, and the experiences we’ll share together,” said one of the players.
Latest Stories
The opportunity comes from the North East Bushrangers’ long standing partnership with Showtime Basketball Tours, which provides international trips for under 18 boys and girls every two years.
North East Bushranger Boys will be heading over on the 6 December and back on the 21.
The tours allow young athletes to showcase their skills on a bigger stage and gain exposure to international competition.
Parents are equally excited, reflecting on the dedication required to reach this point.
“Playing for regional clubs like Euroa, Shepparton, and the North East Bushrangers involves long trips on Friday nights, training sessions, domestic games, and representative tournaments," Morris said.
"Being part of regional clubs has been a major factor in the players’ development, and smaller clubs offer a close knit community with personalised support, strong mentorship, and genuine friendships.
"This helps build not just skills, but also confidence and resilience.”
The players’ journey to the international stage is an inspiring message to other young athletes in small towns like Euroa and Nagambie.
“It shows that with hard work, dedication, and self belief, anything is possible, no matter where you come from,” Morris said.
“Traveling together as families will also be an incredible experience.”
Melinda Watson, mother of Nic and Macey Watson, shared her excitement for the family’s basketball journey.
“They are really excited about the opportunity," Ms Watson said.
"They have worked hard over a number of years, done a lot of travel, extra trainings, trials, and this is a great reward for all their efforts,” she said.
The opportunity came through the Bushrangers’ longstanding partnership with Showtime Basketball Tours.
“Nick went to the US the first time with Showtime and the NE Bushrangers, just like Aaron, Riley, Jackson, and Ashton are doing this year.
"Macey is going with Shepparton Gators through her participation in their program,” Melinda said.
The players are looking forward to more than just basketball.
“They’re excited to check out US colleges, watch NBA and NRL games, maybe see ice hockey, Disneyland, and all the sights the US has to offer.
"They’ll play against high school teams, attend sessions with high school coaches, and experience homestays with US families.
"They’re also looking forward to LA, Santa Monica, Hollywood, shopping, the food, culture, and even the cold, maybe snow.”
Looking ahead, the experience promises to offer more than just basketball lessons.
On the court, players will refine teamwork, resilience, and compete at an elite level.
Off the court, they will gain independence, forge deeper friendships, and develop a greater appreciation for new cultures and experiences across Texas and Los Angeles.
For the North East Bushrangers and their families, the upcoming trip is a celebration of talent, dedication, and the bright future of local basketball.
