THANKS to P&N Bank 100 Perth Wildcats tickets were donated to young local Indigenous basketballers to watch their heroes in action at the BBL’s 2023 Indigenous round game last weekend Saturday, November 4.

Indigenous Perth Wildcats player Keanu Pinder presented the young players from the Koordoormitj Institute Grassroots Basketball program in Midland with their tickets at a special event last weekend.

With 70 per cent of the children in the Midland program identifying as Indigenous, 30 per cent being from a range of diverse cultures and nationalities, and with most coming from disadvantaged backgrounds, it’s incredible to see the impact Koordoormitj’s grassroots basketball program has in supporting and connecting the local community.

The basketball program is run by Cheryl Kickett-Tucker, the first Aboriginal player for the WAIS Rockets, now known as Perth Lynx, who said on behalf of the Koordoormitj program and Koya Aboriginal Corporation, that they really appreciated the generous gesture to provide tickets to some of their budding players.

“Going to a basketball game is not something our kids have the chance to do often, and we hope seeing the Wildcats in action will inspire our players to see what may be possible,” she said.

“Our basketball program aims to provide our community with a welcoming family environment and social connection by coming together to play a game these kids love.”

P&N Bank’s general manager Angela Newland said the bank believed in supporting those needing a step-up, bigger voice or helping hand to achieve their goals.

“As advocates for reconciliation, we are extremely proud to support the Wildcats during the NBL’s Indigenous round game. It ’s great to see P&N’s logo featuring on the Indigenous round Wildcats uniform, which has been designed by Yilka (Wongutha)/Noongar/Yamatji local artist Rosie Paine,” Ms Newland said.

The NBL Indigenous round is a highlight each season, showcasing Indigenous art and culture from around the country.