Albury set to host WNBL pre-season showcase

The pre-season fixture will be played at 7:30pm on Friday 2 October 2026, giving basketball fans from across the Albury Wodonga region the opportunity to see some of Australia's best female athletes in action, ahead of the 2026/27 WNBL season. 

Delivered in partnership with Southside Flyers, the event will include a range of community activities designed to inspire the next generation of athletes and promote women's sport across the region. 

In addition to the match, Southside Flyers players and staff will connect with local junior athletes, coaches and the broader basketball community through clinics, appearances and other activations during their visit. 

Albury Mayor Kevin Mack said the event was a significant opportunity for the region to host elite women's basketball and celebrate the area's strong connection to the sport. 

"We are delighted to welcome the Southside Melbourne Flyers and UC Capitals to Albury and provide our community with the opportunity to experience WNBL basketball here at the Lauren Jackson Sports Centre," Mayor Mack said. 

"The game, together with the planned community activities, will inspire young athletes, engage local basketball participants and further strengthen Albury's reputation as a destination for major sporting events." 

Southside Melbourne Flyers' owner Gerry Ryan said the region was a natural fit for the club's commitment to growing women's basketball and connecting with fans in one of Australia's strongest basketball communities. 

"The Albury-Wodonga region has such a strong basketball culture and a proud history of producing and supporting talented players, making it a fantastic location to showcase the WNBL and the Southside Melbourne Flyers,” Mr Ryan said. 

"We know how important it is to connect with regional communities and provide opportunities for young athletes to engage with elite women's sport, meet players and experience what is possible through sport. 

"We are looking forward to spending time in the region and putting on a great show for local fans." 

Albury's connection to basketball is synonymous with Australian basketball legend Lauren Jackson, and the showcase will provide local supporters with a rare opportunity to see WNBL talent compete at the venue that bears her name. 

The event is expected to attract basketball fans from across North-East Victoria and southern New South Wales, further strengthening Albury's reputation as a destination for elite sporting events.

Tickets are now available through INTIX, with further information about community activities and event details to be announced in the coming weeks.

Photo: Southside Melbourne Flyers’ Haylee Andrews