HoopsFest Perth Breaks Attendance Records and Elevates the Sport to New Heights
Imagine witnessing a crowd so enthusiastic and large that it sets new standards for Australian basketball festivals. That’s precisely what happened at the second edition of HoopsFest in Perth—an event that not only drew record-breaking numbers but also showcased the growing passion for basketball across the nation. A stunning 25% increase in attendance compared to last year underscores how this festival is gaining momentum and capturing the hearts of sports fans.
Over the four action-packed days, the event reached an incredible milestone with more than 35,500 spectators filling the RAC Arena — including a massive sell-out during the thrilling Friday night WNBL and NBL double-header. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Australian basketball, emphasizing its expanding popularity and community appeal.
David Stevenson, CEO of the NBL Group, highlighted the event's success by emphasizing that HoopsFest is about more than just basketball games — it’s a celebration that unites players, fans, and communities. “What we saw at RAC Arena, in local venues, and throughout Perth truly reflected the spirit of basketball,” Stevenson explained. “Our record-breaking attendance, up 25% from last year, is a testament to the event’s growth and the incredible effort of everyone involved.”
Furthermore, he expressed gratitude toward key partners such as the Western Australian Government, Tourism WA, the City of Perth, RAC Arena, and the players and staff of NBL and WNBL — all of whom contributed to making HoopsFest a standout in the sporting calendar. A special shoutout was also given to the thousands of fans, some traveling from outside Western Australia, whose enthusiasm and support made the festival unforgettable.
Adding to the event’s prestige was the appearance of NBA Hall of Famer Allen Iverson, who attended as a global ambassador for basketball. During his stay, Iverson immersed himself in Western Australia’s lifestyle, including a visit to Rottnest Island, which helped showcase the region’s unique appeal as a vibrant tourism destination. His presence not only elevated HoopsFest’s international profile but also demonstrated the global reach and influence of basketball culture today.
To bolster the sport’s grassroots development, the festival hosted community events such as SneakerLand and the HoopsFest Cup at Warwick Stadium. This tournament drew 220 men’s and women’s players from across Australia competing for a share of $50,000. Such activities reinforce the festival’s commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering participation among all age groups.
The city’s heart was also alive with excitement through the Bounce Nation Fan Zone at Forrest Place, which transformed downtown Perth into a lively basketball hub. Fans enjoyed activities like meet-and-greets with NBL and WNBL players, dance battles, entertainment for all ages, and experiences spotlighting basketball’s culture at every level — including collaborations with Special Olympics basketball programs.
This impressive event would not have been possible without the support of Western Australia’s government and Tourism WA, reaffirming the region’s reputation as a premier host for major sporting events and a destination capable of creating impactful national experiences.
But here’s where it gets controversial — as basketball continues to grow and draw larger crowds, questions about balancing commercial interests with community passion often arise. Does this rapid expansion risk overshadowing grassroots participation? Or is it an essential step towards making basketball a staple in Australian sports culture?
What are your thoughts? Do you believe events like HoopsFest truly foster sustainable growth and inclusivity, or do they risk becoming exclusive spectacles? Share your opinions below and join the conversation.
