Why Townsville Tip Off's impact reaches beyond the court

Two of the WNBL’s all-time greats believe the impact of the Townsville Tip Off will extend far beyond the court, shaping the future of women’s basketball in the host city.

WNBL Chief Strategy and Basketball Operations Officer Lauren Jackson joined Townsville Deputy Mayor and six-time WNBL champion Suzy Batkovic on Tuesday to officially announce the tournament’s return.

Now in its second year, the North Queensland showcase offers fans a unique opportunity to see all nine WNBL clubs compete in one tropical destination ahead of the new season.

While the Tip Off provides a crucial platform for teams preparing for WNBL27, it also provides inspiration for the next generation of players, strengthening community connections and reinforcing Queensland’s growing reputation as a destination for major sporting events.

“I think this is more than just basketball,” Batkovic said.

“This is about the economic benefit that it brings to Townsville and these amazing female athletes that kids can aspire to be. If they see it, they can be it.”

As part of Queensland’s preparations ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, the State Government is backing the Tip Off as an important contributor to the state’s vision of becoming a national sporting hub.

Having experienced the passion of Townsville crowds throughout her playing career, Jackson said the opportunity to bring the game’s biggest names directly to Queensland’s communities cannot be underestimated.

“The most important part of this is there are so many kids up here that actually love women’s basketball,” Jackson said.

“There’s so many girls that want to get involved and stay involved. To be able to have that sort of representation here in North Queensland, and then get into the communities and spread the word, the visibility is just so important.

“It’s a very exciting time for women’s basketball and to have it here - there’s really no better place.”

Tickets are now available for the event from September 17-20. For everything you need to know, click here.