A substantial Australian contingent is gearing up for the upcoming FIBA Masters Open 2026, aiming to leave their mark on the inaugural tournament. This diverse group, representing various age categories and experience levels, will travel from Down Under to compete in Greece.

With a total of 13 teams—five women's squads across the 40+, 45+, 50+, 60+, and 65+ divisions, and eight men's teams in the 45+, 50+, 50+ 3x3, 55+, 60+ Green, 60+ Gold, 65+, and 70+ categories—this delegation represents a significant presence at the historic event.

Global Journey, United Purpose

The journey to Greece for most players is an independent endeavor, often combined with personal holidays and family trips. Despite the considerable distance and commitment involved, all participants are expected to arrive with a shared determination to maximize their experience.

For many, this tournament presents a unique opportunity to represent Australia in the coveted green and gold, a chance they may not have had during their prime national team aspirations. This international competition holds particular significance for long-time basketball aficionados who have dedicated years to the sport.

Notable Talents Set to Shine

The Australian lineup includes several individuals with impressive basketball pedigrees, poised to make a notable impact on the FIBA Masters Open. These players bring a wealth of experience and individual flair to the competition.

Andrew 'Parky' Parkinson, a standout for the 50+ men's team, boasts a decade of National Basketball League (NBL) experience as a prolific shooter. His contributions were instrumental in two championship victories with the Southeast Melbourne Magic, earning him an NBL All Star selection and the Most Improved Player award in 1991. Parkinson's enduring passion for the game is evident as he continues to play despite a personal battle with cancer since 2019. His individual achievements in masters' basketball include a 50-point NBL game and an astonishing 107-point performance in a masters' event, showcasing his continued dedication at 59 years old.

From LA Courts to Australian Courts

William 'Butch' Hays will compete in the 60+ men's division, bringing a distinguished career that began in South Central Los Angeles. After excelling in high school and at the University of California Berkeley, Hays was drafted by the Chicago Bulls and later found his way to the Adelaide 36ers in Australia.

During his tenure in the NBL, Hays introduced the league to the concept of a 'big point guard'. After accumulating 232 games and multiple seasons with the Maitland Mustangs, he remains an active player. Beyond the court, Hays leverages his sociology degree and MBA as the CEO of SNAP Programs, an organization dedicated to providing a range of services to individuals and entities within the disability sector.

Opals Legacy and Hall of Fame Inductees

Gail 'Hendo' Henderson is set to represent the 65+ women's team. Her senior basketball career commenced as a teenager in 1976, and she was already part of the Australian National Team program when she co-founded the Brisbane Lady Bullets in 1982.

Henderson went on to play 18 games for the Opals and enjoyed 17 seasons in the Women’s National League (WNBL) with the Brisbane Lady Bullets and Sydney Flames, securing two championships with Sydney in 1993 and 1997. Recognized for her contributions, she is a WNBL Life Member and a inductee into the Basketball Queensland Hall of Fame. Still active in Sydney, 'Hendo' remains involved with the Manly Basketball Association and the Butterflies Masters basketball team.

Mike Ellis will participate in the 65+ men's competition. Ellis is a member of the Basketball Western Australia and Perth Wildcats Hall of Fame. Notably, he captained the Perth Wildcats throughout their initial 11 years in the NBL, leading them to two championships in 1990 and 1991.

A dedicated basketball enthusiast, Ellis transitioned into coaching post-playing career, working with the Perth Wildcats and subsequently the Stirling Senators for many years. His masters' playing career continues his deep involvement with the sport.