- HoopsFest returns to Perth with action-packed schedule
- Perth exclusively hosting full round of National Basketball League and Women's National Basketball League
- Thousands of fans to attend games at RAC Arena
- Attracting year-round events are part of the Cook Government's economic diversification strategy to generate valuable tourism dollars for local business and support local jobs
It is game time for Perth as HoopsFest, Australia's biggest basketball festival, returns for four action-packed days of exclusive matches.
From 15-18 January, Perth will shine in the national spotlight when RAC Arena exclusively hosts Round 17 of the National Basketball League (NBL) season and Round 14 of the Women's National Basketball League (WNBL) season.
Supported by the Cook Government through Tourism WA, HoopsFest Perth is expected to attract thousands of out-of-state visitors, providing a significant boost to the tourism and hospitality industry, with last year's inaugural event generating more than $6.1 million in economic impact for the State.
NBA All-Star and Hall of Famer, Allen "The Answer" Iverson will feature at HoopsFest Perth, bringing global stardom and recognition to the prestigious basketball festival.
The event will also feature the HoopsFest Cup, a new addition for 2026 which will bring together more than 30 community teams from around Australia for a national tournament, competing for $50,000 in prize money.
The excitement extends beyond the court, with basketball fans set to enjoy the return of Sneakerland - Australia's largest sneaker culture festival - alongside Bounce Nation, the HoopsFest Fan Zone that celebrates basketball culture through music, entertainment, and activations at Perth's Forrest Place.
Located in the heart of the city, Bounce Nation will be buzzing with free, family-friendly fun, including interactive games, competitions, and appearances by some of Australia's biggest basketball stars.
A pop-up half court will host shoot-arounds, skill sessions and 3x3 Hustle events, and a Special Olympics showcase. Fans can meet NBL and WNBL players at signing sessions and community activities while DJs, food trucks, giveaways, merchandise, and sponsor activations create an inclusive and exciting festival hub for locals and visitors alike during Perth's summer holidays.
HoopsFest Perth 2026 adds to the State's vibrant summer of events, which kicked off with United Cup 2026 and Westbridge Funds Road National Championships, and continues with the Oracle Perth Sail Grand Prix presented by KPMG, HSBC Rugby SVNS Perth, the 2026 AAMI AFL Origin, and the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026.
Hosting HoopsFest Perth forms part of the Cook Government's economic diversification strategy by building a stronger tourism and events sector, supporting local tourism and hospitality businesses, and creating jobs for Western Australians.
HoopsFest Perth tickets and further information are available at hoopsfest.com.au.
As stated by Acting Tourism Minister Dr Tony Buti:
"We're thrilled to be hosting HoopsFest for a second year in Perth, offering another fantastic chance to position Western Australia as a premier destination for events and deliver a significant boost to the State's tourism and hospitality sectors through our economic diversification strategy.
"HoopsFest Perth promises to be an unforgettable celebration of the game with NBA legend Allen Iverson in attendance and multiple exhibitions and pop-up events for all fans.
"It's also fantastic timing for this event, with HoopsFest Perth coming back during the January school holidays period, which is the perfect time for visitors and families to come to Perth and enjoy all the action both on and off the court."
As stated by Acting Sport and Recreation Minister John Carey:
"Events like HoopsFest Perth attract thousands of fans and help activate and add vibrancy to our city.
"Perth is the perfect place for HoopsFest to return as we have a strong and passionate basketball fanbase in our State, so I encourage all fans, families, and kids to fill the stands for an exciting four days of action."
