Bendigo is about to become the centre of Australian basketball this spring, with the city confirmed as the host of the 2026 NBL Blitz.
Running from 2 to 6 September at Bendigo Stadium, the annual pre-season showcase will bring together all 10 NBL teams from Australia and New Zealand for five huge days of competition, fan events and community activations.
Basketball fans can expect 10 games across the week, along with clinics and school visits that will give young players the chance to meet some of the league’s biggest stars up close.
The event adds another milestone to Bendigo’s growing reputation as a basketball destination. Earlier this year, packed crowds turned out to watch Melbourne United and local favourite Dash Daniels during two blockbuster games in the region, with another pair of matches already locked in for 2027.
The timing also aligns with continued upgrades to Bendigo Stadium, including the addition of two new indoor courts and newly completed lighting for the outdoor netball courts, helping strengthen the venue as a major regional sporting hub.
Premier and Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan said the event would be a major win for the city and the wider region.
“I know how important basketball is to my hometown, and bringing the NBL Blitz to Bendigo is a huge win for the region,” Allan said.
“Not only will this inspire young basketballers, it will bring more visitors to Bendigo’s hotels, restaurants and cafes, boosting our visitor economy.”
The NBL Blitz is supported through the Victorian Government’s Regional Events Fund.
For more information and ticketing details, visit NBL Australia.
