Adelaide 36ers Launch Pioneering Chinese Basketball Academy

The Adelaide 36ers have revealed an international initiative with the launch of the Adelaide 36ers Chinese Basketball Academy.

This industry-leading program is designed to attract talented student-athletes from China by integrating elite-level basketball development with high-quality Australian secondary education.

The initiative, delivered in partnership with the South Australian Department for Education and Woodville High School, represents a significant move to strengthen South Australia’s standing as a global destination for both sport and international education.

Commenting on the initiative, Adelaide 36ers chief of external relations & community strategy, Ross Wait, said: “The Adelaide 36ers Chinese Basketball Academy provides a truly unique opportunity for students to enhance their English language skills, achieve academic success, and experience Australian lifestyle and culture – all within a professional basketball environment.”

Adding that the collaboration aligns with the school’s mission to foster a future-focused learning ecosystem, Woodville High School principal,  Anna Mirasgentis, added: “This collaboration not only delivers outstanding academic and sporting opportunities but also connects our school community with diverse cultures and global perspectives.”

Academic and Athletic Integration

The Academy is scheduled to welcome its inaugural cohort of Year 10 students for a semester-long program commencing in Term 1, 2027. The curriculum is designed to offer a balanced environment where participants can pursue academic excellence alongside professional-grade basketball training.

As an Adelaide 36ers High Performance partner school, Woodville High School will provide the primary training and educational hub for participants. The program features:

• Specialist basketball coaching and strength and conditioning programmes.
• Immersive match-day experiences and mentoring opportunities with 36ers staff.
• Tailored English language development and academic support.
• Comprehensive pastoral care through the International Education Services’ homestay programme.

The programme will be capped at 20 students to ensure a personalised approach to development, with a strong focus on cultural integration and student wellbeing.

Strengthening International Connections

The initiative aims to facilitate engagement across multiple sectors, including tourism, local industry, and community organisations, while positioning South Australia as a premier location for international student-athletes.

Registrations of interest are currently open, with the Academy expecting high demand for the inaugural intake. Link found here.

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