The National Basketball League (NBL) have partnered with Australia’s newest elite basketball training facility, Hoop City, in a bid to develop the future stars of the game.

The Hoop City U Development Program was created by Australian under 17 national coach and Melbourne United assistant coach, Justin Schueller, to create pathways for the NBL and NBL1 competitions, with the state-of-the-art facility to be based in Melbourne.

Speaking on the announcement, NBL commissioner, Jeremy Loeliger, said the initiative will help players reach their full potential.

“We’re proud to be partnering with Hoop City to strengthen the pathways for young players,” Loeliger said.

“Hoop City is a world-class training facility that will help aspiring ballers to be their very best,” he said.

Australian Boomer and United player, Chris Goulding, said it is a massive step in the right direction for the game.

“In the past it’s been a struggle to even find a court to practice, let along get access to elite coaching,” Goulding said.

“Hoop City has shooting and dribbling bays, skills clinics, camps, as well as individual and group coaching sessions.

“Whatever level of basketballer you are, training at Hoop City will help you raise your game,” he said.

Academy members will have access to networks and pathways including the NBL and NBL1, United States (US) specialty programs and the US college system.