Adelaide 36ers and BHP expand partnership to deliver regional community programs

The Adelaide 36ers are proud to announce an extension of their partnership with BHP, which will see the club continue to deliver impactful community programs across key regional centres in South Australia’s north and far north.

Building on the success of previous visits to Roxby Downs and Coober Pedy, the expanded initiative will see the Adelaide 36ers Shooting Hoops Foundation deliver tailored programs in Coober Pedy, Roxby Downs, Whyalla and Port Augusta.

The program is designed to create lasting and measurable social value by strengthening community wellbeing and inclusion, which is closely aligned with BHP’s social investment priorities.

Through a series of basketball clinics, educational sessions and structured engagement activities, the club aims to connect with approximately 5,000 young people and community members across the four regions.

Each visit will include Adelaide 36ers players and staff members, ensuring authentic engagement and meaningful connections with local communities. Programs will be tailored to meet the specific needs of each region, drawing from the suite of initiatives delivered by the Adelaide 36ers Shooting Hoops Foundation, with a focus on improved physical health, social connection and leadership development outcomes.

Merchandise and giveaways will also be provided to enhance community participation and engagement.

As part of the project the Adelaide 36ers will also look to engage current BHP partners, the Clontarf Foundation and the Shooting Stars Foundation both regionally and in Adelaide, for an Adelaide 36ers game during the NBL 26/27 season.

BHP has partnered with the Adelaide 36ers since 2024, focussing on regional engagement through Roxby Downs and Coober Pedy.

Together they have engaged more than 500 community members, including through the implementation of a wellbeing and leadership program in schools, school clinics and community basketball events for families, led by the Adelaide 36ers High Performance Schools Manager, Corey McLean and supported by players and staff.

It has boosted community connection, encouraged physical activity and improved wellbeing while giving people in those regional centres the opportunity to engage with and learn from elite players and coaches from the 36ers. 

Adelaide 36ers Chief of External Relations & Community Strategy, Ross Wait, said the partnership extension represents a significant opportunity to deepen the club’s impact in regional South Australia.

“This partnership with BHP allows us to meaningfully connect with regional communities across the north and far north, using basketball as a vehicle to inspire, educate and bring people together,” Mr Wait said.

“We’ve seen firsthand the positive impact these visits can have, and we’re excited to build on that momentum, creating more opportunities for young people to develop confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging.”

BHP Copper SA Community Manager Demitra Ritossa said the expanded partnership reflects BHP’s ongoing commitment to regional communities.

“It’s fantastic to see school kids getting the chance to mix it up with the Adelaide 36ers,” Ms Ritossa said.

“Through sport, we’re creating positive experiences and stronger connections for young people and families across regional South Australia.”

Ms Ritossa said expanding the program to Whyalla and Port Augusta builds on the success of previous visits to Roxby Downs and Coober Pedy, allowing more young people to connect with positive role models.

The expanded program reinforces a shared commitment between the Adelaide 36ers and BHP to invest in regional communities and deliver initiatives that leave a lasting legacy.

The first visit will be to Coober Pedy this week.