The Warriors NAIDOC basketball tournament in Canberra brought together over 200 teams, showcasing a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity and community spirit.

The event, held across multiple venues including Belconnen and Tuggeranong basketball stadiums, attracted participants from as far as Gilgandra and other parts of New South Wales.Organisers highlighted the tournament's role in fostering inclusivity, with age groups ranging from under 10s to under 19s.Peter Harris, a Winnunga Warriors official, emphasized the importance of such events in reconnecting young people with their cultural heritage.

He shared his personal journey of finding belonging through sports, noting how team activities like basketball provide empowerment and self-determination.

The tournament also featured cultural touchpoints, including performances by Ngunnawal woman Selina Walker and Wiradjuri Echoes, underscoring the blend of sport and tradition.

Harris praised the event's ability to unite diverse communities around a shared passion for basketball, creating an atmosphere unique to Canberra.The tournament exemplifies how sports can serve as a bridge for cultural reconnection and social cohesion.