The Koorie Academy Basketball held its first clinic of the year on Friday, partnering with Ngwala Aboriginal Corporation to deliver a day of basketball skills, cultural pride, and community connection.

Held at the State Basketball Centre, the clinic brought together young players, families and coaches for a memorable start to 2025.

The event began with a smoking ceremony and cultural activities led by Yorta Yorta and Boonwurrung man, Chris Hume, setting the tone for the day.

"Chris helped kickstart the day with a powerful smoking ceremony that cleansed our spirits and set us up for a deadly day," Koorie Academy Basketball Uncle Ricky Baldwin said.

"The kids, families, and coaches really enjoyed immersing themselves in culture."

Uncle Ricky, a Gunai Kurnai man, said the day was about more than just basketball.

"We had a deadly day of skills and drills," he said.

"But the real highlight was seeing our young Aboriginal coaches step up to run their first cultural workshops.

"Watching them share culture with passion and pride was something special."

Throughout the clinic, four young Aboriginal coaches led sessions, combining basketball training with cultural education.

"I was really proud of all four of them," Uncle Ricky said.

"They did an outstanding job giving back to their community."

Uncle Ricky acknowledged the support of Greg Walker and Jessica Jones from Ngwala Aboriginal Corporation, who played a key role in making the event a success.

Ngwala also provided a coffee van on the day, serving free coffee and iced coffee to participants and families.

The clinic emphasised healthy living, with kids enjoying a nutritious lunch, fresh fruit, and water.

Uncle Ricky hopes this partnership with Ngwala will continue.

"It was great to partner with Ngwala," he said.

"Hopefully, we can run more clinics together."

The event reinforced the Koorie Academy's commitment to blending sport and culture, giving young participants a chance to grow both on and off the court.