IBA All-Stars defeat Māori squads in electric basketball showcase

Joseph Guenzler Published June 13, 2025 at 12.00pm (AWST)

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(Image: supplied)

Indigenous Basketball Australia has come away with two statement wins in a special double-header clash against Poitūkohu Māori o Aotearoa on Wednesday, with both the men's and women's All Star teams dominating in front of a strong crowd at Melbourne's State Basketball Centre.

The event marked the first time Indigenous Basketball Australia (IBA) has fielded both men's and women's All Star teams in the same international showcase, following the success of last year's inaugural men's exhibition.

It was a night to celebrate high-level basketball and cultural pride, featuring elite athletes with strong NBL, WNBL and NBL1 credentials.

In the men's match, IBA secured a 104-90 win over Poitūkohu Māori, powered by a standout performance from Sydney Comets guard Biwali Bayles.

*Biwali Bayles spots up. (Image: supplied)*

Bayles posted 20 points, 10 assists, and nine rebounds, securing a near triple-double while also adding two blocks and two steals.

His court control and playmaking set the tone early, earning praise as one of the night's top performers.

The game also marked the final appearance of veteran big man Nathan Jawai, who closes out a decorated career which spanned the NBA, EuroLeague and NBL.

Jawai dropped nine points, six rebounds and three assists, ending his career with a win and a final made shot.

*Nate Jawai takes it to the hoop. (Image: supplied)*

IBA's depth proved critical, with key contributions from the whole squad.

Amarco Doyle added 16 points on 64 per cent shooting, Tamuri Wigness put up 16 points and six rebounds, and Anthony Mundine III hit four-of-six from long range for 12 points.

Johny Narkle chipped in with 10 points, four rebounds and four assists, showing the strength of IBA's next generation.

For Poitūkohu Māori, Nathaniel Salmon impressed with 19 points and nine rebounds, including four three-pointers, while Tobias Cameron recorded 15 points, 10 rebounds and six assists.

*Poitūkohu Māori women perform Haka pre-game. (Image: Supplied)*

In the women's game earlier in the evening, IBA secured a 93-61 victory off the back of a dominant all-around display.

WNBL guard Shaneice Swain led the way with 26 points, seven rebounds, two assists and two steals, connecting on six three-pointers and sparking several scoring runs.

Monique Bobongie followed with a 16-point, 11-rebound double-double, showcasing the form she's carried throughout the NBL1 North season with the Mackay Meteorettes.

Nes'eya Parker-Williams contributed 12 points, six rebounds and four steals, while Leichan Williams added 11 points and seven boards.

*Shaneice Swain pulls up for three. (Image: Supplied)*

IBA's defensive pressure forced 19 turnovers and held Poitūkohu Māori to just 30 per cent shooting from the field and 16 per cent from three-point range.

Both games served as a celebration of culture and connection through sport, with IBA players representing communities from across the country and stepping up on the national stage.

The double-header was made possible with support from VicHealth and event partners, helping spotlight Indigenous excellence on and off the court.