Gippsland United is proud to announce a three-year extension of our Naming Rights partnership with Gippsland Physiotherapy Group, reaffirming one of the club’s most important and longstanding relationships.
A Gippsland-owned and locally managed organisation, Gippsland Physiotherapy Group has been a cornerstone supporter since Gippsland United’s inception. Their commitment to our region, its athletes, pathways, and community programs has played a significant role in elevating the standard of basketball development across the region.
As the partnership continues to grow, so does our shared vision: strengthening community sport, supporting athlete welfare, and creating high-quality opportunities for players throughout Gippsland.
Basketball Operations Manager Simon Whelan expressed the club’s gratitude and excitement, saying:
“We are incredibly proud to continue our partnership with Gippsland Physiotherapy Group. Prue and Paul have grown a remarkable organisation—one that began right here in Gippsland and has expanded successfully across the country. Their commitment to Gippsland, community sport, and Gippsland United has been unwavering, and we truly would not be where we are today without their support.”
The three-year extension ensures Gippsland Physiotherapy Group will remain the Naming Rights Partner across all Gippsland United programs, reinforcing a shared dedication to community development, athlete wellbeing, and long-term growth.
With deep local roots and a national footprint, Gippsland Physiotherapy Group continues to strengthen the foundation of Gippsland United—helping build pathways that aspire, perform, and inspire.
With almost 30 years of experience in the industry, Gippsland Physiotherapy is focused on providing the quality of care that you simply cannot find anywhere else. To book an appointment with one of their incredible staff, head to https://www.gippslandphysiotherapy.com.au/
The 6’8 forward from Atlanta, Georgia, brings size, athleticism and a strong inside presence to United’s frontcourt. Bryce arrives in Gippsland following an impressive season with the Shepparton Gators in the Big V Championship Division, where he averaged:
His ability to dominate the glass, finish around the rim and impact both ends of the floor makes him a major addition to the GU Champ Men’s roster.
Speaking on his signing, Bryce shared his excitement about joining the program:
“Can’t wait for what’s coming this season. After talking to Coach I feel good about this year man. I’m ready to come in and join the guys and just build some bonds and win some ball games together at the same time.”
United emphasised the importance of adding physicality and leadership this season, and Bryce ticks every box. Fans can expect a high-energy, hard-working forward who plays with intensity and pride.
With preseason preparations underway and momentum building across the region, Bryce’s arrival sparks even more excitement for what’s ahead.
Welcome to Gippsland, Bryce — we’re ready for a big year.
Gippsland United is thrilled to announce the return of a fan favourite — Jalin “Swaggy Jai” Wimberly!
After an incredible 2025 season that saw him claim Season MVP, Grand Final MVP, GU Co-MVP, and lead the team to a Division 1 Championship, Jai is back and ready to take on the Big V State Championship Division.
Reflecting on his return, Jai shared,
“I’m very excited to come back to GU and continue to build on what we’ve accomplished so far! Definitely can’t wait to hit the floor with my guys again in champ!”
A dynamic leader on and off the court, Jalin’s energy, skill, and connection with the Gippsland community have made him one of the most beloved players in United history.
Welcome back, Swaggy Jai — Gippsland is ready for more magic!
Gippsland United has done it! Our men’s team are Big V Division 1 Champions after defeating Warrandyte 99-90 in a thrilling Grand Final at the Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium, Traralgon — in front of a near sell-out home crowd.
After last year’s heartbreaking loss in the decider, United came back hungrier than ever, producing a complete team performance to secure promotion to the Big V Championship Division — Victoria’s top-tier basketball competition outside of NBL1 — for the first time since 2009.
Grand Final MVP Jalin Wimberly led the charge with 18 points, 8 assists, 7 rebounds, and 3 steals, backed by Joel Winderlich’s 21 points, Kody Tibballs’ 15 points off the bench, and six players scoring in double figures.
Coach Scott McKenzie praised the team’s resilience and growth, highlighting that eight players from United’s 2022 Division 2 title are still part of the squad — making this victory the result of years of hard work and belief.
For the first time in 17 years, Gippsland United will return to the Championship Division next season, cementing our place among the state’s elite.
Gippsland United have wrapped up a remarkable 2025 Big V regular season, with both the Division 1 Men and Division 2 Women earning their place in the finals — and doing so in style.
The Division 1 Men finished the season as minor premiers, topping the ladder after months of consistent, high-level performances. Underpinned by a strong team-first mentality, the squad has blended athleticism, composure, and depth to emerge as the team to beat heading into the September finals.
Leading the charge has been import star Jalin Wimberly, whose explosive scoring and playmaking ability have made him one of the most electrifying players in the league. Whether breaking down defences or setting up teammates, Wimberly has been at the heart of Gippsland’s offensive success. Alongside him, club stalwart Ben Barlow has delivered week in, week out with his trademark leadership, hustle, and clutch shooting. The veteran guard’s impact on both ends of the floor has been a key factor in the team’s rise to the top.
Meanwhile, Gippsland United’s Division 2 Women have continued to turn heads, finishing third on the ladder in what has been a breakout year for the squad. A blend of youth and experience has powered the team to a finals berth and positioned them as a genuine dark horse heading into September.
Key to their success has been Ellie Coutts, whose scoring ability and presence inside the paint have been unmatched. Coutts has been a reliable force around the rim all season, often setting the tone on both ends of the court. Young gun Alahna Arnason has also been a revelation in 2025, showing maturity beyond her years. With her composure, defensive tenacity, and ability to step up in big moments, Arnason has quickly become a player to watch across the competition.
As both squads prepare for finals basketball, the energy around Gippsland United continues to grow. With strong community support behind them, a deep belief within the playing group, and standout talent leading the way, United are set for an exciting September run — and possibly, a historic one.
Finals fever has officially hit Gippsland.
Gippsland United, proudly supported by Gippsland Physiotherapy Group, is excited to announce the inclusion of the Geelong United Annual Tournament in our VJBL calendar starting in 2025.
This strategic addition follows consultation with key stakeholders as we continue to look for ways to strengthen and enhance our VJBL program. One of the ongoing challenges post-tryouts has been bringing teams together consistently ahead of the season — largely due to the existing country tournament schedule.
The timing of the Geelong Tournament fits perfectly within the VJBL preseason window and is already a popular choice for many associations across the state. It provides an ideal opportunity to get valuable game time in before grading begins—something that has been a gap in our preparation in recent years.
From 2025 onwards, participation in the Geelong Tournament will be compulsory for all Gippsland United VJBL athletes, coaches, and families. It’s a chance for coaches to experiment with lineups and build team chemistry, for players to connect with their new teammates, and for families to come together and build a strong support network heading into the season.
This is an exciting next step for the Gippsland United program—one that reflects our ongoing commitment to growth, development, and building something truly special for the Gippsland basketball community.
MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Gippsland United Unveils Strategic Plan to Drive Growth Across Regional Basketball
Gippsland, Victoria – 04/06/2025
Gippsland United is proud to announce the release of its new Strategic Plan, setting a bold and collaborative vision for the future of basketball across the region.
At the heart of this initiative is a clear and ambitious objective: to use the Gippsland United platform to help local basketball associations grow and thrive. The Strategic Plan outlines key priorities and initiatives designed to strengthen grassroots participation, support talent development, and enhance the overall basketball experience across Gippsland.
“This Plan is more than a document—it’s a commitment to our basketball community,” said Basketball Operations Manager Simon Whelan “We recognise the unique strengths of our local associations, and our goal is to empower them through shared resources, increased visibility, and a united pathway forward.”
Importantly, the Strategic Plan is intended to be a fluid and responsive framework, designed to evolve as the landscape of basketball changes and as key milestones are achieved. Gippsland United is committed to reviewing and adapting the Plan regularly to ensure it remains relevant and impactful.
Gippsland United invites all stakeholders—players, coaches, volunteers, associations, and supporters—to engage with the Strategic Plan and join in shaping the future of basketball across the region. To read the Strategic Plan and learn more about Gippsland United’s vision, visit https://gippslandunited.com.au/gippsland-united-strategic-plan-2025-2028/
Our Women are back with an exciting season ahead.
2025 sees us take on Wallan (2023 Grand Final Match Up), RMIT, Southern Pen, Coburg, Blackburn, Surfcoast and Keysborough.
We kick the action off with a Double Header on March 22 in an exhilarating start to the season.
Keep an eye out for team announcements as we head into the season!
Big V has just dropped the Division 1 Men’s fixture and what a year it will be.
Round 1 kicks off on March 22nd with a Preliminary Final rematch against Whittlesea being held at GRISS.
We then take on Western Port in a second home game before hitting the road.
Check the full fixture below and watch for the final squad announcements over the next few weeks.
Gippsland United are on the hunt for a new Director of Coaching and Development!
This role is vital to the development of coaching within the Gippsland region and a strong basketball mind is needed.
Below is a brief outline of the requirements for the role.
Applications can be made by sending your Cover Letter and Basketball resume to operations@gippslandunited.com.au.
Should a suitable candidate be identified the role may be filled and applications closed early.
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