Game On! Announcing the 2025 AU Waatu Squads

Forty-three students took part in two basketball trials in April, all aiming for a place on the University of Adelaide’s AU Waatu men’s and women’s teams competing in the 2025 New Balance University Basketball League (UBL). The strong turnout has made for a competitive selection process, with coaches now finalising the squads.

Adelaide University Sport & Fitness CEO, Michelle Wilson, praised the athletes' dedication:

“The intensity, teamwork, and passion on display at trials was great to see. It’s always tough to narrow it down to just 16 spots per team, but every player should walk away knowing they made an impact.”

 Scott Freer, head coach of AU Waatu said:

“This year’s group brings a fresh energy. We’ve got players with serious basketball IQ and some with experience from NBL1 Central, but also new faces who are hungry to grow. The mix of leadership and talent is exactly what we look for. Final squad decisions will be made shortly and will we then start preparing for round one.”

These student-athletes are preparing to represent the University of Adelaide in the 2025 season of the New Balance University Basketball League Australia (UBL) - a national, semi-professional league backed by UniSport Australia. Now in its fifth season, the UBL features 12 universities across Australia in both the men’s and women’s competitions, with an eight-week regular season and a thrilling two-week finals series.

Waatu, meaning “coming together for a common goal” in Kaurna language, reflects the spirit of unity and ambition that defines our teams. The University of Adelaide proudly acknowledges that its campuses are on Kaurna land, and the Waatu teams play in the spirit of Success, Enjoyment, and Pride.

As the only South Australian university competing in the UBL, we invite the entire University of Adelaide community to get behind the Waatu. Home games will be FREE to attend and held at the State Basketball Centre – so check the schedule, mark your calendars and bring the energy!

Round 1 sees us host a double header on 5 and 6 August – so come along and cheer LOUD! Let’s pack the stands and show the rest of the league what the University of Adelaide pride is all about!
 
The 2025 season runs from August to October. Be part of the movement, join the Waatu Crew, and show your University pride!

2025 AU WAATU SQUADS:

*Please note that the men’s squad will be reduced to 16 in the coming weeks.