Featuring as our number one highlight from 2023, Ben Waller, at only 17 years old has already proven his abilities and is showcasing what looks like a bright future for him. Currently playing for Casey, Waller started his basketball journey at only 10 years old in a local domestic league. Recently, we had the opportunity to sit down and have a chat with Waller about his career thus far.
“My first memory of basketball that sparked interest was being gifted a Stephen Curry poster then watching him play and realising how far I could go with the game. My favourite thing about Curry is that he can shoot so well, and I thought that if I could practice enough and shoot that well, it would bring me enjoyment”.
"I thought that if I could practice enough and shoot that well, it would bring me enjoyment”.
If you have seen Waller play, you would know that he has a great shot on him. Waller participated in the Under 14’s Gold Nugget camp and that was the time when he realised that he could be bigger and greater than what he initially thought. Waller began his Big V journey with Gippsland United Men’s in 2022 before moving to Casey. To credit his achievements to date, Waller states that having good connections and a strong network around him was the most valuable asset to him.
“I know people locally that trained me, such as Zac Tripp who has pushed me to make sure I am continually developing. Nathan Cooper-Brown played a huge part in my development to make sure I get the most out of everything.”
The Youth League Championship season tipped off in March and what looks like a promising season for Casey does not go without giving Waller credit for his performances thus far on court. Casey, currently sitting 4W-0L, are appearing to be a strong contender for the championship this year already. Waller commends that Casey are progressing well, alongside of a great team chemistry with a great group of guys.
“My youth league coach, Darren Best, shows faith in me while ensuring my continued personal and on-court development, something which I value highly."
Round 1 Casey (113) def Wyndham (79)
Waller: 26 points, 5 steals, 5 assists, 76% FG
Round 3 Casey (86) def Dandenong (85)
Waller: 12 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists
Round 4 Casey (85) def Ringwood (74)
Waller: 39 points, 5 rebounds, 2 steals, 4-6 3PT
Playing alongside of VYCM, Waller also plays in NBL1 South, which tipped off earlier this month. With a tough start to the season for Casey, there is no doubt they have some great talent to help them achieve their first victory of the season.
“People don’t expect me to come out and make such an impact because of my age but I want to have a good season and impress people”
When asked about his goals, Waller did not hesitate to exclaim his excitement for his future ahead.
“I obviously have personal goals and accolades I want to achieve along the way, but the biggest goal of mine is to have a long career in NBL close to home, but I would also love to play in Europe and get to travel and experience the world”.
Waller has shown great athleticism and is a vaulable addition to Casey, and moreover our Big V Family. At only 17, Waller has the number of achievements under his belt:
- Gippsland United Junior of the Year 2022
- 2023 U17 Australian Representative
- 2023 U18 Captain of Victorian Country Silver Medallist Team
- 2023 Australian Junior Country Cup Gold Medal
- 2023 Junior Cavalier Award
- 3 Years Representative Victoria Country
- 2024 Victoria Navy Vice Captain
“You have to trust the process, keep putting in the work – there are so many ups and downs. Keep doing the little things and everything will work out”
