Written by Maddy Ryan, credit to Lachlan Everett
From the courts of NBL1 to becoming a pivotal player for the Illawarra Hawks, Will “Davo” Hickey’s basketball journey is a story of determination, community support and cultural pride. Central to Hickey’s success has been the influence of Ricky Baldwin, affectionately known as “Uncle Ricky,” whose work through the Koorie Academy has created pathways for countless Indigenous athletes.
Ricky Baldwin, founder of the Koorie Academy, shifted his focus from mainstream coaching to establishing opportunities for Indigenous athletes across Victoria. Recognising the barriers many Aboriginal players face, Baldwin has become an advocate and mentor, amplifying their voices in spaces where they’ve historically been underrepresented.
“I started Koorie Academy Basketball with my networks and have been able to be a strong advocate for Aboriginal athletes,” Baldwin explains. “Pushing their names with NBL and NBL1 teams to give them opportunities they rightly deserve.”
This mission was crucial in Hickey’s development. Baldwin first encountered Hickey as a teenager representing the Australian National Indigenous Team. Growing up in Redfern, Sydney, Hickey showed potential but needed the guidance and opportunities Baldwin could provide.
Baldwin’s connection with Victorian basketball legend Nigel Purchase helped secure Hickey his first professional contract with the Melbourne Tigers during the inaugural NBL1 season in 2019. From there, Hickey’s career flourished, representing NBL1 South clubs such as Ballarat, Casey, and Albury-Wodonga. His standout performances earned him Defensive Player of the Year and a spot on the NBL1 All-Star Five.
“Ricky was the one who got me through the door,” Hickey reflects. “He gave me a place to stay, connected me with teams, and supported me when I needed it most.”
Hickey’s rapid growth in NBL1 South paved the way for development player stints with South-East Melbourne Phoenix and Melbourne United. Now, he’s a core part of the Illawarra Hawks, recently signing a three-year extension and earning selection for the Boomers squad in the upcoming 2025 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers.
Baldwin’s Koorie Academy isn’t just about nurturing athletic talent, it’s a program that emphasises cultural education, life skills, and community connection. The academy runs camps, clinics, and cultural events across Victoria, especially focusing on regional areas.
“In Victoria, there was a real lack of opportunities for Aboriginal kids,” Baldwin shares. “I stepped away from mainstream basketball to focus on inclusion, giving these kids a chance to grow as people and players.”
Basketball Victoria remains committed to fostering an environment where all players—regardless of background—can thrive and shine. If you or someone you know wants to get involved, contact your local association.
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Original story at https://nbl1.com.au/article/an-icon-of-the-community-uncle-ricky-baldwin
