11th November 2026
Author: Maree DeGeorge
Melbourne, VICTORIA – Five Victorian Ivor Burge athletes are World Cup champions following a brilliant campaign with the Australian Pearls and Boomerangs at the VIBF 3x3 World Cup in Bangkok, Thailand.
With both Australia Green teams claiming gold, alongside a bronze medal for Pearls Gold, there was plenty for Victoria’s basketball community to celebrate.
Jessica McCulloch and Alicia Bamblett helped Pearls Green secure the women’s world title with a 14–9 victory over Japan, while Dylan Cheyne, Jack Innella and Jake De La Motte celebrated gold with Boomerangs Green after defeating Portugal 21–9 in the men’s final.
The medal success continued for Evie Patterson and Jamie-Lee Getson, whose Pearls Gold team defeated Poland to claim bronze.
Meanwhile, Frazer Dawber, Pat Getson and TJ Leifi finished their campaign with a win over the USA, securing seventh place with Boomerangs Gold.
For the Victorian athletes, representing Australia was a proud opportunity to take their game to the international stage, alongside teammates from across the country. Coming home with World Cup medals made an already special experience even more memorable.
Basketball Victoria General Manager Pathways Dom Linossier congratulated the athletes and the people who supported their campaigns.
“To see our Victorian Ivor Burge athletes representing Australia and celebrating World Cup success is something our whole basketball community can be proud of,” Linossier said.
“These opportunities mean so much to the players and their families. Behind every selection is a lot of hard work, commitment and support, and it’s wonderful to see that rewarded on the world stage.
“Congratulations to all our athletes, coaches and support staff. We hope you’ve enjoyed every moment of wearing the green and gold and sharing this experience together.”
Victoria was also well represented off the court. Victorian Ivor Burge Head Coach Adrian Carfora served as an assistant coach with the Boomerangs, joined by Daniel Fabien, who carried his Victorian Ivor Burge men’s team manager experience into the same role with Australia.
The Boomerangs were supported by current Ivor Burge Men’s physiotherapist Dr Gaylene McKay, and the Pearls by long-time Ivor Burge Women’s physiotherapist Kara Nolan. Fellow Victorian Jo Larkin supported the Pearls as an assistant coach.
Their contributions helped the athletes prepare, compete and make the most of their time in Bangkok.
From everyone at Basketball Victoria, congratulations to our World Cup champions, bronze medallists and all Victorian representatives. What a proud moment for you, your families and the basketball communities cheering you on.
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