Patty Mills sends apologies and thanks

Indigenous Basketball Australia (IBA) founders and directors Patty and Alyssa Mills delivered a special message to players, coaches, coordinators, officials and volunteers before the awards and medals were handed out at the National Indigenous Basketball Tournament last weekend.

Firstly they apologised for not attending the National Indigenous Basketball Tournament due to the NBA playoff between Brooklyn Nets and Philadelphia 76ers.

They thanked everyone for working hard and making the tournament better, and for their dedication into the program, making special mention of Junior NBA coaches Carlos Barossa and Natalia Andre and IBA ambassadors Nate Jawai and Abby Cubillo.

“IBA is to create an elite environment for our athletes, just for you, to own your story and keep the culture alive,” Patty said.

Patty’s parents, IBA directors Benny and Yvonne Mills, presented the medals for the winners, runners up and third place.

Junior NBA Coaches Barossa and Andre had the difficult decision of selecting one boy and one girl to attend a camp/clinic later this year in what promised to be an overseas trip of a lifetime.

Coaches Carlos and Natalia said the two players selected were Ava Rioli (WA) and Nate Langmaid (VIC).

Coach Carlos said it was a “most difficult decision” to choose the two players.

In closing the NIBT for 2023, Benny Mills acknowledged everyone for their passion and commitment.

He also gave a big shout out to Patty and Alyssa.

“Brisbane Olympics in 2032 is the goal and keen to see athletes wearing the green and gold,” he said.

IBA has another program –the 17s ICBL – to start in the next few months.