Royals Basketball, based in New South Wales, has made history as the first organisation in Australia to be formally recognised as an Affiliate Global Partner of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), the national governing body for basketball in the Philippines.
The partnership creates a direct link between Australia’s growing Filipino basketball community and the Philippines’ well-established basketball ecosystem. Through this affiliation, Royals Basketball will be able to host SBP initiatives, talent showcase tournaments, coaching exchanges, development programs, and athlete pathways designed to support Filipino-heritage players seeking exposure to Philippine basketball.
A key example of this pathway is the success of Managing Director Marinette’s daughter, Jolzyne Impreso, who is currently part of the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s National Team.
Marinette described the milestone as “a proud moment not just for our club, but for the entire Filipino-Australian basketball community.” She said the partnership reflects Royals Basketball’s mission to expand its presence across multiple regions and to help athletes with Filipino lineage connect with their heritage while competing at a high level.
“This affiliation is about building legacy and inspiring tomorrow, one that connects Australia and the Philippines to give athletes visibility, opportunity, and a deeper connection to where their love for basketball comes from. We want our athletes to know that their identity is an asset and that there’s now a pathway for them to pursue their dreams through this partnership.”
As the first SBP-affiliated organisation in the country, Royals Basketball now has the official network and recognition to establish pathways that link local players to the wider Philippine basketball community. The affiliation allows the club to host and participate in SBP-aligned programs, including training camps and tournaments that provide young athletes with opportunities to experience international basketball environments.
Marinette said Royals Basketball is ready to support families, coaches, and players interested in participating in SBP-aligned programs. She encouraged athletes and basketball clubs to reach out, express their interest, and prepare any required documentation for future eligibility and representation opportunities. “This is the start of collaborating together for the same passion for basketball by connecting communities, culture, and creating opportunities that transcend borders.”
Through this milestone, Royals Basketball and the SBP hope to expand opportunities for Filipino-Australian athletes while strengthening the cultural and sporting connection between Australia and the Philippines.
