Patty Mills And Indigenous Basketball Australia Hires Olympian As COO

Patty Mills and Indigenous Basketball Australia (IBA), have hired Olympian Melody Cooper as chief operating officer and added an Under-17s age group as they prepare for their upcoming third season.

The grassroots basketball program was launched by Australian basketball player Patty Mills in 2021 to provide a pathway of participation and success for the next generation of Aboriginal youths and Torres Strait Islander youths throughout Australia.

After an overwhelming response to its ’21 and ’22 events, the IBA has extended the age group to the schedule mid next year. As well as the original 14’s and under age group, the organisation will also welcome interest from young athletes in the under-17’s category.

As a result, the first-of-its-kind program will double in size across the 100% Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander players in the coming year.

The IBA has also hired Melody Cooper OLY as its new chief operating officer to drive the growth and strategic direction of the organisation.

The influential cultural leader, Māori & Cook Island Māori woman and London Olympian has always honoured the powerful fusion of sport and culture in her role as Head of Multicultural & Community at the Australian Basketball Players Association and in her work developing Leadership programs and community initiatives that empower young Indigenous peoples.

“Indigenous Basketball Australia is a phenomenal creation by Patty Mills that I am fortunate to be a part of. I feel there is real synergy with my new role, not only from a professional standpoint but also from my personal perspective as a proud Māori woman who aims to instil in my own children the importance of understanding your lineage and the celebration of cultural practices.” says Cooper.

“To wake every day knowing we are making a significant difference in society to support our Aboriginal youths & Torres Strait Islander youths who want to represent Australia is a responsibility that I am extremely excited about.” Cooper continues.

“I have had the privilege to represent my country as an international player and it has shaped my ambition for how I would like to pass on my experience and use it to help our young athletes. The IBA provides a safe place where our youth can find a sense of purpose and belonging so that they too can unlock their own potential to live life to the fullest, wherever it may take them.”

“Although we still have work to do to achieve our goals, I remain inspired and motivated for an exciting year ahead.” Patty Mills said.

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