The Melbourne United Basketball Academy (MUBA) provides a clear development pathway for athletes striving to reach their full potential - from Under-12s through to Under-18s. Led by United’s expert coaching staff, MUBA athletes will train in the same systems that have delivered championships to Melbourne and helped shape players into elite NBA and NBL talent.
Athletes will develop their fundamentals in a safe, high-energy and competitive environment. Sessions focus on key areas including ball handling, passing, layup finishing, shooting technique, individual offence and defence, and decision-making. Players will also be introduced to small-sided games that reflect the concepts used by our NBL team.The Academy is made up of the Development Program, the Performance Program, and the newly introduced Elite Program - offering the ideal mix of support and structure for athletes looking to elevate their game.
The newly introduced Elite Program is designed for athletes on the cusp of elite-level basketball. Positioned just one step below a Development Player role with an NBL team, this program provides specialised preparation with an increased focus on strength and conditioning, pro-level concepts, and nutrition. It’s the final stage in preparing athletes for the demands of professional basketball.
Athletes will have the opportunity to showcase their progress during Academy Play Days - team-based sessions packed with gameplay and competition. Academy participants also enjoy exclusive club benefits, including game day experiences, discounted tickets, and access to inner-sanctum events.
Under 12 to top age 18
14 - 18 years
(Bottom age 14 to top age 18)
Invitation Only
16 - 18 years
(Bottom age 16 to top age 18)
A Talent ID Camp is the first step to joining the Melbourne United Basketball Academy (MUBA). It provides the perfect opportunity for coaches to assess young athletes and identify where they best fit within the Academy structure - whether that’s the Development Program, Performance Program, or the Elite Program.
After being taken through Melbourne United’s offensive and defensive concepts, coaches will look for athletes who are coachable, attentive, and display a strong desire to improve. These sessions allow us to filter athletes into the most appropriate program to help them level up their game and reach their full potential.
If you have missed the latest Talent ID session, please contact us at academy@melbourneutd.com.au to arrange a tryout during the term.
What happens following a Talent ID Session?
Monday 22nd September
Under 12s to Under 18s
Time: 9am – 12pm
Location: Albert Park
Thursday 25th September
Under 12s to Under 18s
Time: 1pm – 4pm
Location: Vermont South
Monday 29th September
Under 12s to Under 18s
Time: 9am – 12pm
Location: Parkville
Tuesday 30th September
Under 12s to Under 18s
Time: 9am – 12pm
Location: Berwick
The Development Program is the first tier of the Melbourne United Basketball Academy. This program is designed for boys and girls from bottom-age Under-12s through to Under-20s. It lays the foundation for athletes looking to develop their skills and understanding of the game while preparing to progress into the Performance Program.
The program builds individual skills in age-based groups, focusing on the fundamentals of playing the United way — selfless, hard-working and detail-driven. Athletes will develop in key areas such as ball handling, passing, shooting technique, footwork, decision-making, and Melbourne United’s core offensive and defensive concepts.
Delivered through a structured, term-by-term approach, the program blends skill work with style-of-play elements. By year’s end, athletes will have a strong foundation and a clear understanding of early team systems — ready to progress into the next stage of their basketball journey.
Each term, athletes will receive:
*Additional fees apply
1-hour sessions for 8, 9 or 10 weeks
$45 per session
To join the program, register for a Talent ID Camp
The Performance Program is designed for athletes who have been identified through MUBA Talent ID Camps or elevated from the Development Program. This program is tailored for those ready to take their training to the next level, closely mirroring Melbourne United’s NBL systems and standards.
Athletes will train using Melbourne United’s offensive and defensive terminology, structure, and style of play — developing the ability to not just play the United way, but to understand why the system works. Sessions blend individual skill work with tactical development, including small-sided games, decision-making under pressure, and full-court application of key concepts such as Punch screens, Pin aways, and split actions.
Delivered over four structured terms, the program introduces and reinforces advanced basketball principles, floor spacing, game tempo, and the Melbourne United values. Athletes will see a direct link between what they learn at training and what Melbourne United runs on court.
Each term, athletes will receive:
*Additional fees apply
1-hour sessions for 8, 9 or 10 weeks
$60 per session
To join the program, register for a Talent ID Camp
The Elite Program is the pinnacle of the Melbourne United Basketball Academy pathway — designed for high-performing male and female athletes aged 15–20 who are ready to prepare for the professional level. Just one step away from a Training or Development Player role with an NBL team, this program offers the most advanced training environment within the Academy.
Athletes selected for the Elite Program will undertake weekly sessions combining video review, performance education, and high-intensity on-court training built around Melbourne United’s professional systems. Each athlete will follow an Individual Performance Plan, with added focus on strength and conditioning, nutrition, injury prevention and the physical demands of elite basketball.
With limited spots available each term and entry via try-out only, this program is designed to push athletes to their limits and take their game to the next level.
Each term, athletes will receive:
1-hour sessions for 8, 9 or 10 weeks
$80 per session
Participation is by invite-only via the other programs
Academy sessions run across Melbourne each term, with locations varying based on demand and availability. Once an athlete is placed into a program, they’ll receive a list of hub locations and training days to choose from for their weekly sessions.
1
2
3
4
5
6
Performance and Development Program athletes will each have the opportunity to participate in tailored end-of-term events.
MUBA Combine (for Performance Program athletes)
A high-level event featuring basketball testing inspired by the NBA Draft Combine, thanks to RookieMe. Boys and girls will undergo athletic testing before teaming up for a round robin tournament, coached by Melbourne United’s coaching staff.
MUBA Play Day (for Development Program athletes)
A round robin style event designed to bring together players from across hubs in a fun, team-based environment.
Please note: Each event has its own registration fee, which covers coaching, venue, equipment, and event delivery.
Beyond our regular Talent ID Camps and the Academy Programs, the MUBA offers a series of additional School Holiday camps that any athlete can register for.
Want to find out more about our MUBA programs or receive information about our upcoming events?
By completing the Melbourne United Sports & Business Program, you will have the opportunity for direct articulation* into a range of courses with one of SEDA’s tertiary partners or transition into the workforce. You will be equipped with the knowledge and attributes for a successful future. (*Subject to meeting eligibility requirements)
Match day assistance at Melbourne United home games
Coaching and officiating at Melbourne United basketball clinics
Gain access to Melbourne United players and coaches
Connect with Melbourne United staff in roles such as management, marketing, administration and events
Gain an understanding of what it’s like to work across different roles in the sport industry
Gain pathways to higher education across multiple undergraduate degrees including Exercise Science and Business