It’s Swamp season.
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This weekend Shepparton Gators return to the court to tip off the 2025 Big V Championship season.
After returning to Big V’s top division for the first time in almost two decades in a historic season last year, they have shrugged off the underdog label, but the chip on the shoulder remains.
Coach Josh Waight said he’s excited for the fans to see the new-look Shepparton side.
“It’s always exciting to start a new season and I’m really looking forward to seeing how this group plays together,” Waight said.
“We’ve got a different look this year, maybe not as big, but definitely quicker and more suited to playing in transition.
“It’s going to be a fun, exciting brand of basketball.”
While the new international recruits have only been training with the squad for a few weeks, Waight said they had hit the court running.
“The group has done a fantastic job fitting in,” he said.
“I love how calm and composed they are.
“Nothing really rattles them.
“They don’t get flustered or upset easily and they genuinely celebrate each other’s success.”
Waight and the rest of the coaching staff have their hands full with a deep squad, putting pressure on everyone to be at their best.
It also means there’ll be tough decisions, some players might play fewer minutes from week to week, but Waight believes if everyone buys in and puts the team first, it can be one of Shepparton’s greatest strengths.
Last season, Shepparton just dipped its toes into the season early on and, at times, struggled to keep its head above water.
The Gators picked up some tough losses down the stretch of the season in 2024, before miraculously making the finals by going five from five to end the year.
Waight is hoping to start fast and be in a better position by the end of the year.
“We know we have to show up ready every game,” he said.
“One player can win you a game, but it’s the collective that gets you through the season.’’
The new-look Shepparton Gators take on Blackburn at Shepparton Sports Stadium on Saturday, March 29 at 7pm.
“I’m really excited for our first match-up against Blackburn and for the new guys to experience the support of our local fans,’’ Waight said.
“Playing in front of such a passionate home crowd is something special and I know they’ll love it.”
New recruits:
Eric ‘‘Bizzy’’ Miraflores
A crafty and experienced guard, Eric Miraflores brings a wealth of international and NBL1 East experience to Shepparton in 2025. Known for his flashy, yet efficient style, ‘Bizzy’ can shoot, pass and run the floor with ease.
“I’m looking forward to being a part of the Gators family and working hard to get another ring for us this year as well as teaching and passing on my knowledge of the game to the youth over there.”
Aaron Dolny
Fresh off a championship with Wyndham, left-handed sharpshooter Aaron Dolny joins the Gators for the 2025 season. The athletic guard/wing is known for his high-percentage three-point shooting and all-around impact, fresh off of playing college basketball in the US.
“I joined the Gators because they gave me the opportunity to play a great brand of basketball and be a part of something bigger than just basketball.”
Ryan Batte
Hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio, 198cm (6’6’’) forward Ryan Batte brings versatility, strength and international experience to the Gators line-up. After a recent stint in Indonesia, Batte is set to make an impact on both ends of the floor, using his skillset to defend and contribute across multiple positions.
“I wanted to be a part of the Shepparton Gators because I’ve always wanted to play in Australia. Coach Waight gave me a call, explained everything to me and he told me how much love there was for basketball in the community.”
Taine Wattie
New Zealand-born guard/wing Taine Wattie joins the Gators with blistering speed, defensive smarts and a gritty, all-out playing style. Standing at 188cm (6’2’’), Wattie brings NBL1 experience from stints with Townsville and Geraldton, adding valuable depth and versatility to the squad.
“I heard a lot of good things about the Shepparton crowd, the people are amazing here and really welcoming.”
Bryce “Breeze” Brown
Atlanta native Bryce Brown is a 203cm (6’8’’) forward/centre bringing versatility, size and skill to the Gators’ front court. Fresh off his college career at Lindsey Wilson in Kentucky, the 24-year-old can stretch the floor, dominate inside and protect the paint.
“I’d love to win a championship in my first year overseas, I want to compete and have fun while doing it.”
Cadet journalist