Grassroots Basketball Stories: Tom Wilson and the Melbourne Tigers

Having come up through the junior basketball ranks in Melbourne, Tom Wilson is passionate about giving back to the sport and carving a pathway for young hoopers to follow moving forward.

That is why when the opportunity presented itself to coach a junior team at his former club, the Melbourne Tigers, the United star jumped in head first.

Speaking to Melbourne United Media, Wilson touched on why he’s loved taking the reins and helping out at his former club.

“I was very fortunate as a kid to have some very good coaches help me along my journey,” he said.

“Being around the Tigers is very special to me, and as someone that’s been around the game for a long time it’s always been something I’ve wanted to do.

“As soon as they asked if I would be interested in coming down and doing some coaching sessions, I was all for it. It’s been so much fun working with all the kids, they’re all pretty cheeky, so it’s a fun environment.

“It sort of reminds you of why you started playing, just to have fun and be energetic on the court. It’s really grounding and rewarding to be a part of.

The hot-scoring guard, who recently won MVP of the NBL1 South with the Tigers, said he hopes he can have a positive influence on the children he’s coaching.

“Basketball is something that you should play because you love it, and I think having a good coach that cares about the game can help build that love.

“Having good coaches really rubbed off on me coming up through the ranks and I hope I can do the same for the group I’m working with.”

Sunday afternoon will see the club celebrate everything to do with local basketball as part of The Grassroots Game.

Kicking off at 4:30pm inside John Cain Arena against the Cairns Taipans, this is the perfect opportunity to see our stars hit the court and represent your local basketball club.

Less than 1,000 tickets remain, so get in fast to secure your seat today!