The Curtin Carnabys enter the 2026 New Balance UBL season with a renewed sense of purpose.
Both the men’s and women’s programs will begin an exciting chapter under new leadership this year, laying the foundations for something special.
While building competitive squads remains a priority, the focus extends well beyond results.
The Carnabys are committed to developing connected teams that reflect Curtin’s culture, embrace a fast and fearless style of basketball, and create an environment where every student-athlete can thrive.
For both head coaches, establishing a strong collective identity is central to the program’s growth.
The women’s team is focused on bringing together talented players who are engaged in the program and committed to representing Curtin’s values, while the men’s squad is working to build a group that plays to one another’s strengths, competes relentlessly and embraces every challenge.
As the Carnabys continue to grow, the goal is simple: build a program capable of competing at the highest level while creating a team culture that players are proud to be part of.
With a fresh group of players from across Western Australia, they are looking to establish themselves as a team built on connection, resilience and a willingness to embrace every challenge.
“Our objective is to compete to the best of our abilities as a group and as individuals, and if we do that consistently we will put ourselves into positions to succeed,” said Curtin Men’s Head Coach, David Petroziello.
Fast, fearless and relentless.
That’s the identity the Curtin Carnabys are determined to build in 2026.
The women’s team will play an up-tempo brand of basketball built around aggressive full-court defence and a spread five-out offensive system designed to maximise pace and attacking opportunities.
The men’s team shares that attacking mindset, combining fast, fluid ball movement with physical defence, dynamic decision-making and an uncompromising competitive spirit.
They won’t run from a challenge, but will seek them out.
Beyond the tactical approach, both teams are united by their belief in one another. Every player is encouraged to embrace challenges, celebrate each other’s successes and contribute to a connected team environment where collective effort comes first.
“We play free, we play hard and smart, we play together, and we play to win,” said Men’s Head Coach David Petroziello.
The Curtin Carnabys will be guided by two highly experienced coaches who bring a wealth of knowledge and a shared commitment to developing confident, connected student-athletes.
Women’s Head Coach Fiona Hannan brings extensive experience as both a player and coach at national and international level. Drawing on that experience, she has developed a playing style tailored to the strengths of her squad, creating an environment where players can perform with confidence while enjoying the game.
“I bring to my squad a distilled version of the game that I believe our particular group of players will suit and will enjoy playing within,” said Fiona.
Men’s Head Coach David Petroziello arrives with a clear vision for the program, placing equal importance on player development, team connection and competitive excellence. His philosophy centres on building confidence, helping players understand what high-level basketball looks like, and equipping them with the skills and strategies to achieve it together.
“I want to instill in each player extreme levels of confidence and belief in their abilities, as well as in the abilities of their teammates,” David said on what he wants to achieve most of all with the Curtin team.
Under their leadership, the Carnabys are focused on establishing a strong identity built on trust, accountability and a shared commitment to continuous improvement both on and off the court.
The Curtin Carnabys boast an exciting mix of experienced returners, emerging talent and promising new recruits ready to make their mark in 2026.
An exciting leader on the women’s team, Kabugua will bring high-energy scoring, on-court leadership and plenty of intensity every time she steps onto the floor.
Returning to the Carnabys in 2026, Hearn leads through her actions, combining quiet leadership with relentless hustle and a willingness to do the little things that lift those around her.
A returning player expected to take on an expanded role this season, Supljeglav will be looking to use his experience to help lead the Carnabys in 2026.
After impressing in previous campaigns, Power is another returning player poised to make an even greater impact as his role within the team continues to grow.
Known for his energy and competitiveness, Evans is set to play an important role as one of the Carnabys’ experienced returning players this season.
One of the program’s exciting young recruits, Kabugua will be looking to establish himself as a key contributor as he begins his UBL journey with the Carnabys.
Joining the Carnabys as a promising new recruit, Fenton has the opportunity to grow into an important member of the program in the seasons ahead.
Another exciting addition to the men’s squad, Raison arrives ready to develop his game and make his mark.
At Curtin University, we are a connected group that believes in each other and we celebrate each other’s successes as our own.
David Petroziello, Curtin University UBL Men’s Head Coach
No fixture generates more excitement for the Curtin Carnabys than the Western Derby against The University of Western Australia.
With state pride, local bragging rights and two of Western Australia’s leading university basketball programs going head-to-head, the rivalry has become one of the standout match-ups on the UBL calendar.
Players from across both squads identified the clash with UWA as the game they’re most looking forward to, eager for the opportunity to prove themselves on the biggest stage in Western Australian university basketball.
Beyond the derby, the Carnabys are also looking forward to testing themselves against UniSC and the league’s other leading programs, embracing every challenge as they continue to build their identity throughout the 2026 season.
The Curtin Carnabys experience extends far beyond the final buzzer.
Backed by a passionate university community, the program has built one of the most exciting game-day atmospheres in the UBL, creating an environment where players, students and supporters come together to celebrate university basketball.
Home games are a signature of the Curtin program, with lights, music, game-day activations and packed crowds combining to create an electric atmosphere. The energy generated by Curtin students and supporters not only lifts the Carnabys but also creates a memorable experience for everyone who walks through the doors.
“The atmosphere our students create, along with the show Curtin puts on, gives every game an incredible vibe,” said Curtin UBL player Jasmin Clark.
That connection between the team and the Curtin community is what makes home games so special, with player Harry Evans highlighting the impact of the crowd and game-day production.
“Having a home crowd behind us, combined with the special effects and game-day atmosphere, makes every home game exciting to play in.”
Beyond the excitement of game day, the Curtin Carnabys program also provides meaningful opportunities for students to gain practical experience in a high-performance sporting environment.
Through the UBL program, students can take part in work-integrated learning opportunities across digital marketing, event management, sport management, physiotherapy and sports media, contributing to the delivery and growth of the program.
As the Carnabys embark on an exciting new era under experienced coaching staff, the focus is on building more than successful basketball teams.
With a fast-paced style of play, a connected team culture and traditions beginning to take shape, Curtin is creating a program where student-athletes can compete, develop and proudly represent their university for years to come.
University: Curtin University
2025 Result: Men’s Ninth Place | Women’s Quarter Finalists
Claim to Fame: A basketball program driven by community, connection and unforgettable game days
Style of Play: Fast, aggressive basketball
Rival to Watch: The University of Western Australia and University of the Sunshine Coast
Players to Watch: Aleka Kabugua, Piper Heam, Dean Supljeglav, Caleb Power, Harry Evans, Kai Kabugua, Mitch Fenton, Harper Raison
2026 Goal: To build a connected team culture and competitive identity that allows them to challenge the best in the UBL
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