Double The Glory: The University of Tasmania Make History With Men’s and Women’s New Balance University Basketball League Wins

Posted 23rd October 2025

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With over 140 games played across five states, the 2025 New Balance University Basketball League (UBL) finished on a historic note, as The University of Tasmania took out both the men’s and women’s titles in their first ever Grand Final appearance, marking the first time a team has won the double in the UBL.

The men kicked off grand final week as USYD hosted The University of Tasmania at USYD Sports and Aquatic Centre. Looking for redemption after missing out on victory in the 2024 Grand Final, USYD were on the hunt as they hit the court running, setting the tone early. After trailing for three quarters and facing a 14-point deficit, Tasmania launched a remarkable fourth-quarter comeback, lifting their intensity on both ends of the court to level the score, before pushing ahead to secure a 79-70 victory and claiming their first New Balance UBL Championship.

The women then took to the court at Warrane Sports Centre, as The University of Tasmania took on the UniSC Mari (University of the Sunshine Coast) with both teams making their New Balance UBL Grand Final debut. The opening quarter was tightly contested, with both sides trading baskets in an even display of skill and intensity. However, momentum shifted in the second term after the Sunshine Coast suffered an injury to a key player, disrupting their rhythm. Tasmania capitalised on this, seizing control and dominating the second and third quarters, at one point creating a 30-point deficit. Despite a late resurgence from the UniSC Mari, who found their spark again and controlled the fourth term, it wasn’t enough to come back, with Tasmania claiming a convincing 96-75 win to secure their first New Balance UBL Championship, completing the men’s and women’s sweep for 2025.

In a post-match interview, women’s player of the match Sharna Thompson (University of Tasmania) who scored 37 points during the Grand Final showdown, said on their maiden win “It’s an amazing feeling, we came in knowing this was going to be a tough game, UniSC added a really talented player to their team since we last played them.” She added “I’m really proud of the girls, and it’s time to celebrate with the boys.” Sharna also highlighted how the team entered the game as a united group, with clear targets and goals to achieve throughout the match, which they were able to accomplish.

The 2025 New Balance UBL season reached new heights this year, delivering thrilling matches, unforgettable moments, and historic achievements across both the men’s and women’s competitions. With Semester Two timing allowing for full-strength line-ups and no longer clashing with NBL1, the season showcased exceptional skill, fierce competition, and a grand final that perfectly capped off an unforgettable campaign. This year has truly set a new benchmark for university basketball.

The New Balance University Basketball League will return next year.