New kids on the court: Team Monash begins a new era in the UBL
A new chapter in Monash University sport is about to begin. When the 2026 New Balance University Basketball League (UBL) tips off, Team Monash will take the court for the very first time, marking an historic milestone for varsity sport and student life.
As the competition's newest varsity squad, Monash isn't simply joining another league. It's launching a program designed to elevate the student experience, unite the university community and create a lasting legacy for future student-athletes.
Comprised of 32 recently-selected student-athletes from across multiple faculties and campuses, the inaugural men's and women's squads share a commitment to representing Monash with pride, purpose and connection. Backed by a passionate student community and recent national success in 3x3 basketball, Team Monash enters the UBL ready to embrace the challenge.
Every successful team has its own identity. For Monash, it's simple: physical, dynamic and connected. The program is built on intensity, trust and teamwork, competing with purpose while supporting one another every possession.
‘We want to be a team that is known for our defensive intensity, our ability to adapt and execute offensively, and our unwavering commitment to play for each other,’says Men's Head Coach Fraser Kennedy. ‘That's the standard we're setting from round one.’
Alongside Women's Head Coach Conor Mathews, Kennedy is focused on building more than a competitive team. Together, they're establishing a culture where student-athletes can grow as competitors, teammates and leaders.
‘This first season is about more than wins and losses,’ says Mathews. ‘It's about establishing the standards, culture and identity that will set the tone for all those players that come after us.’
On Friday 24 July, both Monash teams took on Deakin University in a friendly UBL season warm up game to close out Orientation Week with both Monash teams scoring victory.
The UBL is about far more than what happens on the court. We’re creating a game-day experience that brings the university together through packed home crowds, student activations, entertainment and new traditions. The season highlight will be Bring the Blue Round on 4 September, where students, staff, alumni and supporters will turn Clayton into a sea of blue.
Team Monash's inaugural squad features an exciting mix of experienced leaders and emerging talent, including captains Kassie Boorer and Tom Carroll, who will help lead the program's first chapter.
‘Being part of Team Monash's inaugural UBL season is incredibly special,’ says Boorer. ‘We're not just representing the University, we're helping build something that future players will be proud to be part of.’
The jerseys are new. The rivalries are just beginning. For Team Monash, this isn't simply the start of a season - it's the beginning of a legacy.
Be the first in know about UBL game tickets by registering your email to become a Team Monash Supporter and be sure to save the date: season tickets for our home games and away game watch parties launch on August 17.