Progressing through the Junior Championship pathway herself, Ebzery competed at Under-16, Under-18 and Under-20 level before going on to forge a career in the WNBL and with the Opals.
Still just 27 years of age, Ebzery helped the national team qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympics with a FIBA Oceania gold medal in 2015, was named in the WNBL All-Star Five as a member of the Sydney Uni Flames a year later before winning a FIBA Asia Cup silver medal earlier this year with the Opals.
“I am honoured to be named patron,” Ebzery said.
“I look back fondly on my Junior Championships experience as a member of NSW Country, it was a big part of development as a basketballer and I am looking forward to next year’s tournament.”
After a stint in Europe, Ebzery has returned to the WNBL this season with the Flames as they aim to defend their Championship from last season.
Her involvement with the club has given her a first-hand look at some of the developing players in Sydney and she believes that fans should be getting excited about the next generation of Australian stars.
“Under-20’s is a great showcase of who is coming up through the ranks. I’ve been lucky enough to witness a couple of the girls coming through the Flames squad as well as the Australian junior teams.
“It is a really exciting time with the level of talent coming through and for people around the Gosford, Newcastle and Maitland area to come and watch some awesome basketball.”
Maria Nordstrom, Basketball NSW CEO, echoed those sentiments that the Under-20’s will provide great entertainment over the five days.
“A lot of athletes will be from our national junior teams so fans will see some amazing talent,” said Nordstrom.
“It’s fantastic that we are getting a big event back to the Central Coast. They have a long history of hosting successful events at this level and we are delighted for the Under-20’s to return.”
Scholastic Sports Stadium will act as the main venue for the tournament which will see 20+ teams participate in over 80 games across five days.
2018 Australian Under-20 and Ivor Burge Championships:
February 7-11, 2018
Scholastic Sports Stadium
Duffys Rd, Terrigal NSW 2260
