Rising from the Ashes: NBL27 Indigenous Jersey

The Phoenix will wear their Indigenous Jersey for the NBL's Indigenous Round on November 22 when they take on the Cairns Taipans at John Cain Arena.

Get your tickets to the November 22 game

The jersey was designed by proud Aboriginal woman from the Kulin Nation, Tiffany Hunter who is an artist, mentor and founder of Tiffany Hunter Studio and Nerdu Badji Education.

Tiffany uses art as a powerful tool for storytelling, healing, cultural strengthening and connection. Her work blends contemporary art with connection to her own story, identity and sense of belonging. Through vibrant paintings, large-scale collaborations and workshops, Tiffany creates spaces where people can thrive, reflect on their own journeys and build stronger relationships with one another.

Tiffany's story behind the Phoenix's Indigenous Jersey for NBL27 is Rising from the Ashes.

The South East Melbourne Phoenix Heartland is more than basketball, it is about community, connection and creating opportunities for future generations across the South East suburbs of Melbourne and Gippsland, on the lands of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people.

Wurundjeri people have cared for community, brought people together, shared knowledge and created strong pathways for others to grow and belong. That same spirit is seen today through the Heartland, building safe and inclusive spaces where young people can feel supported, connected and inspired. Just like Wurundjeri people have done for generations, the Heartland continues to strengthen community through leadership, resilience, teamwork and opportunity, showing the power of coming together and backing one another.

Stars symbolising the players and what it means to win a championship in the NBL, countless hours and sacrifice that goes in to being a star player. Butterfly symbolising evolving, continuing to develop the habits, characteristics and keep the vision strong whilst continuing to expand on winning the championship. Leaf is a reminder of remembering to reflect on what shaped you, where you came from and your connection to country.

The Phoenix is a powerful symbol of resilience, renewal and rising stronger through adversity. The Phoenix is a bird that rises from the ashes after hardship, representing hope, growth and new beginnings. For the South East Melbourne Phoenix, the name reflects strength, community spirit and the ability to rebuild, evolve and continue moving forward together.

Fans can purchase the NBL27 Indigenous Jersey from the Phoenix Merch Shop now.