Local basketballer James Myers has helped Victoria claim victory at the 2026 Ivor Burge National Championships, held this year in Ballarat.
Myers, a mainstay in Victorian colours for the past 17 years, has shown unwavering commitment, courage, and state pride throughout his long career. For him, basketball has always been more than a game — it provides structure, purpose, and meaning.
“My basketball journey
has shaped who I am,”
Myers said.
“I’ve made great friends who understand me, and I know they’ll always be there. I’ve travelled and experienced things I never thought I would.”
His family has travelled thousands of kilometres, reshaped weekends, and pushed through exhaustion, knowing every sacrifice supported Myers’ growth and confidence.
First selected for Victoria in 2009 at just 13, Myers has developed through the Ivor Burge program, growing both as a player and a young man. Through basketball, he has learned commitment, teamwork, and resilience, while remaining grounded and humble.
Diagnosed at eight with an intellectual disability, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Myers began his basketball journey at Nicholson Primary School in grade four. His talent was noticed by a physical education teacher at a specialist school, who invited Ivor Burge representatives to watch him play at an inter-school sports day.
Now a builder’s labourer, Myers trains after work, following a disciplined routine of stretching, running, shooting, and ball-handling drills. His dedication has impressed coaches over
the years.
“I’ve coached Jimmy for nearly nine years across state and national programs,” said Ivor Burge men’s head coach Ryan Holloway.
“He is calm, composed, and dependable, while bringing infectious energy and humour — the teammate everyone likes.”
Myers’ trophy cabinet tells the story of a remarkable career. From 2013 to 2025, he won a medal every year except 2015, and he has helped Australia secure international medals in 2017, 2019, 2022, and 2023, alongside podium finishes at the Special Olympics in 2013 and the INAS Global Games in 2019.
His journey demonstrates that persistence, dedication, and passion can turn talent into lasting achievement, both on and off the court.
