Basketball Australia today announced the appointment of Jason Smith to the position of Executive General Manager-High Performance.
Following an international search in collaboration with the AIS, Smith was appointed to this key strategic role responsible for building and managing the pathways to develop young talent and drive the success of our national senior programs.
The global landscape of basketball is changing rapidly with new competitors emerging, sports science improvements, world class facilities and funding all driving nations success. Smith’s extensive background in basketball and business will be integral in navigating this complex landscape.
Australia’s reputation in basketball resulted in a strong list of candidates both internationally and domestically.
“We knew this role would attract highly capable candidates with the unprecedented growth in basketball and Australia’s stellar record on the international stage” said Scriven.
“Jason’s commitment to our sport, his business acumen together with his basketball IQ was second to none. This is a pivotal role for our business as we navigate the changing global landscape to ensure we have the right pathways and programs to develop our next generation of players. We are delighted that he has accepted the role and will be at the helm as we head towards the Olympics later this year.”
Basketball Australia Board Member and three-time Olympian Suzy Batkovic OLY was on the selection panel.
“I can’t stress enough how important this role is for our sport, the level of planning and strategy that is required to ensure podium success is unprecedented” said Batkovic.
“Jason is not only an impressive candidate but a great person who cares deeply about our sport and ensuring every athlete has the opportunity to represent their country and achieve the highest level that they can. He is an exceptional leader who will ensure that we remain a global force to be reckoned with.”
Smith is a dual Olympian and former Boomers captain who played 413 NBL Games winning championships in 1996, 2004 and 2005.
Jason was part of the gold medal winning team at the 2006 Commonwealth Games and represented Australia 105 times including at the 2006 FIBA World Championships. He worked in senior leadership positions at both the Commonwealth Bank and Domo a data integration and analytics business.
“I’ve stayed involved in basketball through my role managing the Boomers and coaching, ensuring athletes have what they need to succeed is what drives me. This role is challenging as we are playing in such a competitive environment, keeping the pathways healthy and ensuring we are at the forefront of innovation is going to be the key for sustained success.”
“I would like to personally thank Jan Stirling who laid the foundations for our national teams to continue to have success in this rapidly changing environment,” said Smith.
Smith has commenced in his role and is currently in Brazil with the Seven Consulting Opals as they compete for an Olympics spot.
Basketball Australia welcomes Junior Viranatuleo as the new Boomers Team Lead, he joins Trish Fallon OLY who leads the Seven Consulting Opals both roles will report into Smith.
