The Bob Mann Basketball Academy: Building Better Players, Mentoring Better People
In the heart of Melbourne, Australia, a unique basketball initiative is taking shape, driven by the vision and passion of its founder, Bob Mann. The Bob Mann Basketball Academy (BMBA) is more than just a training program—it’s a transformative platform designed to develop young athletes into skilled players and principled individuals. With over three decades of experience in the sport, Mann has created an academy that stands out for its commitment to excellence, both on and off the court.
Bob Mann’s journey in basketball began in 1990, when he transitioned from an Australian Rules Football background to coaching basketball in Victoria, one of Australia’s toughest basketball regions. Starting with no prior knowledge, Mann immersed himself in the sport, learning through books, videos, clinics, and hands-on experience. Over the next 27 years, he honed his craft, achieving remarkable success and leaving an indelible mark on the basketball community.
One of Mann’s proudest accomplishments is founding the McKinnon Basketball Association in 1990. What began with five kids in his backyard has grown into a thriving organization with over 3,000 members and nine courts. During his 19-year tenure, Mann served as President, General Manager, and Head Coach, building a respected representative program from scratch. His teams competed in the Victorian Championships, widely regarded as the toughest junior competition in the Southern Hemisphere, and achieved multiple finals appearances.
Mann’s influence extends beyond McKinnon. From 2009 to 2016, he revitalized the Oakleigh Basketball Association, growing it from a struggling entity with four teams to a robust organization boasting over 100 teams and a membership exceeding 500.
His coaching resume includes guiding players to state and national representation, securing U.S. college scholarships, and even reaching Australia’s National Basketball League (NBL).
The BMBA Vision: More Than Just Basketball
Launched as an extension of Mann’s lifelong commitment to the sport, the BMBA is built on a clear mission: to develop committed players with above-average ability, educate coaches, and provide clubs with structured programs that foster growth. However, Mann’s ambitions go further. His ultimate goal is to establish a secondary college in Melbourne that specializes in basketball development while delivering a quality education—a holistic approach to nurturing talent.
At its core, the BMBA is a program of excellence. It targets players with serious ambitions, offering elite-level coaching, skill development, and opportunities to compete locally, nationally, and even internationally through basketball tours. The academy’s “Templar Warriors” teams embody Mann’s philosophy, inspired by the Knights Templar and rooted in a code of honour that emphasizes respect, integrity, and pride.
Programs and Opportunities
The BMBA offers a range of initiatives tailored to young athletes. For example, its U16 Boys team recently competed in the Southern Basketball Association’s Autumn season, combining competitive play with the academy’s “Basketball Plus Training” program.
This comprehensive training, priced at $250 per term, ensures players receive consistent skill-building alongside game experience. Holiday camps, such as the June Holiday Basketball Camp,
provide additional opportunities for development, while tournaments like the Eltham Dandenong and South East Junior Basketball events offer competitive exposure.
The academy also prioritizes accessibility and community engagement. Clinics at schools like Westall Secondary College introduce students to basketball, sparking interest and identifying potential talent. Mann’s innovative “BMBA Invitational” competition format focuses on player and team development, creating a structured environment for growth.
A Mentor’s Heart
What sets the BMBA apart is Mann’s emphasis on mentoring. He doesn’t just want to create great players—he wants to shape great people. This ethos is evident in the academy’s values, which prioritize hard work, perseverance, and respect for others. Mann’s personal touch is felt in every aspect of the program, from his hands-on coaching to his efforts to secure sponsorships and facilities, such as the state-of-the-art Stonnington Sports Centre.
Mann’s frustration with traditional club politics—where development often takes a backseat to administration—fuels his determination to offer an alternative. At the BMBA, coaching is independent, structured, and transparent, building skills progressively over time. It’s a place where effort and achievement are rewarded, not cliques or connections.
Looking Ahead
As of March 26, 2025, the BMBA is gaining momentum. With new teams, uniforms, and venues, 2023 marked a busy start, and the academy continues to expand its reach. Mann’s plans for a dedicated training facility and a podcast to promote events and share knowledge reflect his forward-thinking approach.
Meanwhile, events like the BMJ Reunion Night on June 7 showcase his commitment to celebrating the past while building the future.
For parents and players seeking a basketball program that combines elite coaching with character development, the Bob Mann Basketball Academy offers a compelling choice. It’s a place where young athletes can chase their dreams, supported by a mentor who believes in their potential—both as players and as people.
As Mann himself puts it, the BMBA is “the most exciting undertaking” of his career, and for those who join, it’s a chance to be part of something truly special.
