Tyrone Thwaites to depart Basketball WA

Basketball WA’s Tyrone Thwaites will depart the role of Chief Basketball Officer after being appointed to the position of General Manager - NBL1 with the National Basketball League.

Tyrone will depart Basketball WA in mid February following 15 months with the organisation.

BWA Chief Executive Officer, Fabian Ross, said Thwaites achievements during that period had been significant.

“During his time as Chief Basketball Officer, Tyrone played a key role in strengthening the foundations of basketball operations in WA. He has helped modernise how we plan, govern and deliver the sport across performance, pathways and competitions, while maintaining strong relationships with associations, clubs and key national stakeholders.”

“Under Tyrone’s leadership, BWA introduced a number of important and forward-thinking initiatives, including the launch of the state’s first ever Performance and Pathways Strategy, a comprehensive reshaping of governance frameworks across BWA competitions, and the introduction of advisory groups to strengthen community input into decision-making.

“He also played a central role in navigating a new five-year agreement with NBL1 West clubs, supporting the continued growth of the competition, and in securing the first-ever major naming rights partner for the WABL competition - an important commercial milestone for junior elite basketball in Western Australia.”

Ross noted Thwaites important contribution to BWA’s strategic direction.

“Tyrone has been a major contributor to the development of Basketball WA’s upcoming 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, particularly across the Win Well and Basketball for Life pillars. His work has helped set a clear operational foundation to support long-term performance outcomes, participation growth, and system-wide alignment”

Ross congratulated Thwaites on his new role crediting the significant step as a reflection of the impact he has had to basketball in WA.

“Having Western Australian representation at the national level is rare and incredibly valuable. Tyrone’s existing relationships across the country, combined with his deep understanding of the WA basketball ecosystem, will strengthen national collaboration and ensure we remains well positioned within the NBL1 framework. This move will benefit both the national competition and BWA through stronger connections, shared learnings and a higher national profile.”

Tyrone’s departure will give Basketball WA the opportunity to review organisational structure in line with the proposed strategy.