Back for 2026

Continuity is just as powerful as recruitment.

While in-conference movement has drawn plenty of attention this off-season, several cornerstone players have recommitted to their clubs for the NBL1 South 2026 season — reinforcing culture, leadership and established systems across the competition.

Here are some of the key names confirmed to be back in their familiar colours for 2026.

Jonathan Lawton

Ringwood Hawks

Ringwood’s offensive engine returns, with Jonathon Lawton locked in for another campaign in Hawks colours.

A 2025 NBL1 South Select Team member who featured against the Adelaide 36ers in an NBL practice game, Lawton averaged 19.7 points, 3.8 assists, 3.5 rebounds and 2.2 steals per game last season. His ability to score at all three levels while disrupting passing lanes makes him one of the conference’s most dynamic guards.

His return ensures continuity for a Hawks side that relies heavily on his two-way production.

Paige Bradley

Knox Raiders

The reigning NBL1 South Grand Final and NBL1 National Final MVP is back at Knox.

Bradley averaged 7.3 points, 7.7 assists and 4.0 rebounds per game in 2025, but her value extended well beyond the stat sheet, controlling tempo, creating opportunities and delivering on the biggest stage. Most recently competing with Southern Hoiho in New Zealand, she returns with further international experience.

Her leadership and big-game composure remain central to the Raiders’ title aspirations.

DeMarcus Gatlin

Geelong United

A foundation piece of Geelong United’s program, DeMarcus Gatlin returns for his eighth season with the club.

The NBL1 2019  MVP and NBL1 South 2024 Defensive Player of the Year averaged 13.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 2.0 steals per game in 2025. His all-around impact, defensive intensity and playmaking versatility continue to define Geelong’s identity.

Few players in the competition bring his longevity and influence to one club.

Bec Cole

Waverley Falcons

Entering her fifth season with the Falcons, Bec Cole remains one of the competition’s premier offensive threats.

A 2019 NBL1 All-Star Five member, 2024 NBL1 South Champion, 2024 NBL1 National Champion and National Final Grand Final MVP, Cole averaged 22.5 points, 5.8 assists, 4.8 rebounds and 1.7 steals per game in 2025. Her scoring punch and leadership have been central to Waverley’s sustained success.

Her return signals clear intent from the reigning powerhouse.

Malik Meunier

Waverley Falcons

Waverley also retain one of the league’s most versatile guards in Malik Meunier.

The 2025 Golden Hands Award winner averaged 16.8 points, 5.2 assists and 6.3 rebounds per game, highlighting his ability to contribute across every category. A former NBL1 West Champion and First Team member with the Geraldton Buccaneers, Meunier brings balance, composure and defensive anticipation to the Falcons’ backcourt.

His continuity strengthens an already cohesive unit.

Nikita Young

Kilsyth Cobras

Nikita Young enters her seventh season with the Kilsyth Cobras, continuing a long-standing partnership built on consistency and growth.

Young averaged 13.9 points, 2.4 assists and 4.7 rebounds per game in 2025 and most recently featured in the WNBL with the Southside Melbourne Flyers. Her experience at national level adds further polish to an already established NBL1 South contributor.

Her return maintains stability for the Cobras as they look to climb in 2026.

These are just some of the returning stars confirmed for the NBL1 South 2026 season, with more announcements still to come.

Volume Two of Back for 2026 is on the way.

The NBL1 South 2026 season tips off on Friday 27th March 2026. For all the latest updates, including player signings, coaching appointments and league news, make sure you’re following NBL1 South on Facebook and Instagram.