Hynes Returns to Ballarat Miners for 2027

Melbourne United Development Player Will Hynes will return to his hometown Ballarat Miners for the 2027 NBL1 South season after a breakout 2026 campaign.

The Ballarat Miners have secured the return of local guard Will Hynes for the 2027 NBL1 South season, with the 24-year-old coming off a career-best year that earned him an opportunity in the NBL.

Hynes was one of NBL1 South's leading scorers in 2026, averaging 22.4 points per game for the Miners.

His performances caught the attention of Melbourne United, who signed the Ballarat product as a Development Player ahead of the NBL27 season.

Hynes has since made his NBL debut and recently scored his first points for United against the Brisbane Bullets.

Despite his progression to the national competition, Hynes remains committed to representing his hometown in NBL1 South.

“Growing up in Ballarat, representing this town means a lot to me. I'm grateful for the opportunity to put on the Miners jersey again and can't wait to get out there in front of our home crowd,” Hynes said.

The re-signing is among the first roster moves under newly appointed Miners Head Coach Luke Cann, who believes Hynes can take another step forward in 2027.

“Will proved last season that he’s a genuine NBL1 player. The next challenge is to lead his hometown team and help shape a winning program. He’s someone we want to build around,” Cann said.

“Our job is to give him the trust and support to be himself, grow, make mistakes and get back up again. He’s earned this opportunity through hard work, and I’m excited to see him take that next step and show what he’s capable of.”

Cann also pointed to Hynes' connection to Ballarat as an important part of the club's direction.

“Will embodies what we want this Ballarat team to represent—a local country boy with a great attitude, a willingness to earn everything and the ambition to represent his community at higher levels. I’m excited to be part of that journey with him.”

Hynes will enter the 2027 NBL1 South season looking to build on his scoring form while taking on a greater leadership role under Cann.