OneFortyOne Pioneers Open 2026 Season with Round 1 Double-Header on the Road

The OneFortyOne Pioneers will open their 2026 NBL1 South season with a Round 1 double-header on the road, travelling to face the Ringwood Hawks on Saturday before backing up against the Melbourne Tigers on Sunday.

The opening weekend presents an early test for the group, with two games in as many days set to challenge both depth and conditioning as the new season gets underway.
The Pioneers begin their campaign on Saturday night against Ringwood, with both sides looking to make a strong start to the 2026 season.
Round 1 fixtures often come with an element of unpredictability, with teams still building rhythm following their preseason preparations. For the Pioneers, the focus will be on carrying over the cohesion developed across recent hit-outs, while continuing to integrate new players into the lineup.

Ringwood have recruited well in the off season acquiring Athletic wing Emma Clarke who has plenty of professional experience. Further to this Ringwood have added Taylor Mole who played with league minor premiers Geelong United in 2025 along with Izzy Feller who has prior NBL1 South experience.

Ringwood will be eager to capitalise on home court advantage, setting the stage for a competitive opening contest.

The Pioneers will then travel to face Melbourne on Sunday, completing their Round 1 double-header at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC).

The short turnaround places an emphasis on recovery and consistency, with the ability to maintain intensity across both games likely to be a key factor.

The OneFortyOne Pioneers will also come up against a familiar face in Isabella Brancatisano as she returns to her home club the Melbourne Tigers after three outstanding seasons with the Pioneers. Whilst another familiar face in Zitina Akoso wont suit up for the Tigers as she is currently competing in China on a professional contract.

Melbourne presents another strong challenge, providing the Pioneers with an opportunity to test themselves against quality opposition early in the season.

The OneFortyOne Pioneers enter Round 1 following a completed preseason schedule, with the group gaining valuable match exposure and continuing to build chemistry across the roster.

With a mix of returning players, new recruits and emerging local talent, the opening weekend provides the first opportunity to establish identity and build momentum for the season ahead.

Ringwood Hawks vs OneFortyOne Pioneers

Melbourne Tigers vs OneFortyOne Pioneers

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