Pioneers Lock in their 2026 Pre-Season schedule ahead of NBL1 South Campaign

The Mount Gambier Pioneers have confirmed their full pre-season schedule ahead of the 2026 season, with both the OneFortyOne Pioneers (Women) and Castec Rural Pioneers (Men) set for a comprehensive preperation as the club's lead-in to the opening round of the 2026 NBL1 South season.

Official pre-season preparations will commence in the week beginning 23 February 2026, marking the return to the court for players and coaching staff as preparations intensify ahead of Round 1.

Both squads will again feature in the Four-Team Challenge in Millicent, to be held across 27 February, 28 February and 1st of March weekend, providing an early opportunity for Limestone Coast Pioneers fans access to watch their teams competitive to play early in the pre season.

The OneFortyOne Pioneers will travel to Keith on Monday the 9th of March, where they are scheduled to play NBL1 Central's North Adelaide Rockets.

Meanwhile, the Castec Rural Pioneers will face Geelong United on Saturday, 7 March, in the club’s annual pre-season fixture held in Portland. The match continues a strong regional connection and provides a valuable hit-out against a familiar NBL1 South rival.

Both the OneFortyOne and Castec Rural Pioneers will then head to Melbourne to compete in the NBL1 Blitz, to be held at Courtside Melbourne on 14 and 15 March. The Blitz will bring together clubs from across the league in a high-intensity pre-season environment, offering a final opportunity to fine-tune systems ahead of the season opener.

The club has also indicated it is hopeful of confirming additional pre-season games in the coming weeks, with further announcements to be made once arrangements are finalised.

Off the court, anticipation is also building ahead of the new season. The Mount Gambier Pioneers will shortly confirm details surrounding the club’s 2026 Season Launch, providing members and supporters with an official start to the year.

Memberships for the 2026 NBL1 South season are now on sale, offering access to all home games at Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre, while Corporate Hospitality packages — including courtside seating, corporate boxes and player sponsorship opportunities — are also now available.

The 2026 NBL1 South season is set to tip off on Friday, 27 March, with the Pioneers’ pre-season program designed to ensure both teams enter Round 1 prepared, connected, and ready to compete once again in green and black.

The Pioneers will play their first home game of the 2026 season at Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre on Friday, 17 April, against the Ballarat Miners.