South Starting Five - Round 4

ANZAC Round arrives in the NBL1 South 2026 season, with all 19 clubs and the league’s officials coming together to recognise and honour Australia and New Zealand’s servicemen and women. With special uniforms, annual matchups and a unique international showcase, Round 4 carries meaning well beyond the result on the floor.

1. ANZAC Round across the league

All clubs and officials will mark ANZAC Round this weekend, with a league wide tribute reflected on court.

Officials, supported by RSL Victoria, will wear camo sleeved shirts featuring the ANZAC Appeal branding, while several clubs will showcase dedicated uniforms. Frankston, Dandenong and Melbourne return with their 2025 ANZAC singlets, while Bendigo and Ballarat unveil new designs for 2026.

Across every venue, the round provides a moment to pause, reflect and recognise the values of service, sacrifice and community.

2. ANZAC Eve clash returns in Frankston

One of the league’s most established traditions returns, with the Frankston Blues hosting the Dandenong Rangers in their annual ANZAC Round matchup.

The ladder context adds another layer. In the women’s competition, Frankston sit 9th while Dandenong are 15th, both searching for momentum. In the men’s, Dandenong remain on top of the ladder, with Frankston sitting 9th and looking to challenge one of the competition’s early benchmarks.

It is a fixture that continues to build history each season, and while the rivalry speaks for itself, one storyline stands out. Lucas Barker, having represented both clubs across his career, remains undefeated in this game.

A familiar stage, a proven performer, and another chapter to be written under the ANZAC Round spotlight.

3. Tigers add international presence

Melbourne Tigers have strengthened their women’s program, announcing the signing of Chinese National Team player Chen Mingling, who joins Shuyu Yanh on the roster.

Both are expected to feature this weekend, adding another layer of intrigue to an already evolving Tigers lineup.

With international talent now in the mix, Melbourne’s next outing shapes as a must watch, includeing Sunday's Game of the Week Live and Free on Kayo Freebies on Sunday.

4. Pioneers set the benchmark

Mount Gambier remain the only undefeated team in the NBL1 South  competition, holding firm after a double overtime win last week.

Their resilience has defined their start to the season, and they now return home to face the Waverley Falcons on Saturday night.

Undefeated runs always draw attention, but the question now becomes how long they can sustain it as the competition begins to tighten.

5. South v China adds to the week

While not officially part of the Round 4 fixture, the NBL1 South Select Team’s clash with Team China Under 18 Men adds another layer to the week.

The matchup brings together some of the conference’s top young talent against an international opponent, continuing the league’s connection to the global game.

It may sit outside the traditional round structure, but it remains one of the most unique and compelling showcases on the calendar.