THREE of Tamworth's brightest junior basketball stars have shined during recent representative duties.
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Harrison Barton (under-15), Charlie Whale (under-14) and Gabi Higgins (under-15) have given good accounts of themselves during the first round of NSW Basketball's D League.
The trio went up against some of the best players in the state during the first of three rounds of the competition.
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Tamworth Basketball Association's development officer Matt Hobson said the experience of playing in the D League would be vital to the trio's development.
"We were initially set to send four kids to the D League, but Katie Sheppard unfortunately injured herself before the first round," Hobson said.
"However, our other three juniors have really enjoyed the experience so far.
"It's really pleasing for our association to have four kids selected in two different age groups and I'm sure they will excel."
Fresh into his new role as Tamworth's development officer, Hobson said he was eager to help promote the game locally.
"A lot of the other basketball associations in regional NSW have a development officer, so it is a great step forward for us to follow that trend," he said.
"It came as a bit of a shock, to be honest, but it's certainly something I'm really looking forward to doing.
"I'm really hoping I can do what I can to help basketball grow here in Tamworth."
Hobson said his main focus would be on improving participation levels.
"There's no question we have got some really talented players across all age groups," he said.
"At times though, those age groups can lack a little bit of depth, so bolstering our playing numbers is something I'd really like to achieve.
"Our plans are to get out to the local schools and really show off what basketball has to offer.
"Hopefully when the kids see the sport in front of them, it will encourage them to get involved and have a go."
The D League will continue over the next two weekends.