Hard Work, Hoops & Heart: Tatum Whalley’s Journey

From the courts of Western Australia to the international basketball stage, Tatum (Tate) Whalley is making waves and turning heads.

A proud descendant of the McLeod whānau, Tate was recently named point guard for the Under 18 Western Australia State Basketball Team, competing at Nationals in Brisbane this past April. This marks her third State Team selection, a testament to her skill, dedication, and over six years of commitment to the WA state basketball programme.

Tate is also a sports scholarship recipient with the Great Southern Academy of Sport in Albany, WA — a recognition of her elite potential and consistent performance.

Her success isn't limited to Australian shores. In July 2024, Tate competed in the AAU 'Run for the Roses' tournament in Louisville, Kentucky, one of the largest youth basketball events in the world, with over 14,000 athletes. Not only did her team rise to the occasion — they won, taking home the title of Gold Division Champions.

Later in the year, in December, she stepped onto another massive stage at the AAU 'Nike Tournament of Champions' in Phoenix, Arizona. Playing alongside two Australian Under 18 national team members, Tate’s ATC Academy team competed in the Championship Prep School Division, the highest tier of youth basketball in the U.S. They reached the playoffs, only falling to the formidable IMG Academy in a tight battle for third. In an impressive feat, Tate's team finished 4th overall, even securing a win over Australia’s Centre of Excellence team — the official national development squad.

Tate's story is one of perseverance, pride, and passion — a rangatahi carrying her whānau and community with her as she continues to excel at the highest levels. We’re incredibly proud to celebrate her success and can’t wait to see where her journey leads next.

He hōnore, he korōria – Tino pai, Tate!