Summer Jam Streetball Takes Over Australia in 2026

Australia’s biggest celebration of basketball culture is officially back. Summer Jam is open, active and gearing up for its most ambitious chapter yet. The 2026 edition will expand across four cities before landing in Melbourne for a massive three-day championship from 20th to 22nd February 2026. Fans can expect elite streetball, live music, creators, global guests and a high-energy atmosphere that defines the event’s legacy.

A Festival That Blends Sport, Culture and Community

Summer Jam has shaped basketball culture in Australia for more than a decade. What began on local outdoor courts has evolved into a cultural movement that joins sport, music, creativity and community. Founded in 2011 by Eamon Larman Ripon and Daniel Ella, the festival has created a platform for pro-am players, emerging talent and creators who want to compete, connect and represent their city.

The upcoming season introduces a newly expanded national tour. The Summer Jam Tour begins in January 2026 and will bring its signature energy to Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne and Sydney. Each location will host a free streetball festival with elite 5v5 competitions, National and World Slam Dunk Contests, DJs, MCs, food trucks and special guests. Winners from each city will secure automatic entry into the flagship Championship event in Melbourne.

A Championship That Draws Global Attention

The 2026 Summer Jam Championships at Peanut Farm Reserve in St Kilda will deliver one of the most vibrant events of the season. Fans can expect men’s and women’s divisions competing for a $20,000 prize pool. Additionally, the National Slam Dunk Contest will draw top dunkers from Australia and around the world. The Creator Cup will return, featuring creators and athletes led by a surprise guest coach from the NBA. The three-day festival will highlight the intersection of basketball and culture through global street food and live entertainment.

International talent continues to play a major role in the festival’s identity. Teams and players have travelled from Tokyo, Manila, Auckland, China and the USA, adding to its reputation as the leading streetball festival in the Asia Pacific region. With participation in basketball at an all-time high in Australia, the timing for this expansion could not be better.

Built from Passion and Community

Summer Jam has always been driven by its local roots. Co-founder Daniel Ella said, “We grew up dreaming of the NBA, so we made our own, in our backyard.” Ella added that the festival celebrates the love of the game and the community that surrounds it.

Co-founder Eamon Larman Ripon shared the same vision. “What started as a single event in Melbourne has grown into a national and now, global movement. Summer Jam is about breaking down barriers, creating opportunities, and showing that streetball in Australia can stand shoulder to shoulder with the world.”

Supported by Jordan Brand and Foot Locker, Summer Jam continues to champion equality. The event hosts the world’s largest women’s streetball prize purse. Women’s participation is rising quickly across the country, and the festival sits at the forefront of this growth.

Ticket Information and What to Expect

Early Bird tickets for the Summer Jam Championships go on sale on Tuesday, 2nd December 2025. First Release General Admission and VIP tickets open from Monday, 8th December 2025. Given previous years sold out in minutes, fans are encouraged to secure their tickets early.

The Championships will deliver packed crowds, slam dunk highlights, surprise guests and creator moments similar to last year’s viral appearance from Drake. With basketball continuing to rise across the country, this event is set to be one of the standout experiences of the 2026 summer.

Event Details

Summer Jam Tour 2026

Brisbane: Sunday 18th January 2026
Perth: Saturday 24th January 2026
Melbourne: Monday 26th January 2026
Sydney: Saturday 31st January 2026

Summer Jam Championships 2026

Location: Peanut Farm Reserve, St Kilda, Melbourne
Dates: 20th to 22nd February 2026
Tickets: Early Bird from 2nd December 2025, First Release from 8 December 2025
Website: summerjam.com.au