Lauretta Claus (NSW), Patricia Nicholls (NSW), Pamela Hamilton-Smith (QLD), Adam McKay (VIC), Phil Driscoll (NSW) and Francis Rodriguez (WA) were celebrated for contributions to the game, community and industry.
Claus, who was an Australian representative in the live score review personnel for the Paris 2024 Olympics received Member of Order of Australia (AM) acknowledgement for significant service to international and national basketball as a statistician.
Five other professionals with contributions to basketball were recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).
Statistician Patricia Nicholls received an OAM for her work over three decades across the NBL, FIBA and Olympic Games Tournaments. Nicholls was a part of the team that delivered basketball at the Sydney 2000 Olympics.
Basketball Queensland legend Pam Hamilton-Smith was acknowledged for her career as a player and coach. Hamilton-Smith won U16 & U18 National Championship titles with Queensland and has dedicated over 40 years to coaching.
The late Adam McKay received a fitting acknowledgement for his work in basketball and for founding Helping Hoops, a program created to remove barriers for children and young people to play the game.
Illawarra Hawks medical veteran Phil Driscoll received an OAM in the General Division for his long-standing role as Head of Medical Services at the NBL club.
Frank Rodriguez from Northern Western Australia was awarded in the same category. Rodriguez had an incredible range of contributions to his community including KNX Basketball in Kununarra.
The 2025 Australia Day Honours list recognises and celebrates 732 Australians, including awards in the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards and recognition for distinguished and conspicuous service.
List of 2025 Australia Day Honours awards can be accessed here.
