Australian underwear brand Step One has signed on as a Supporting Partner of Ford Aussie Hoops – a national grassroots basketball program for children aged between five and ten.
The partnership comes at a robust time for basketball and participation across the country with recent AusPlay data detailing that over 350,000 children play basketball.
Ford Aussie Hoops is often the introduction point for young participants and the evolution of nation-wide programs, led by the state and territories is on the horizon.
“At Step One, we’re passionate about movement, confidence, and supporting the next generation,” founder and CEO Greg Taylor said. “Partnering with Ford Aussie Hoops was a natural fit - it’s a program focused on grassroots development, inclusivity, and getting young Australians active through basketball.
“That aligns perfectly with our values: promoting a healthy lifestyle, empowering from the ground up, and making a real impact in the community.”
The move also comes as over a dozen NBL players across Australia are current shareholders in Step One, which is publicly listed on the ASX.
Since being launched in 2017, the Australian owned brand has connected with a network of athlete investors, including 2025 Asia Cup captain Will Magnay and gold medal game hero Xavier Cooks. Other stars including Nathan Sobey, DJ Vasiljevic and Alice Kunek from the Seven Consulting Opals have been involved.
“Our relationship with Australian Basketball has grown steadily over the past few years. It began with many NBL players choosing to wear Step One and even becoming shareholders in the brand,” Taylor said.
“That connection sparked broader conversations about how we could support the sport more holistically. Partnering with Ford Aussie Hoops - the foundation of basketball development in Australia - felt like the natural next step. It made perfect sense for us to be involved at the grassroots level.”
Taylor said this is more than a sponsorship, calling it a long-term partnership built on shared values.
“We see this as an opportunity to support and inspire thousands of young athletes nationwide.
“If we can help build confidence in young kids and support their passion for sport while introducing them to our brand along the way, then we see that as a win-win. We’re excited to grow with Aussie Hoops and help shape the next generation of Australian athletes.”
Basketball Australia EGM of game development David Simpson said the support from Step One for its Ford Aussie Hoops program will contribute significantly to getting more kids playing basketball.
“We are thrilled to welcome Step One as a part of Ford Aussie Hoops. Their commitment to community, building confidence and getting people moving aligns perfectly with our vision for grassroots basketball,” said Simpson.