Oscar Becomes First Aussie to Win NBA Math Hoops Global Championship

Credit: Tatenda Chibika, Reporter, ABC

Earlier this year, 10-year-old Oscar swapped his classroom for the bright lights of New York City — and returned home as the first Australian to win the NBA Math Hoops Global Championship.

Representing The Huddle and teaming up with fellow competitor Kingston, the duo — competing under the name The Rip City Roos — went head-to-head with 24 other of the world’s best teams. Over three days of competition, they showcased sharp maths skills, basketball strategy, and plenty of teamwork to claim the championship trophy.

“I was actually speechless,” Oscar said. “For a kid who always talks about basketball and maths, I didn’t have anything to say!”

NBA Math Hoops is a hands-on, curriculum-aligned program that combines the excitement of basketball with the problem-solving of mathematics. Players draft NBA and WNBA stars to build their teams, then solve timed maths problems to “take shots” and score points. It’s an engaging way to strengthen numeracy, strategic thinking, and collaboration skills — and, as Oscar proved, it can take you all the way to an international stage.

Oscar first discovered Math Hoops in his school maths lessons.

“It was so fun combining my passions — basketball and maths,” he said.

His class, teachers, and peers played a big role in his success, with many helping him prepare before his trip.

Alongside Kingston, The Rip City Roos kept their cool under pressure, outsmarting and outscoring opponents from around the globe. For both players, the championship was more than just a game — it was a chance to learn, connect, and experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

“If you don’t make it, that doesn’t matter — at least you learned,” said one of the student competitors. “And you tried.”

The Huddle is proud to deliver the NBA Math Hoops program in Australia, giving young people like Oscar the chance to develop essential life skills in a fun and engaging way. His achievement is a testament to what’s possible when sport meets STEM, and when young people are supported to aim high.

Congratulations, Oscar and Kingston, on bringing the Global Championship trophy home to Australia — and for inspiring the next generation of Math Hoopers.

Learn more about NBA Math Hoops and how The Huddle brings sport and STEM together in classrooms across Victoria by clicking HERE.