Games are also scheduled to be played at both St Paul’s High School and Westport High School due to the growth of the event.

The Port Macquarie Dolphins representatives form the nucleus of the Northern All Stars outfits, which contest the under 15 men’s and women’s divisions.

Brendan Sampson, Dylan Beasley and Matthew Sampson have been selected in the under 15 men’s line-up, while Jackie Kennedy, Shannon Murray, Hannah Kennedy and Annobel Starr will take the court for the women’s side.

Bec Gillespie will fly the flag in the under 17 women’s squad.

“The Powerade Pacific Coast Slam is an important event on the national basketball calendar as it helps identify developing player, coach and referee talent as well as providing valuable pathways for individuals,” NSW Basketball’s senior consultant John Martin said.

“This year, the event will feature teams from NSW Metro and NSW Country, Victoria, South Australia, Queensland, New Zealand and the Northern All Stars.

“New Zealand is once again providing sides from North and South Islands.

“In all, 40 teams will take part in both under 15’s and 17’s men’s and women’s sections.

“For the first time ever in 2009, Victoria Country left without an overall title win in all four divisions, so they’ll be out to show their dominance again.

“New Zealand captured its maiden crown, winning the under 15 men’s.

“In fact, NZ, NSW and Queensland secured all the titles leaving the once dominant Victoria and South Australia out in the cold.”

Port Macquarie Indoor Sports Stadium manager Clay Coad said the event would involve 400+ players, 120 officials, 45 referees, 10 referee coaches, 10 administration and sports trainers and a host of parents and supporters.

“In 2010, we anticipate the tournament will bring well over 1200 visitors to the Port Macquarie-Hastings region,” he explained.