McKinnon Cougars represented in Big V Select clash
McKinnon Basketball will be proudly represented on Tuesday night, with Mitch Barry and Mason Rogers selected for the Big V Championship Select Team.
Announced by Basketball Victoria as part of the China Select Series, the Big V Select game brings together leading performers from across the competition for a showcase clash against the Team China Under 18 Men.
The selections of Mitch Barry and Mason Rogers reflect the strength of McKinnon’s Championship programs, recognising the impact both have made within the Big V competition across playing and coaching roles.
Mitch Barry’s selection comes following a strong start to the Big V 2026 season, where he has continued to lead the Cougars with consistency and control. The experienced guard is currently averaging 14.7 points, 5 assists, 3.7 rebounds and 2.3 steals per game, underlining his impact at both ends of the floor.
“It’s an absolute privilege to be selected and I am extremely grateful to be one of the select few to be chosen for this opportunity,” Barry said.
“I’m looking forward to showcasing my skills on a new stage and getting the chance to play against another country. I just want to enjoy it, have some fun and play basketball.”
Having spent years competing against many of his Select teammates, he is also embracing the chance to come together in a new environment.
“There’s a mutual respect across the league, but actually getting to play with those guys instead of against them will be awesome,” Mitch Barry said.
On the sideline, Mason Rogers has been named as an assistant coach for the Big V Select Team, continuing his involvement at the top end of the competition following a championship winning 2025 season and his appointment as McKinnon’s Championship Women’s Head Coach.
“It is a fantastic opportunity to represent the league more broadly, not just McKinnon, and to contribute to a high performance environment alongside some of the best players and coaches in Big V,” Mason Rogers said.
Mason Rogers also highlighted the opportunity for growth within the experience.
“This will be an invaluable opportunity to test ourselves against an international opponent and gain further insight into the athleticism, pace and style of the professional men’s game,” Mason Rogers said.
“Beyond the on court learnings, I am also looking forward to building strong relationships across the Big V network and continuing to grow through the experience.”
Tuesday night’s clash brings together the best of the Big V competition against the Team China Under 18 Men, with McKinnon represented both on the floor and on the bench.