Welcome to Cross Over Basketball
Welcome to Cross Over Basketball, a basketball coaching programme based in Otago and Southland. Founded in 2023 by former Otago Nuggets player Tim Gillan, Cross Over began with four players in a skills programme at Mosgiel Memorial Park Gym. Today, we deliver over 30 hours of coaching each week for players of all ages and abilities. From beginners to elite athletes, Cross Over Basketball supports player development at every stage of the journey.
Our Vision
We inspire a love for basketball while helping players unlock their potential. Our supportive, high-performance environment fosters skills, confidence, and character on and off the court.
What We Offer
Cross Over Basketball provides a clear development pathway for players of all ages and abilities across Otago and Southland.
Start → Develop → Compete → Represent
Skills Programme – Small-group coaching focused on core basketball skills and confidence. Ideal for beginners and developing players.
Jump Programme – Athletic performance training to improve speed, power, and vertical jump.
Girls & Boys Academy (U10, U12, U14, U16, U18) – High-performance training for committed athletes, with skill development, decision-making, and game IQ at the core.
Representative Teams – Selected players progress to represent Cross Over Basketball at regional, national, and international tournaments.
3x3 Summer Competitions – Fast-paced competition with on-court coaching and mentorship, bridging training and game play.
Ballers Clinic Holiday Programmes – School holiday clinics delivered alongside Otago Nuggets and Southern Hoiho professional players.
Why Choose Cross Over Basketball?
Our experienced coaches and comprehensive programmes make Cross Over Basketball the top choice for players seeking improvement. Whether learning basics, enhancing athleticism, or aspiring for representation, we provide the support and opportunities needed to succeed. Cross Over Basketball is more than coaching; it's a community driven by respect, leadership, and a love for the game. Join us and be part of a legacy inspiring players across the region and beyond.
Meet the Coaches Who Inspire Young Athletes
Tim Gillan
Head Coach & Founder
Tim’s basketball journey spans elite playing and coaching levels. He represented Otago, played for New Zealand in Under-18 and Under-20, and competed in the Sydney Youth Olympics. Tim also won two New Zealand CBL titles, now focusing on coaching with a supportive culture where players make great decisions both on and off the court.
Elise Carline
Head Coach, Girls Academy
Elise, a rising star in New Zealand basketball, represented Otago from age 11 and played for the Junior Tall Ferns. She debuted for the Southern Hoiho in 2024. Elise’s coaching focuses on building players' confidence through skills demonstration and helping them improve. Her message: “Believe in yourself, put in the hard work, and never give up.”
Matthew Bardsley
Defensive Specialist & Coach
Matthew, a defensive specialist, helped the Otago Nuggets win NBL championships. As a coach at Cross Over Basketball, he specializes in defense and mindset development for players. He leads sessions in the Skills Programme, Under 15 Academy, and 3X3 Competition, helping athletes excel on both ends of the court.
Mike Spencer
Strength & Conditioning Coach
With 23 years of experience, Mike specializes in basketball performance, focusing on strength, explosiveness, and injury resilience. As the Strength & Conditioning Coach for the Otago Nuggets and Southern Hoiho, Mike joined Cross Over Basketball in 2023 to lead the Jump Programme and help athletes reach their peak performance.