Welcome to Cross Over Basketball
Welcome to Cross Over Basketball, founded by former Otago Nuggets player Tim Gillan in 2023 with four players in the inaugural Skills Programme at Mosgiel Memorial Park Gym, where Tim discovered his passion. We have since expanded to serve players in Otago, Taieri, North Otago, and Twizel, offering over 30 hours of coaching weekly for all ages and abilities. From beginners to elite athletes, Cross Over Basketball supports players on their 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 comprehensive programs for all skill levels:
Foundation Programme: Teaches basics and builds confidence for beginners.
Skills Programme: Small group sessions for individual skill development.
Jump Programme: Enhances athletic performance and vertical jump.
Girls-Only Academy: Supportive training for female players led by Elise Carline.
Academy Teams (U11, U13, U15, U17): High-performance training for elite players.
Rep Teams: Opportunities representing Cross Over in various tournaments.
3X3 Summer Competitions: Fast-paced competition with on-court mentorship.
Basketball Combines: Events assessing strength, agility, and skills.
Holiday Programmes and Camps: Experiences with professional players and coaches.
Low Hoop Events: Games for younger players featuring in-game dunking.
Youth Referee Development Programme: Training for young referees led by Dylan Mead.
Our Growth
What started in a local gym has evolved into a vibrant basketball community across Otago, Taieri, North Otago, and Twizel. Cross Over Basketball is the leading programme for youth development, offering pathways from grassroots to elite training and international opportunities.
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.