About Southern Suns
Southern Suns is a new initiative under the well-established, not-for-profit organization that manages the South East Melbourne Magic (SEM Magic) basketball club. As a sister club to SEM Magic, Southern Suns operates under the same leadership but with a mission to make basketball more accessible to a wider range of players.
We provide all the benefits of a professionally managed club while offering a flexible, no-fuss pathway into teams and competitions. Unlike SEM Magic, which focuses on structured player development, Southern Suns allows players to bring their own teams or form new ones with friends, making it easier to get straight into the game.
To better understand the differences between Southern Suns and SEM Magic—and to find the right club, team, and competition for your basketball journey—refer to the table below.
We provide all the benefits of a professionally managed club while offering a flexible, no-fuss pathway into teams and competitions. Unlike SEM Magic, which focuses on structured player development, Southern Suns allows players to bring their own teams or form new ones with friends, making it easier to get straight into the game.
To better understand the differences between Southern Suns and SEM Magic—and to find the right club, team, and competition for your basketball journey—refer to the table below.
✅ Pick Your Team, Coach & Competition – You’re in control! Whether you have a full team ready to go or need help forming one, you choose the competition and coach that suit you best. We take care of the logistics so you can focus on playing.
✅ Need Additional Players? We’ve Got You Covered – Missing a few teammates? No problem! We can help connect you with other players to round out your squad, ensuring you’re ready to hit the court.
✅ No Mandatory Training – We understand that life is busy. With Southern Suns, there are no compulsory training sessions—just the flexibility to play the way that works for you.
✅ Optional Development Opportunities – Want to take your game to the next level? We offer optional training sessions and coaching programs for those looking to sharpen their skills and improve their game.
✅ Need Additional Players? We’ve Got You Covered – Missing a few teammates? No problem! We can help connect you with other players to round out your squad, ensuring you’re ready to hit the court.
✅ No Mandatory Training – We understand that life is busy. With Southern Suns, there are no compulsory training sessions—just the flexibility to play the way that works for you.
✅ Optional Development Opportunities – Want to take your game to the next level? We offer optional training sessions and coaching programs for those looking to sharpen their skills and improve their game.
✅ Player Development Focus – SEM Magic is designed for players who want to continuously improve. Our structured development pathway supports athletes at every stage, from first-time players to those striving for elite performance. With expert coaching and a focus on skill progression, we help players reach their full potential.
✅ Team Selection Process – Unlike Southern Suns, where players form their own teams, SEM Magic follows a structured selection process. Players are assessed and allocated to teams each season based on experience, skill level, and ability. This ensures balanced competition and optimal development within the right playing environment.
✅ Squad Training Structure – Our unique five-tiered Squad-Based Training system brings players together in age-based training squads from Under 8s to Under 21s. These squads train collectively under the guidance of experienced Squad Coaches, allowing for high-quality coaching, peer learning, and a strong sense of teamwork.