3 February 2025
Walking out for the 2024 ADF Basketball grand final, Queensland representative and 61-year-old mother of eight Air Force Corporal Desiree Stafford had eyes on one opponent.
On the other side of the court was her youngest daughter, 21-year-old Aircraftwoman Pani Davidson, who was chasing glory for NSW.
From the opening tip-off it was on: mum v daughter, state v state, and family bragging rights on the line.
Corporal Stafford knew they were up against it. NSW had been the team to beat all tournament, having gone through the competition undefeated on the RAAF Williams court late last year.
The Blues started strong in the final, racing away to a 17-point lead by the end of the first quarter.
The Maroons fought hard to close the deficit but NSW were too strong, closing the game 72–41 and becoming women’s champions.
“Basketball has always been a part of my family's life,” Corporal Stafford said.
“I often joke that my family is like a basketball team, with eight children – six girls and two boys – all involved in the sport.”
For mother and daughter, basketball has not only strengthened their athletic abilities but also their relationship.
“Looking across the court at my daughter it reminded me of our one-on-one backyard scrimmages,” Corporal Stafford said.
But all the glory went to her daughter, who was named rookie of the year and MVP.
“Beating mum’s team was just an added bonus,” Aircraftwoman Davidson said.
NSW also dominated the men’s competition, going through the tournament undefeated.
The Blues then beat the ACT team in the final, 73-41.
NSW men’s team coach Army Corporal Peter Barber was able to rest his starters during the pool stage as by half time they had a decent lead, and rotated new players to get more game time.
“Seeing both our women’s and men’s teams go through the tournament undefeated was great and hopefully we can replicate it next year,” Corporal Barber said.
