A total of 64 teams from NSW, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand will compete in the event, and organisers were thrilled by another huge turnout.

South Australian cup director Bert Bargeus said the ongoing interest in the tournament made the long planning process worthwhile.

“The distance some of the teams travel to get here is phenomenal,” he said.

“It speaks to the quality of competition and players that come for this event.”

This week also serves as a launchpad for the next generation of basketball talent, with players from the under-16 and under-18 divisions able to be considered for national selection.

“One of the cup’s greatest strengths is its classification as a development tournament,” Bargeus said.

“Particularly for the younger players, many of them haven’t played at this level before — they can learn what is required of them to be the best.

“There’s so much talent on display during the week, it’s a remarkable opportunity to identify players who are ready to take it a step further.”

Some players travelled nearly 12 hours by bus for the cup, which was last year dominated by teams from Country NSW and South Australia.

Both brought another large contingent, while New Zealand and Tasmania were also well represented.

Bargeus said the huge turnout would be a welcome boost to the local economy, contributing hundreds of thousands of dollars in spending.

“We’ve enjoyed ongoing support and sponsorship from local government on both sides of the border every year we’ve been here,” he said.

“This is the 29th year we’ve been here for the cup, and it gets bigger and better each time.

“It’s good to know the event is highly valued by councils on both sides of the border.”

A number of volunteers were recognised at the ceremony for their work at the tournament, with long-time referee commissioner Albert Jackson receiving an award for 10 years of service.

Matches started at noon yesterday and will continue all week at Wodonga and the Lauren Jackson Sports Centre in Albury.