Debuting in the Central League of the then Australian Basketball Association (ABA) at just 16 years of age, Steve Pilkington was still attending Wirreanda High School while fighting to earn the respect of legendary coach Don Shipway and sharing the court with South Australian basketball greats Mark Davis, Scott Ninnis, Brett Wheeler and Shane Ahmat.

Growing up in Adelaide’s southern suburbs, Morphett Vale Stadium became far more than a basketball venue. It offered Steve a place of belonging, opportunity and purpose—an alternative to walking the streets, and the place where a lifelong passion for the game was forged.

His senior playing career began with a championship in 1997 as a rookie with the South Adelaide Panthers. Fittingly, it ended with another championship in 2014 as a Woodville Warrior, bookending an outstanding career with team success.

Eligible for a British passport through his father, Steve discovered an alternative pathway to pursue basketball abroad. Leaving Australia for the first time as a boy, he returned home a man. His time competing across the British and English basketball leagues broadened not only his experience on the court, but also his perspective on life, relationships and the power of genuine connections.

Soon after hanging up the boots, Steve transitioned from player to coach, launching 2Hoops Basketball. What began as a passion project has grown into a thriving full-time business, helping athletes of all ages and abilities develop their skills, confidence and love for the game.

Today, the 2Hoops community extends far beyond individual player development. With junior and senior teams now proudly representing the 2Hoops brand, Steve has created a community where players, coaches and families all belong. It also gives him the chance to lace up each week alongside fellow coaches and parents—proof that basketball has never been just about the game, but the people you share it with.

In this episode of Courtside Coffee Catch-Up, Steve reflects on the highs and challenges of his playing career at home and overseas, the lessons basketball has taught him, the importance of surrounding yourself with good people, the power of genuine connections and the infamous story of bringing down the ring at Morphett Vale Stadium.

This is a conversation about resilience, relationships, leadership, community and leaving the game better than you found it.