23 July 2026
Just weeks after claiming their first School Sport WA Secondary Champion Schools basketball title, the Kiara College community is celebrating again, with Year 12 student Marley Sam signing his first professional basketball contract as a Development Player with the Perth Wildcats.
Marley's Wildcats signing is a testament to the calibre of the Kiara College Specialist Basketball Program.
While many students were enjoying a well-earned break over the school holidays, Marley was taking the next step in his basketball journey, officially joining one of Australia's most successful sporting organisations.
The milestone was celebrated on the first day back of Term 3, with Perth Wildcats General Manager Danny Mills surprising Marley during a Specialist Basketball Program class, officially welcoming him to the club in front of his teammates and coaches.
"To have a player and a person of Marley's calibre, and his family, join the Wildcats organisation, we're thrilled," Mr Mills said.
"For the rest of the school, this should set an example, if you put your mind to it, if you're dedicated and you put in the hard work, good things will come.
"For Marley, this is just the beginning of his journey."
Marley's signing follows a remarkable few weeks for Kiara College's Specialist Basketball Program. The Year 12 captain led the school to its first School Sport WA Secondary Champion Schools Basketball title, scoring 60 points in a 105-96 grand final victory over perennial powerhouse Willetton Senior High School.
The historic win capped a steady rise for the program that reached the semi-finals in 2024 and the grand final in 2025, with the entire school community rallying behind the team throughout the campaign.
Marley captained the Kiara College team to their first title at the recent School Sport WA Secondary Champion Schools competition.
Basketball coach Jonathon Ryan said Marley's achievement reflected both his commitment and the opportunities created through the school's Specialist Basketball Program.
"Marley signing his contract with the Perth Wildcats fills our whole college and community with a real sense of pride," Mr Ryan said.
"The Specialist Basketball Program is focused on developing young athletes and creating opportunities for them to progress to the next level.
"Marley's progression is a testament to that pathway."
Deputy Principal Marita Rozario said the championship and Marley's signing had become defining moments for the college.
"Our Specialist Basketball Program has done far more than develop talented athletes," Ms Rozario said.
"It has given these students a sense of purpose, belonging and pride."
She said the team's success showed that success is not determined by where you come from, but by your character, your work ethic and your willingness to keep striving, inspiring future students to believe in what they could achieve.
