Brent's Unrivaled chance to make it to the top

• Unrivaled features eight teams and starts in Miami on January 5
• The competition also includes Australian trio Alanna Smith, Ezi Magbegor and Bec Allen
• Gorris has been the Australian Opals performance coach for two Olympic Games and one World Cup

He's coached some of Australia's top athletes, been a part of WNBL championships and major international tournament campaigns with the Australian Opals - now performance coach Brent Gorris has signed to join Unrivaled.

A full-court three-on-three league based in Miami and started by WNBA legends Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, Unrivaled features the best female basketballers in the world and tips-off on January 5.

For Gorris, the Townsville Fire's performance and strength and conditioning coach, working in the US has always been a dream of his and it was current Opals coach Sandy Brondello who helped make it happen.

"Sandy recommended me to Susan Borchardt, Executive Vice President of Sports Science and Medicine at Unrivaled, as a candidate for a Performance Coach role. Sandy has long been aware of my aspirations to work in the United States, and I’m extremely grateful for her support and recommendation," Gorris told basketball.com.au.

"Following several phone conversations with Susan, along with sharing my resume and examples of my athlete programming, I was formally offered a position with Unrivaled in October.

"My role involves working with the development pool, a group of athletes on standby to step into team rosters due to injuries or unforeseen circumstances.

"I’m genuinely excited to work with the best of the best, conducting performance testing and daily training with athletes I’ve watched compete at the highest level. I’m looking forward to working closely with my six athletes and showcasing the impact I can make on their performance through targeted strength and conditioning."

It's all a dream come true for Goriss, who has loved basketball since he was a child and the sport has played a major part with his family, considering his brother is Opals assistant and current Canberra Capitals coach Paul Gorris.

"I have a genuine love for the game. I grew up playing basketball, and it has always been a constant in my life," he said.

"The opportunity to combine my profession with the sport I’m passionate about makes this experience feel less like work and more like purpose. I particularly enjoy working with female athletes.

"Their work ethic, commitment, and appreciation for the energy and intent I bring to each session continually drive me to improve as a coach."

While Gorris is still pinching himself at the opportunity to work at Unrivaled, it's another step towards his future goals.

"I’ve been fortunate to contribute to two Olympic Games, a World Cup, and an upcoming World Cup in 2026," he said.

"Looking ahead, my long-term goal is to continue progressing at the highest level and ultimately secure a role within the WNBA or NBA."