Keanu's departure reshapes NBL1 Central race

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The NBL1 Central Unleashed podcast has returned for 2026 – and it’s already stirring debate.

With roster shake-ups across both the men’s and women’s competitions, coaching changes at powerhouse clubs, and MVPs departing the league, Episode 1 of 2026 dives straight into the biggest ins and outs ahead of Round 1.

🎧 Watch / Listen Below

Rigoni Returns – And Sturt Reset

The headline story from pre-season is the return of Sturt’s Jacob Rigoni after a full year sidelined with an ACL injury.

Rigoni joins the show to discuss:

• The mental battle of rehab
• Rebuilding strength and movement
• Adjusting to a new coach in Jacob Doria
• Sturt’s refreshed system
• Why the Sabres believe they can compete at the business end

After a turbulent 2025 campaign, Sturt enter the season with new personnel, new structure and renewed belief.

Women’s Competition – Massive Turnover

The women’s competition has seen significant roster movement.

Key departures include:

• Olivia Levicki
• Jazz Fijii
• KJ James
• Maddie Freer (switching clubs)

The episode breaks down which losses hurt most – and which arrivals could shift the title race.

• Morgan Yager’s move.
• Holly Forbes’ impact.
• North Adelaide’s new core.

It’s a reshuffle year – and it opens the door for contenders to emerge.

Men’s Competition – The MVP Leaves

On the men’s side, the biggest headline is clear. Keanu Rasmussen is gone.

The reigning MVP departs West Adelaide, leaving a massive void in the Bearcats’ structure.

Other major movements include:

• Jordan Forbes switching clubs
• F.A. Abogidi’s departure from Centrals
• Jeremy Smith returning to South Adelaide

The episode tackles the central question:

Who benefits most from the movement – and which club is now favourite?

Early Premiership Favourites?

• Forestville reload.
• Sturt retool.
• Centrals adjust.
• South Adelaide rebuild around star power.

It’s wide open – but not for long. Next week, the podcast ranks every team from 1 to 10.

No safety nets. No hedging.

🎙 What To Expect This Season

NBL1 Central Unleashed will continue to deliver:

• Weekly ladder predictions
• Insider roster discussion
• Player interviews
• Honest assessments (even when uncomfortable)
• The best analysis in the league

If you follow NBL1 Central closely, this is your weekly must-listen.

🎧 Tune in above and stay across all NBL1 Central coverage at basketball.com.au

About NBL1 Central Unleashed Hosts

Chris “Caldi” Caldicott is a long-time basketball lifer and co-host of NBL1 Central Unleashed. Having been involved in South Australian club basketball since 1993 and previously serving as an assistant coach in NBL1 Central, Caldi brings decades of experience and strong relationships throughout the league. His insider perspective helps the podcast deliver fast-paced conversations, behind-the-scenes insight, and relatable stories about the players, coaches, and clubs that make NBL1 Central one of Australia’s most passionate basketball communities.

Jake “Burf” Burfitt is the co-host of NBL1 Central Unleashed and one of the lead play-by-play commentators for the NBL1 Central league in South Australia. Having represented the state as a commentator at the NBL1 National Finals, Burf brings a professional broadcasting perspective and deep understanding of the game. With strong connections across all 10 clubs in the league, he delivers accurate insight and informed analysis on the players, teams, and storylines shaping the competition. Known for his calm, factual approach, Burf provides the perfect balance to co-host Caldi’s explosive energy, helping drive thoughtful and engaging basketball conversations each episode.