Recap: Blacktown Storm Basketball’s Nostalgic Media Day at Kevin Betts Stadium
At Logan James Creative, we love capturing the stories and histories that shape sports culture. Recently, we had the honor of photographing the Blacktown Storm Basketball teams at the iconic Kevin Betts Stadium. This shoot was especially meaningful, as it marked the final season for the Blacktown Storm playing their home games on this beloved court before they move to a new facility in 2026. The creative brief we received from the City of Blacktown Basketball Association (CBBA) was clear: create a moody, nostalgic vibe that paid tribute to the decades of history this court holds for the Mount Druitt community and all those who’ve played on its hardwood.
A Court With History
For those familiar with Kevin Betts Stadium, it’s more than just a court – it’s a place steeped in history. Generations of athletes have come through here, competing on the same floor, and those who’ve played on this court hold a deep-rooted connection to it. The stadium has seen it all – from local legends making their mark to youth teams growing and developing over the years. For the Blacktown Storm, this court has been the heart of their community. But with the new facility set to open in 2026, this season represents a bittersweet farewell to a place that holds so many memories. That’s where our team came in – we were tasked with creating a set of images that captured not only the nostalgia of the court but also the timeless connection between the community and the game of basketball. This was a true milestone moment, and we wanted to make sure the imagery reflected that emotional weight.
A Moody, Nostalgic Creative Direction
The creative direction for this photoshoot was all about capturing the essence of the stadium’s long history, mixed with a touch of moody nostalgia. With a strong focus on lighting and atmosphere, we used shadows and bold contrasts to evoke a sense of reverence for the court. The Blacktown Storm senior teams were photographed in a way that made them feel like they were not just players of today, but part of a long legacy that stretches back decades. We intentionally kept the mood of the shoot more subdued, using darker tones and raw, gritty elements to convey the sense that this was a place that had witnessed countless moments of triumph, determination, and growth. The atmosphere was intentionally immersive, almost as if you could feel the echoes of past games lingering in the air.
Honoring the Community
What made this shoot truly special was the connection to the Mount Druitt community. Kevin Betts Stadium has served as a central gathering point for the diverse community here in Sydney’s West. It’s a space where young athletes could dream big, where families came together to cheer on their local heroes, and where the spirit of the game united everyone. Our team worked closely with the CBBA marketing team to ensure the images reflected not only the physicality of the game but the cultural and emotional connection the players and fans have to this iconic space.
From the first shot to the last, we made sure to weave the story of this court into the final images. We wanted the players to feel like they were part of something much bigger than just a game – they were part of the history of Kevin Betts Stadium, and these images would immortalize that.
The Final Product: A Perfect Tribute
When the media day came to a close, we couldn’t help but feel the weight of what we had just captured. The images we delivered were exactly what the CBBA team had hoped for – emotional, evocative, and a perfect tribute to the history of the Blacktown Storm and their iconic home court. Whether it was a slow-motion shot of a player stepping onto the court or a dramatic shot under the stadium lights, the final photos told the story of a team and a community that has come together on this court for many years.
A New Era on the Horizon
As the Blacktown Storm looks toward the future and the opening of their new facility in 2026, these images will serve as a timeless reminder of the chapter that’s now closing. For those who’ve played at Kevin Betts Stadium, these photos will be more than just pictures – they’ll be memories captured in time, honoring the legacy of a stadium that’s seen it all.
If you're looking for a Sydney sports photography team that can capture the heart and soul of your club, we at Logan James Creative are here to help. Whether it’s a nostalgic shoot honoring a long-standing tradition or fresh images capturing the future, we’re committed to delivering stunning photos that tell your story.
