We proudly congratulate Kim Perry (Player) and Matthew Beattie (Referee) on their induction into the 2025 Basketball NSW Hall of Fame, recognised at the Basketball NSW Hall of Fame Dinner.
This prestigious honour recognises outstanding contribution, excellence, and long-term service to basketball in NSW. Kim and Matthew’s impact on the game extends well beyond the court and reflects the very best of our basketball community.
Read below the Basketball NSW Hall of Fame dedications for each inductee.
Kim Perry (Player)
Basketball NSW Hall of Fame Dedication
Kim Perry earned a reputation as one of Australia’s finest basketball players, representing her country with great distinction as a member of the Pearls, the national team for women with an intellectual impairment.
Known by all as ‘Kimbo’ and blessed with height and athleticism, the talented post player was a standout from a young age. Part of a trio of NSW players selected to join the Pearls, she would become a cornerstone of the unit for an extended period of time. Over many years, Kim parlayed her physical advantages into becoming a feared pivot with an extensive repertoire of moves. She was a reliable scorer, rebounder & defender and as time went on she constantly improved her skills, a testament to her tremendous work ethic.
Ultimately, such was the respect in which she was held, Kim was appointed captain in the later stages of her career, a role she embraced with humility and strength. Kim wasn’t just a leader in uniform, she was a player advocate, a team motivator, and a constant positive presence in the Pearls’ environment. Whether it was offering quiet support to teammates or sharing thoughtful contributions in team meetings, she helped shape the off-court culture of the team, bringing joy, unity, and kindness to every gathering.
Kim’s ability to stay at the elite level for close to 20 years speaks to her passion for the game and her unwavering dedication to representing her country. Her legacy lives on not just in the wins and the milestones, but in the memories and friendships she helped foster within the team.
A champion athlete. A respected leader. And most of all, a role model for what it means to play with heart. Kim Perry’s elevation to the BNSW Hall of Fame is well deserved.
Matthew Beattie (Referee)
Basketball NSW Hall of Fame Dedication
Continuing the tradition of outstanding referees to be honoured by Basketball NSW, Matthew Beattie distinguished himself as one of the game’s top officials in a career where he performed admirably both in Australia and overseas.
The product of St George Association who would later become a member of both Sutherland and Bankstown, Matthew’s hard work and dedication to the sport saw him trusted with officiating in several important games and tournaments throughout his time as a referee.
After climbing the ranks quickly, he would go on to officiate 218 games in the National Basketball League, including three NBL Grand Final series, before retiring from the competition in 2018. He also contributed his expertise to the Women’s National Basketball League, officiating in 32 WNBL games.
Awarded his FIBA License in 2009, Matthew made an impact at international level, officiating at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane, the 2017 FIBA Under-19 Men’s World Cup in Egypt, the 2017 FIBA Asia Senior Men’s Cup in Beirut, the 2011 FIBA Women’s World Championships in Chile and the Stankovic Cup in 2013. He even refereed at the 2015 NBA Summer League, showing the respect in which he was held globally.
Regarded as a fair, consistent, and dedicated official, Matthew Beattie’s elevation to the BNSW Hall of Fame is recognition of a man who left a terrific legacy in the sport.
