Business
Perth Bears ‘overwhelmed’ by membership response
On Wednesday, primarily across Western Australia and New South Wales, rugby league enthusiasts desperate to join the National Rugby League’s newest expansion club, the Perth Bears, finally got their opportunity to secure one of two foundation membership packages.
Fans can either purchase a $79 foundation membership package – which includes merchandise, club offers and early priority access to secure 2027 match-based memberships – or a premium foundation member “Club 2027 membership” package for $3000, headlined by a made-to-order exclusive varsity jacket and limited edition medallion, along with early priority access to secure a match-based membership.
Devices were refreshed feverishly across the country such was the demand, as the Bears, a marriage of equals between WA and the North Sydney Bears, begin final preparations ahead of their entry into the NRL from next season.
The demand led to online reports of lengthy queues – with the overall interest in both packages taking the club aback, according to Mr De Ceglie.
“We have been overwhelmed by the response and the demand,” he told Business News.
“We don’t want to talk specific numbers right now, but it’s fair to say it’s been at least triple what we expected in the first 24-hours.
“We’re well on our way to being an absolute membership powerhouse of the NRL and the WA sporting landscape too.”
For context, the Dolphins, which entered the NRL back in 2023, had 28,594 members in 2025.
The Dolphins have been able to leverage off the existing Redcliffe Dolphins, a traditional powerhouse of the Hostplus Cup (formerly Queensland Cup) in terms of rusted-on local supporter base, bar, gaming and on-field facilities.
HBF Park in East Perth, the Bears’ home ground, has a rectangular sport attendance capacity of approximately 20,441.
Rationale behind $3000 pricetag explained
Predominantly on social media, there were some sections of prospective Perth Bears members who were less than impressed with the premium foundation membership price tag – with some labelling the club “out of touch” with the common fan or even holding a view that the club was dismissive of rising cost-of-living pressures impacting households.
Mr De Ceglie reiterated to Business News that the Bears were grateful for all supporters and the club anticipated leading into the launch that the premium foundation member package was only likely to attract a distinct segment of supporters.
“We anticipated only a small number of fans would choose this option and it is so far tracking very much in line with our target,” he said.
“We’re very grateful for all our supporters.
“The premium membership pricing was benchmarked against what the Dolphins used for its similar Glasshouse Club membership when they recently launched into the NRL.
“We also benchmarked it, taking into account inflation, with memberships like the Harbour Masters used by the Fremantle Dockers when they entered the AFL.
“I think it’s important to remember that the Perth Bears are a non-profit club and every bit of revenue we create goes back into the club and growing the greatest game of all in Western Australia.”
Lessons from online process
While technical difficulties on the club’s website during the membership launch were not ideal, Mr De Ceglie pointed to the demand playing a role in it.
“The technical difficulties were two-fold — mainly because of the unprecedented demand and also because of some issues with our e-commerce provider,” he said.
“We keep planning for the extra demand, but it’s always so much more than even we have expected.
“I think the lesson for the Perth Bears, and the greater sporting world, is that demand for NRL in Western Australia so much bigger than any of us anticipated.
“We are also grateful for the understanding and support from our fans, as well as their patience.
“We’re working with the e-commerce provider to ensure anyone impacted by faults has their issue resolved as soon as possible.
“It says a lot about the passion of the Bears fans that everyone has been really supportive.”
CEO says Bears could one day rival Broncos’ commercial success
The Bears have already announced their inaugural jerseys will be unveiled prior to the Melbourne Storm-Manly Sea Eagles match (1pm) at HBF Park on August 8, with those inside the stadium having the first opportunity to buy one on-site.
Mr De Ceglie said the Bears were focused on further expanding their commercial pipeline in the lead up to their 2027 debut – a commercial rise which he says could one day rival one of Australia’s wealthiest sporting brands.
“The Perth Bears continue to break commercial records across the board for not just the NRL but the national sporting landscape,” he said.
“I believe our jersey, for example, will be the most commercially successful for any sporting club in Australia.
“We want to enter the NRL in 2027 as both an economic and membership powerhouse.
“I truly believe the Perth Bears can rival the Brisbane Broncos as the most commercially successful team in the NRL.”
Formed in 1982, Brisbane are the only NRL club on the ASX, having listed on May 12 1989.
The Broncos, which have a market cap of $159.8 million, posted a net profit of $7.77 million in 2025, up from $5.71 million.
Its operating revenue rose by 20.8 per cent to $98.3 million, which included a 16.8 per cent uptick in sponsorship dollars.
As of December 31 2025, the Broncos’ total equity reached $53.5 million.
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Can Wembanyama Lead San Antonio Back in NBA Finals
NEW YORK — The 2026 NBA Finals shift back to Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night for Game 4, with the New York Knicks holding a 2-1 series lead over the San Antonio Spurs after a thrilling 115-111 Spurs victory in Game 3. Victor Wembanyama’s dominant performance has San Antonio believing it can even the series on the road, while the Knicks aim to reclaim momentum and move within one win of their first championship since 1973.
Tipoff is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET. The Knicks enter as 2.5-point favorites, with the over/under set at 216.5 points. After dropping the first two games in San Antonio, the Spurs stole Game 3 in New York behind Wembanyama’s explosive 32-point, eight-rebound, six-assist, three-block, two-steal masterpiece and strong contributions from rookie Stephon Castle.
Wembanyama’s Emergence as the Focal Point
The 7-foot-4 phenom has elevated his play as the series progresses. In Game 3, Wembanyama delivered a full 48-minute effort that turned the tide in the fourth quarter. His ability to dominate both ends of the floor has become the Spurs’ clearest path to victory. Analysts highlight his improved low-post scoring and defensive versatility as keys to sustaining pressure against New York’s physical frontcourt.
For San Antonio to force a Game 5 back home, Wembanyama must continue anchoring the offense while disrupting the Knicks’ rhythm. His presence forces constant adjustments from New York coach Tom Thibodeau, who must decide between double-teaming the big man or living with his scoring outbursts.
Knicks’ Response and Home Advantage
The Knicks, led by Jalen Brunson, have shown resilience throughout the playoffs. Brunson delivered 32 points in Game 3 but could not overcome the Spurs’ late surge. At Madison Square Garden, the Knicks will lean on their raucous home crowd and defensive identity to reassert control.
New York’s strength lies in its balanced attack and ability to grind out possessions. Players like Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges provide secondary scoring and defensive versatility that can counter San Antonio’s length. The Knicks’ 13-game playoff winning streak ended in Game 3, adding urgency to avoid falling into a 2-2 tie.
Tactical Keys and Adjustments
Coaches on both sides face critical decisions. For the Spurs, maintaining defensive intensity while feeding Wembanyama in advantageous spots will be paramount. San Antonio’s bench, including Castle’s fourth-quarter impact, must provide consistent energy on the road.
The Knicks will likely emphasize containing Wembanyama through help defense and forcing the ball out of his hands. Brunson’s pick-and-roll mastery and New York’s transition game could exploit any lapses in Spurs’ rotations. Rebounding and three-point efficiency are expected to be decisive factors in a series defined by half-court execution.
Series Context and Stakes
The Finals matchup pits two franchises with storied histories but very different recent paths. The Knicks have built a contender through smart drafting and free agency, while the Spurs have ridden Wembanyama’s meteoric rise following years of rebuilding. A Spurs victory in Game 4 would send the series back to San Antonio with renewed belief, while a Knicks win would put them firmly in the driver’s seat.
Injuries and fatigue could play roles as the series reaches its midpoint. Both teams have managed minutes carefully, but the physical toll of playoff basketball intensifies with each game. Wembanyama’s durability after a strong Game 3 performance will be closely monitored.
Broader Implications
A prolonged series benefits the NBA’s global audience, with stars like Wembanyama and Brunson showcasing the league’s future. Wembanyama’s ability to “bring victory once again” could cement his status as a generational talent capable of leading a championship charge in only his third season.
For the Knicks, closing out games at home remains a point of emphasis after letting Game 3 slip away. Thibodeau’s defensive schemes have been a hallmark of their success, and adjustments to counter San Antonio’s length will define the remainder of the series.
What to Watch in Game 4
Expect high-intensity basketball from the opening tip. Early foul trouble on either star could shift momentum quickly. Three-point shooting, particularly from the Spurs’ supporting cast, may determine if they can stretch the floor effectively against New York’s pack-line defense.
Fan atmosphere at Madison Square Garden is expected to be electric, providing the Knicks with a tangible home-court edge. The Spurs must withstand the pressure and execute their game plan to force the series back to Texas.
Analysts project a competitive contest, with models favoring the under on total points due to strong defensive showings in prior games. Individual performances from Wembanyama and Brunson will likely dictate the outcome, as both have shouldered heavy scoring loads.
Historical Parallels and Outlook
The series echoes past Finals battles where young superstars faced veteran-led squads. Wembanyama’s poise under pressure has drawn comparisons to legendary big men, while the Knicks embody a gritty, team-first approach reminiscent of championship clubs from previous eras.
Regardless of Game 4’s result, the matchup has delivered compelling basketball and highlighted the league’s parity at the highest level. As the series continues, focus will remain on execution in critical moments and the ability of star players to elevate their teams.
The Knicks hold the series advantage and home-court momentum, but Wembanyama’s Game 3 heroics have proven the Spurs are far from finished. Wednesday night’s contest promises another chapter in what has become a hard-fought, entertaining NBA Finals.
Both sides possess the talent and coaching to compete at an elite level. The outcome of Game 4 could shift the narrative dramatically, setting the stage for a memorable conclusion to the 2026 postseason. Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if Wembanyama can once again deliver a victory that keeps San Antonio’s championship hopes alive.
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