The Adelaide Lightning reveals rebrand, announces new CEO
The Adelaide Lightning has revealed a new visual brand for itself, while sharing that Melanie MacGillivray is now the CEO.
The announcement:
The Adelaide Lightning, in partnership with the South Australian Government, has today announced global sport and commercial executive Melanie MacGillivray as their new CEO and unveiled a bold new brand.
The Adelaide Lightning, South Australia’s only WNBL team, received critical funding from the South Australian Government earlier this year to ensure the continuity and growth of the club and elite basketball.
Leading the new-look Adelaide Lightning is US-born now South Australian local Melanie MacGillivray who brings extensive experience across sports, media and digital fitness working across with the Major League Soccer, Bundesliga International, Women’s Professional Soccer and South-Australian fitness magnate Sweat.
The five-time championship-winning club now enters a new chapter with a strong legacy and electric future with the visual update acting as a platform for growth, performance and storytelling.
“This new brand represents a powerful new era for the Adelaide Lightning—one that celebrates who we are, where we’re from, and where we’re going. From grassroots pathways to elite performance, we’re committed to building something that South Australia can be proud of.” Ms MacGillivray said.
Community engagement across the state is a core priority of the club, with the Adelaide Lightning set to be out in the community throughout preseason and aligning their community engagement strategy with Basketball South Australia’s female participation strategy.
Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing Emily Bourke MLC said: “Our Government stepped in to preserve the legacy of the Adelaide Lightning and empower girls and women to add their own chapter to the state’s sporting history and basketball future.”
“It’s great to see the club working to deliver these community-based programs which will encourage and support the next generation and provide a pathway to the elite level.”
“We can’t wait to see junior players learn from the team’s stars at events and clinics held across South Australia, including in our regions—and help inspire the whole state to get behind the team.”
Ms MacGillivray added: “At the heart of this next chapter is community. We want to ensure that young people across the state see themselves reflected in this team—on the court, in the stands, and through our programs.”
“We’ll be investing in initiatives that connect players with schools, clubs, and local leaders, creating opportunities for deeper engagement and long-term impact. The Lightning belongs to South Australia, and we want every fan to feel part of this journey.”
Head coach of the Adelaide Lightning Kerryn Mitchell said: “It’s so exciting to build a team that reflects the energy of this new brand and its new chapter.”
“The Lightning has such a strong legacy producing some of the basketball greats like Rachel Sporn, Erin Phillips and Steph Talbot. The rebrand honours the past and transports this beloved team into the future to inspire girls and women to chase their dreams.”
Basketball icon and Special Advisor to the Adelaide Lightning, Tess Madgen said: “I can’t wait to see girls and boys from around South Australia wearing this new merch and lighting up at games. We have such diverse and incredible talent here in South Australia and the roster, our new home at the State Basketball Centre and this new brand really cements the bright future of the Adelaide Lightning.”
“I grew up watching Rachel Sporn and the Adelaide Lightning on TV, and it remains one of my favourite childhood memories. You cannot be what you cannot see—and with the Lightning’s brand relaunch, the step-up in professionalism from the organisation, a new home at the State Basketball Centre, and incredible South Australian role models like Steph Talbot, Tayla Brazel, and Jasmine Fejo, I’m so excited for the next generation of young girls to aspire to wear the Lightning jersey and continue its proud legacy.”
With Memberships for the 2025/26 season now on sale, Ms MacGillivray said: “We’re here to stay and now we ask the community to show their support, get behind us, get your memberships and be a part of creating the future together under this new brand.”
“As we relaunch with purpose, our focus is on growing commercial partnerships, deepening our connection with fans, and building a club culture that inspires the next generation of female athletes.”
Source: Adelaide Lightning + Isentia
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Adelaide Lightning
Emily Bourke MLC
Melanie MacGillicray
Tess Magden
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