Mikaylee “Miki” Martin: Putting in the One Percenters

At just 14 years old, Mikaylee (Miki) Martin has already carved out a reputation as one of Cairns’ most dedicated young basketballers. With a resume stacked full of state and national appearances, Miki’s journey is defined by grit, determination, and a love for the game that keeps her pushing harder every season. 

Her impressive basketball journey so far includes: 

• U12 Cairns Corals Team – QLD State Championships, Townsville (2020) 

• U12 Cairns Corals Team – QLD State Championships, Logan (2021) 

• U12 Cairns Dolphins Team – QLD State Championships, Brisbane (2022) 

• 10–12 Years Peninsula Team – QLD School Basketball Championships, Townsville (2023) 

• U14 Cairns Dolphins Team – QLD State Championships, Toowoomba (2023) 

• 10–12 Years Queensland Team – Australian School Nationals, Perth (2023) 

• U14 Cairns Dolphins Team – Australian Club Nationals, Melbourne (2023) 

• U14 Cairns Dolphins Team – QLD State Championships, Rockhampton (2024) 

• U15 Queensland Team – Southern Cross Challenge, Melbourne (2025) 

• U16 Cairns Dolphins Team – QLD State Championships, Gold Coast (2025) 

• 13/16 Years Peninsula Team – QLD School Basketball Championships, Mackay (2025) 

• U16 Queensland Team – U16 Nationals, Bendigo (2025) 

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Fresh off her most recent experience at the U16 Basketball Nationals in Bendigo, Miki described the opportunity as a turning point in her development: 

“I recently returned from the U16 Nationals in Bendigo which was an eye-opening experience to the different structures and skills of basketball. The opportunity to play as a bottom age player was so special and I was so grateful for the experience. I’m hoping to make the team again next year to represent Queensland.” 

Miki credits her time with The Female Co’s Emerging Athlete Program for shaping her approach both on and off the court: 

“My experience in the emerging team with The Female Co impacted me as an athlete in so many ways, including my knowledge of nutrition, managing my load to prevent injury, understanding the ‘why and how’ in being a high-performance athlete, and my on-court performance in relation to speed and strength.” 

Her mum, Carly, describes Miki as the ultimate workhorse: 

“Miki is a dedicated and passionate basketball player who has put in countless hours of extra training over the years to continually improve her skills. She has a strong awareness of the importance of strength development and nutrition, ensuring she takes care of all aspects of her performance both on and off the court. Miki is committed to doing all the ‘one percenters’, the small, consistent actions that make a big difference at the highest levels of sport. Miki is the ultimate workhorse, bringing grit, determination, and reliability to every game. Known for her exceptional work ethic, she consistently gives 110% in training and competition. Miki is a great team player who supports those around her, embodying the values of high-performance sport through her discipline, humility, and relentless drive.” 

Looking ahead, Miki’s goals are crystal clear: 

• Short-term: make the U16 Queensland team again in 2026. 

• Long-term: secure a full scholarship to play college basketball in America after graduating Year 12. 

With her relentless work ethic, passion, and commitment to growth, Miki is a name to watch, in basketball and beyond.