AT just 21 years of age, Ipswich Force point guard Will Mahoney is carving out a clear identity in the NBL1 North – a tough, defensive- minded combo guard with aspirations of becoming a true floor general.
A proud Spartans junior, Mahoney came through one of Queensland’s most talent-rich development systems, learning early what it takes to win consistently.
Year after year in the junior ranks, success was expected, and that foundation has shaped his approach to the senior game.
“Coming through Spartans, we were always winning or right there at the end,” Mahoney said.
“When you move into seniors, you realise just how hard it is to stay consistent across a whole season.
“That’s probably one of the biggest lessons I’ve taken with me.”
After his junior career, Mahoney made the move south to play with the North Gold Coast Seahawks, a decision driven by opportunity rather than comfort.
“I went down there because I knew they wouldn’t be as strong,” he said.
“I wanted the chance to play more minutes at NBL1 level.”
Under then head coach Colby Stefanovic (current Ipswich mens head coach), Mahoney enjoyed a strong season, developing confidence and clarity in his role.
When Colby was later appointed head coach of the Ipswich Force, the reunion felt natural.
“It was a no brainer,” Mahoney said. “I knew what I was getting from him as a coach, and I really wanted to build off what we’d already started.”
Offensively, Mahoney brings efficiency and balance. Last season, he shot 52 per cent from the field and 72 per cent from the free throw line, showing a reliable scoring touch when called upon.
Training alongside experienced guards such as Ipswich hoops mainstay Jason Ralph has accelerated Mahoney’s growth.
“Watching how those guys go about it – when to score, when to move the ball – that’s what I’m trying to transition into,” he said.
“The way he (Ralph) controls the game is second to none.”
The presence of seasoned Ipswich veterans like Ralph, Denzel Kennedy, and Kane Bishop has also been invaluable for a young roster built heavily around local juniors.
“They’ve been around the game for so long,” Mahoney said.
“You just follow in their footsteps – how they prepare, how they carry themselves.”
After a disappointing finish to the 2025 campaign,
Mahoney made an early decision to remain with the Force, despite the Seahawks returning to the NBL1 North league.
“I felt like last year didn’t end the way we wanted,” he said.
“We can definitely build from that. It was never really a question where I wanted to play.”
