Northern Territory rapper and dancer Danzal Baker, known as Baker Boy, headlined the second night of NBA House Australia in Melbourne on Friday, May 15. This live performance at The Timber Yard marked a unique and fitting intersection of Australian music and American basketball culture. Baker Boy took the stage at 8:30 p.m. as part of the NBA’s inaugural Australian fan experience, which spanned four days from May 14 to May 17 at the Port Melbourne venue.

The expansive 6,000-square-metre NBA House Australia offered a variety of attractions for fans, including playoff viewing parties, engaging basketball challenges, an NBA 2K26 gaming zone, and showcases of streetwear. Attendees also had photo opportunities with the prestigious Larry O’Brien Trophy and appearances from current and former NBA players.

Friday's schedule was packed with appearances from prominent basketball figures. Atlanta Hawks center and Australian NBA representative Jock Landale participated in a “Courtside Stories” fan engagement session at 12:30 p.m. Four-time NBA All-Star DeMarcus Cousins made several crossover appearances in the afternoon, later hosting another “Courtside Stories” session and photo opportunities in the evening. Additionally, the Sacramento Kings Dance Team and Dunk Team delivered performances throughout the day. The entire NBA House Australia event was headlined across the weekend by All-Stars Jaren Jackson Jr. and DeMarcus Cousins, who engaged with fans through meet-and-greets and scheduled programming. Ahead of the event, Jackson Jr. expressed his anticipation, stating, “I know Australian fans are some of the most passionate in the world, and I look forward to celebrating the excitement of the NBA Playoffs with them.”

Baker Boy’s NBA appearance coincides with a strong period in his career. The six-time ARIA Award-winner recently concluded a 10-date Australian album tour in support of his second record, DJANDJAY. He has also been performing his new anthem, “CURSE,” in his live sets, a track set to feature on the forthcoming DJANDJAY (Deluxe) edition, due for release later this year via Island Records/Universal Music Australia. Baker Boy noted the enthusiastic reception for “CURSE,” remarking, “You know you got something good when people haven’t ever heard the track before, but you can see the whole crowd bouncing to it.” “CURSE” was written and produced in Melbourne by Baker Boy alongside his longtime collaborators Pip Norman (known for his work with Troye Sivan and Missy Higgins) and Rob Amoruso (who has worked with G Flip and Thelma Plum). The track also features acclaimed Toronto-based songwriter and producer WondaGurl (who has collaborated with Rihanna, Travis Scott, and SZA), whose involvement stemmed from the inaugural ARIA Collab Initiative.