Jayden Boucher

Professional Basketball Player, Whai Basketball / Junior Breakers Manager, NZ Breakers
Bachelor of Sport and Recreation in Management

Jayden Boucher says he loves splitting his time between playing for Whai Basketball and supporting the next generation through his work with the Junior Breakers.

“As a professional basketball player, I enjoy having a job where I get to play the sport I’ve loved since I was a kid. Another cool thing is being able to travel around all of New Zealand and playing basketball in different cities. I played my first year of professional basketball in 2024 and earned another contract for the same team in 2025. Signing with Whai Basketball for a second season is definitely one of my proudest achievements so far.

“I’ve also enjoyed managing the Junior Breakers for the last two and a half years. It’s a very rewarding job working with children – seeing them develop their basketball skills throughout the year and become more confident is such an amazing thing to witness.”

Memories of AUT
Jayden says he has always been passionate about sport.

“I chose to study sport and recreation because it resonated with me and was something I really had an interest in. I decided to go to AUT as I wanted to stay local and had heard very good reviews about the university from various people, with many of them recommending AUT as the best university for my degree.

“One of the highlights of my time at AUT was playing for the AUT basketball team at both the 5v5 and 3v3 tertiary basketball championships, and I was proud when we placed in the top three at the 5v5 basketball championships. Another highlight for me was going on my first ever tramp as part of one of my AUT courses.”

While he was impressed by the lecturers overall, there is one staff member whose support he particularly appreciated.

“Dr Tracy Molloy, one of my lecturers, helped me massively in my final year during my workplace experience. She consistently checked in with me and provided me with great feedback throughout the whole year. I appreciated her support during that time.”

Advice for other students
Jayden, who graduated from AUT in 2023, has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their university journey.

“My advice is to seize every opportunity your university degree presents and establish connections with everyone around you. Their expertise and experience are invaluable, and your lecturers are among the best in their field, so take full advantage of this. Overall, just make the most of your time at AUT as there are so many valuable resources and things to learn.”

He also has some practical advice to help with finding a job after uni.

“Don't hesitate to contact organisations where you could see yourself working. Interning and volunteering whenever possible will not only help you gain experience but will also make your CV stand out.”