Past Champions

2023 Sal’s NBL Champions: Canterbury Rams

Photo credit: Render Creative NZ

In a night filled with highlight plays and superlative efforts, the Champion Wheeler Motor Company Rams electrified the crowd and etched their names in the annals of New Zealand basketball history.

With a gripping 93-82 victory over the Auckland Tuatara, the Rams broke a 31-year title drought and emerged as the undisputed champions of the 2023 Sal’s NBL season. 

The Rams’ triumphant journey to the title was defined by exceptional performances from both seasoned veterans and rising stars. Led by the dynamic duo of Corey Webster and Finals MVP Tevin Brown, the Rams exhibited unmatched prowess on both ends of the court.

Corey Webster’s outstanding 25-point display, complemented by seven assists and four rebounds, showcased his Tall Blacks’ seasoned skills as a creator and shooter.

Meanwhile, Tevin Brown was electric with his performance of 23 points and 12 rebounds, the highest total in the game, and five assists in a dominant second half performance. 

The Rams’ talented roster proved their depth once again, with impressive contributions from Walter Brown, who demonstrated his two-way versatility with 10 points and nine rebounds and pesky defence on the ball and at the rim.

American forward Troy Baxter Jr. added a 17 crucial, and often timely, points off the bench, further solidifying the Rams attack with his athleticism. 

Coach Judd Flavell, who has now secured his third NBL title, spoke of the significance of this win.

“This one is special. For a club who’s been a great part of this league for a very long time, it’s been a long time coming for them,” Flavell said.

He highlighted the Rams’ youthful lineup, with most players born after the team’s last championship victory in 1992.  

The Rams’ exceptional season culminated in a remarkable comeback in the fourth quarter of the final, showcasing their resilience and ability to thrive under pressure. 

For the Tuatara, this loss was undoubtedly disappointing, having come up short of the finish line in the title game for the second year in a row. Despite their benchmark season, finishing with a top of the table 13-5 record, they were unable to stop the Rams in their push down the stretch in the title-winning match. 

Reuben Te Rangi’s offence was on full display for the Tuatara, with 16 points in the first half alone. Te Rangi’s driving layups and 3-point shooting posed challenges for the Rams’ defence ending the night with 27 points. 

Regular season MVP Rob Loe hauled in 11 rebounds and dished seven assists.

With the 2023 Sal’s NBL season coming to a close, the Canterbury region rejoices in the Rams’ well-deserved victory as they bring the trophy back to Cowles Stadium. 

Full List of 2023 Award Winners:

MVP – Rob Loe (Tuatara)
Defensive Player of the Year – Rob Loe (Tuatara)
Youth Player of the Year – Walter Brown (Rams)
Most Improved Player – Charlie Dalton (Tuatara)
All Star Five – Jeremy Kendle (Sharks), Jarrad Weeks (Tuatara), Tevin Brown (Rams), Todd Withers (Nuggets), Rob Loe (Tuatara)
Steve McKean Coach of the Year – To be Announced on Hoop Heads

Historic Awards

Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy) – Jarrad Weeks (Tuatara)
Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy) – Derone Raukawa (Hawks)
Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup) – Rob Loe (Tuatara)
Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy) – Rob Loe (Tuatara)
Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy) – Jeremy Kendle (Sharks)
Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy) – Rob Loe (Tuatara)
Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy) – Jeremy Kendle (Sharks)
Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy) – Manawatu Jets

Club Awards

Team GM of the Year – Angela Ruske (Otago Nuggets)
Club of the Year – Otago Nuggets
Best Game Presentation – Wellington Saints
Best Fan Engagement – Manawatu Jets
Best Social Media – Nelson Giants

Officials Awards

Referee of the Year – Callum Welch

Past Champions

2022 Sal’s NBL Champions: Otago Nuggets

The Night ‘n Day Otago Nuggets are the 2022 Sal’s National Basketball League (NBL) Champions defeating the Auckland Tuatara 81-73 at a packed Eventfinda Stadium on Saturday night .

The NBL was guaranteed a first-time champion before the game began. The Nuggets won the Covid restricted NBL Showdown in 2020 but had never previously contested a full season NBL Grand Final.

In contrast to the Nuggets 30-year association with the NBL the Tuatara are in their rookie NBL season having emerged from the ashes of the extinct Huskies.

In a hugely entertaining Final it was the Nuggets that prevailed thanks to a Grand Final MVP performance from American Keith Williams. The rookie pro out of the University of Cincinnati amassed 34 points on 13 from 23 from the field and 6 from 7 at the free throw line.

Whenever the Nuggets needed a basket it was Williams, the least heralded of the three Nuggets imports, that delivered – 14 of his points coming in the all-important fourth quarter.

Williams received fine support from Tray Boyd III (19 points) and Nikau McCullough (9pts) but particularly the front court duo of Todd Withers and Sam Timmins the pair performing with distinction at both ends of the court.

The Tuatara enjoyed double figure contributions from Siler Schneider (16 points), Rob Loe (13 points and 12 rebounds), Chris Johnson (13 points), Dontae Russo-Nance (11 points and Taki Fahrensohn (10 points) but couldn’t quite replicate their outstanding performances that saw off the wellington Saints and Taranaki Airs.

Teams: 
10 teams took part in 2022 (regular season standings):
Taranaki Airs, Nelson Giants, Otago Nuggets, Wellington Saints, Auckland Tuatara, Hawke’s Bay Hawks, Canterbury Rams, Franklin Bulls, Southland Sharks, Manawatu Jets.

Full List of Award Winners

Stuff MVP – Xavier Cooks (Saints) 
Defensive Player of the Year – Jarrod West (Giants) 
Youth Player of the Year – Dontae Russo-Nance (Tuatara) 
Most Improved Player – Sam Dempster (Giants) 
All Star Five – Jarrod West (Giants), Anthony Hilliard (Airs), Javonte Douglas (Airs), Xavier Cooks (Saints), Chris Johnson (Tuatara) 
Coach of the Year – Mike Fitchett (Giants) 

Historic Awards

Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy) – Jarrod West
Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy) – Corey Webster
Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup) – Xavier Cooks
Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy) – Rob Loe
Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy) – Anthony Hilliard
Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy) – John Bohannon
Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy) – Jarrod West
Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy) – Nelson Giants

Club Awards

Team GM of the Year – Mitchell Langton
Club of the Year – Nelson Giants
Best Game Presentation – Wellington Saints
Best Fan Engagement – Canterbury Rams
Best Social Media – Franklin Bulls

Officials Awards 

Referee of the Year – Melony O’Connor

Photo by Render Creative.

Past Champions

2021 NBL Champions: Wellington Saints

The Wellington Saints added title number 12 to their illustrious trophy cabinet this evening after hanging tough in a nail-biter and pipping the Taylor Hawke’s Bay Hawks 77-75 in the 2021 Sal’s NBL grand final.

All those in attendance at a packed out Te Rauparaha Arena were on the edge of their seats as the final few moments took place.

Only four points separated the League’s top-two seeds as the clocked entered the last minute and when Rhys Vague converted underneath it meant the game was going to come down to a stop or make.

The Hawks ended up getting the stop they needed thanks to great read by Devondrick Walker, but with less than a handful of seconds remaining the forward was in a hurry to drop what would have been a game-winning or game-tying basket.

Unfortunately, neither the Hawks or the crowd were treated to a clutch shot and it was the League’s most consistent team from this season who walked away with the spoils.

 

Teams:

10 teams contested the 2021 (regular season standings): Wellington Saints, Hawke’s Bay Hawks, Southland Sharks, Auckland Huskies, Canterbury Rams, Otago Nuggets, Nelson Giants, Franklin Bulls, Manawatu Jets & Taranaki Mountainairs.

 

Grand Final:

Wellington Saints (77) defeated Hawke’s Bay Hawks (75) (Referees: Melony O’Connor, Marty Davison & Matt Bathurst)

 

Season Award Winners:

  • Regular Season Winners: Wellington Saints (16-2)
  • Stuff Most Valuable Player: Dion Prewster (Wellington Saints)
  • Grand Final MVP: Kerwin Roach Jr (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Improved Player: Sam Timmins (Otago Nuggets)
  • Youth Player of the Year: Zach Riley (Auckland Huskies)
  • Defensive Player of the Year: Dion Prewster (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Dion Prewster (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy): Dion Prewster (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): Sam Timmins (Otago Nuggets)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy): Sam Timmins (Otago Nuggets)
  • Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): Hunter Hale (Nelson Giants)
  • Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): Sam Timmins (Otago Nuggets)
  • Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): Courtney Belger (Southland Sharks)
  • Coach of the Year: Zico Coronel (Wellington Saints)
  • Referee of the Year: Melony O’Connor 
  • Team GM of the Year: Jordan Mills (Wellington Saints)
  • Club of the Year: Otago Nuggets
  • Best Game Presentation: Southland Sharks 
  • Best Fan Engagement: Manawatu Jets 
  • Best Social Media: Canterbury Rams 

 

All-Star Five:

  • Dion Prewster (Wellington Saints)
  • Hunter Hale (Nelson Giants)
  • Dom Kelman-Poto (Southland Sharks)
  • Taane Samuel (Wellington Saints)
  • Sam Timmins (Otago Nuggets)

 

Photo: www.photosport.nz

Past Champions

2020 NBL Showdown Champions: Otago Nuggets

The 2020 Sal’s NBL headed into uncharted territory. Due to the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic the seven participating teams in the Sal’s NBL headed to Auckland to stay in one central city location. The 56 ensuing games were played at Trusts Arena, Waitakere over 40 days before Fluid Recruitment Otago Nuggets were eventually crowned NBL champions, for the very first time, after a narrow 79-77 victory against the Manawatu Jets.

Before the competition commenced an inaugural NBL Draft took place with each team making 12 picks from a player pool that totaled over 400. The No1 pick was Jordan Ngatai who linked up with Jarrod Kenny at the Nuggets. The second pick went to the Steelformers Taranaki Mountainairs who selected Derone Rauwkawa whilst Property Brokers, See Me Media Manawatu Jets inked the eventual League MVP Tom Vodanovich. As expected Mika Vukona went to Mike Pero Nelson Giants but the Giants suffered the ill luck of having the Tall Blacks captain sidelined for most of the competition after having to undergo an appendix operation.

The Giants and the Wheeler Motor Company Canterbury Rams were the teams worst hit by injuries. The Rams lost their No1 pick Jack Salt before arriving in Auckland and an injury also removed their third pick Joe Cook-Green. Further injuries affected both teams although the Rams did benefit from the mid-season acquisition of Reuben Te Rangi. The other two teams were the new Auckland franchises, EnviroNZ Franklin Bulls and Auckland Huskies. The Bulls picked Dominique Kelman-Poto and Sam Timmins as their top two selections whilst the Huskies went for Izayah Mauriahoohoo-Le’afa and Tohi Smith-Milner.

The Taranaki Mountainairs had the distinction of winning the opening game of the season not only screened live on Sky Tv but also in the USA on ESPN. Viewers outside of New Zealand and the USA were able to watch games by subscribing to the NZNBLpass.com. Having every game televised live was a first for the NBL as was the unprecedented interest from overseas.

The regular season saw form fluctuate but the overall evenness of the competition was highlighted by the fact that the regular season champions Otago Nuggets lost 5 of their 14 games whilst bottom placed Giants won 4 games and of their 10 losses 5 were by less than ten points.

In the semi-finals the Jets beat the Airs 105-95 with the Nuggets proving too good for the Rams winning 97-79.

A near capacity crowd witnessed Otago, returning to the NBL for the first time since 2014, claim it’s first ever title with a 79-77 win in a terrific contest that remained undecided until the final possession – Jordan Hunt was named Grand Final MVP. 

Teams:

7 teams contested the 2020 NBL Showdown (regular season standings): Otago Nuggets, Manawatu Jets, Auckland Huskies, Taranaki Mountainairs, Franklin Bulls, Nelson Giants & Canterbury Rams. 

Grand Final:

Otago Nuggets (79) defeated Manawatu Jets (77) (Referees: Tim Brown, Melony Wealleans & Marty Davison)

Season Award Winners:

  • SkyCity Most Valuable Player: Tom Vodanovich (Manawatu Jets)
  • Grand Final MVP: Jordan Hunt (Otago Nuggets)
  • Coach of the Year: Brent Matehaere (Otago Nuggets)
  • Youth Player of the Year: Taane Samuel (Manawatu Jets)
  • Defensive Player of the Year: Jarrod Kenny (Otago Nuggets) and Izayah Mauriohooho-Le’afa (Auckland Huskies)
  • Team GM of the Year: Caleb Harrison (Canterbury Rams)
  • Best Social Media: Franklin Bulls

All-Star Five:

  • G: Derone Raukawa (Taranaki Mountainairs)
  • G: Izayah Mauriohooho-Le’afa (Auckland Huskies)
  • F: Jordan Ngatai (Otago Nuggets)
  • F: Marcel Jones (Taranaki Mountainairs)
  • C: Tom Vodanovich (Manawatu Jets)

 

Photo: www.photosport.nz

Past Champions

2019 NBL Champions: Wellington Saints

The 2019 season had nine teams vying to become Sal’s NBL champions, with the Southern Huskies joining the competition as the first ever Australian sports team competing in a New Zealand national sports league.

Teams:

9 teams contested the 2019 season (final standings): Wellington Saints, Hawke’s Bay Hawks, Canterbury Rams, Southland Sharks, Southern Huskies, Nelson Giants, Taranaki Mountainairs, Supercity Rangers and Manawatu Jets.

 

Grand Final:

Wellington Saints (78) defeated Hawke’s Bay Hawks (68) (Referees: Dallas Pickering, Melony Wealleans & Marty Davison)

 

Season Award Winners:

  • Regular Season Winners: Wellington Saints (18-0)
  • Most Valuable Player: Nick Kay (Wellington Saints)
  • NZ Most Valuable Player: 
  • Grand Final MVP: Tom Abercrombie (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Cam Gliddon (Canterbury Rams)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy): Shea Ili (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): Nick Kay (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy): Rob Loe (Wellington Saints)
  • Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): 
  • Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): 
  • Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy): 
  • Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): 
  • Youth Player of the Year: Tyrell Harrison (Nelson Giants)
  • Coach of the Year: Mick Downer (Canterbury Rams)
  • Referee of the Year: Marty Davison (Christchurch)
  • Administrator of the Year: Julie Bennseman (Nelson Giants)

 

All-Star Five:

  • G: Cam Gliddon (Canterbury Rams)
  • G: Shea Ili (Wellington Saints)
  • F: EJ Singler (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • F: Brandon Bowman (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • C: Nick Kay (Wellington Saints)

 

Photo: www.photosport.nz

Past Champions

2018 NBL Champions: Southland Sharks

The 2018 season had eight teams vying to become Sal’s NBL champions, with the Manawatu Jets returning after a two year hiatus. In a season of twists and turns, one that saw the Wellington Saints unbeaten run come to an end in the first week of the season, it was the Southland Sharks who ultimately prevailed. The Sharks, who were without star playmaker Jarrad Weeks for much of the decider, gained revenge over the Saints for their 2017 Grand Final heartbreak. Defeat for the Saints also dashed any hopes of an historic 3-peat.

Teams:

8 teams contested the 2018 season (final standings): Southland Sharks, Wellington Saints, Nelson Giants, Hawke’s Bay Hawks, Canterbury Rams, Super City Rangers, Taranaki Mountainairs and Manawatu Jets.

Grand Final:

Southland Sharks (98) defeated Wellington Saints (96) (Referees: Dallas Pickering, Melony Wealleans & Ryan Jones)

Season Award Winners:

  • Regular Season Winners: Wellington Saints (15-3)
  • Most Valuable Player: Shea Ili (Wellington Saints)
  • NZ Most Valuable Player: Shea Ili(Wellington Saints)
  • Finals MVP: Reuben Te Rangi (Southland Sharks)
  • Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Shea Ili (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy): Shea Ili (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): Finn Delany (Nelson Giants)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy): Finn Delany (Nelson Giants)
  • Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): Daishon Knight (28.9) (Manawatu Jets)
  • Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): Kuran Iverson (11.1) (Manawatu Jets)
  • Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy): Wellington Saints
  • Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): Lindsay Tait (7.6) (Super City Rangers)
  • Rookie of the Year: Max Darling (Canterbury Rams)
  • Coach of the Year: Jamie Pearlman (Nelson Giants)
  • Referee of the Year: Ryan Jones (Auckland)
  • Administrator of the Year: Bill Dahlberg (Nelson Giants)

All-Star Five:

  • G: Jarrad Weeks (Southland Sharks)
  • G: Shea Ili (Wellington Saints)
  • F: Winston Shepard III (Canterbury Rams)
  • F: Finn Delany (Nelson Giants)
  • C: Angus Brandt (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)

Photo: www.photosport.nz

Past Champions

2014 NBL Champions: Wellington Saints

Ten teams contested the 2014 season with the Canterbury Rams reentering the league following a five year hiatus. The Wellington Saints, led by Tall Blacks guard Corey Webster, secured their eighth NBL title as they defeated the minor premier Hawke’s Bay Hawks in the decider.

Teams:

10 teams contested the 2014 season (final standings): Wellington Saints, Hawke’s Bay Hawks, Nelson Giants, Southland Sharks, Manawatu Jets, Waikato Pistons, Super City Rangers, Otago Nuggets, Canterbury Rams and Taranaki Mountainairs.

Grand Final:

Wellington Saints (85) defeated Hawke’s Bay Hawks (69) (Referees: Tim Brown, Dallas Pickering & Gavin Zimmerman)

Season Award Winners:

  • Regular Season Winners: Hawke’s Bay Hawks (15-3)
  • Most Valuable Player: Corey Webster (Wellington Saints)
  • NZ Most Valuable Player: Corey Webster (Wellington Saints)
  • Finals MVP: Lindsay Tait (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Corey Webster (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy): Corey Webster (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): Suleiman Braimoh (Taranaki Mountainairs)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy): Duane Bailey (Super City Rangers)
  • Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): Jason Cadee (26.7) (Super City Rangers)
  • Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): Nick Horvath (15.9) (Manawatu Jets)
  • Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): Mark Dickel (9.1) (Otago Nuggets)
  • Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy): Nelson Giants (77.0%)
  • Rookie of the Year: Richie Edwards (Canterbury Rams)
  • Coach of the Year: Tab Baldwin (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • Referee of the Year: Tim Brown (Auckland)
  • Administrator of the Year: Tanya Dearns (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • Media Award: Sam Worthington (Dominion Post)

All-Star Five:

  • G: Jason Cadee (Super City Rangers)
  • G: Corey Webster (Wellington Saints)
  • F: Dustin Scott (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • F: Suleiman Braimoh (Taranaki Mountainairs)
  • C: Jamal Boykin (Nelson Giants)

Photo: www.photosport.co.nz

Past Champions

2013 NBL Champions: Southland Sharks

Nine teams contested the 2013 NBL season although there were several team changes from the year prior. The Waikato Pistons and Super City Rangers reentered the league with the Auckland Pirates and Harbour Heat both dropping out. Despite finishing fourth, the Southland Sharks claimed their maiden title, upsetting title favourite and minor premiers Wellington in the semifinals, before defeating the Nelson Giants in the decider. NBL legend Lindsay Tait had another stellar season for the Saints, being named the leagues MVP as well as securing several other season awards.

Teams:

9 teams contested the 2013 season (final standings): Southland Sharks, Nelson Giants, Wellington Saints, OceanaGold Nuggets, Manawatu Jets, Taranaki Mountainairs, Hawke’s Bay Hawks, Waikato Pistons, Super City Rangers.

Grand Final:

Southland Sharks (92) defeated Nelson Giants (81) (Referees: Tim Brown, Melony Wealleans & Dallas Pickering)

Season Award Winners:

  • Regular Season Winners: Wellington Saints (14-2)
  • Most Valuable Player: Lindsay Tait (Wellington Saints)
  • NZ Most Valuable Player: Lindsay Tait (Wellington Saints)
  • Finals MVP: Leon Henry (Southland Sharks)
  • Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Lindsay Tait (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy): Lindsay Tait (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): Brian Conklin (Southland Sharks)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy): B.J. Anthony (OceanaGold Nuggets)
  • Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): Josh Pace (22.9) (Nelson Giants)
  • Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): Zack Atkinson (14.6) (Waikato Pistons)
  • Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): Lindsay Tait (8.1) (Wellington Saints)
  • Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy): Nelson Giants (77.3%)
  • Rookie of the Year: Tai Webster (Waikato Pistons)
  • Coach of the Year: Paul Henare (Southland Sharks)
  • Referee of the Year: Tim Brown (Auckland)
  • Administrator of the Year: Sharona Gordon (Nelson Giants)

All-Star Five:

  • G: Lindsay Tait (Wellington Saints)
  • G: Josh Pace (Nelson Giants)
  • F: B.J. Anthony (OceanaGold Nuggets)
  • F: Brian Conklin (Southland Sharks)
  • C: Nick Horvath (Manawatu Jets)

Photo: www.photosport.co.nz

Past Champions

2012 NBL Champions: Auckland Pirates

Nine teams contested the 2012 NBL season – the Harbour Heat reentered the competition whilst the Waikato Pistons dropped out. Despite a great year from the Minor Premier Hawkes’s Bay Hawks, they were unable to secure a spot in the final dance, eliminated in the semifinals by the Wellington Saints. In only their second year in the competition, the Auckland Pirates claimed their first NBL championship, defeating the Saints in a closely fought Grand Final. The 2012 season will also be remembered fondly for the standout performances of Manawatu Jets big man Nick Horvath. Horvath would go on to claim league MVP honours alongside several other awards.

Teams:

9 teams contested the 2012 season (final standings): Auckland Pirates, Wellington Saints, Hawke’s Bay Hawks, Manawatu Jets, Taranaki Mountainairs, Nelson Giants, Otago Nuggets, Southland Sharks, Harbour Heat.

Grand Final:

Auckland Pirates (89) defeated Wellington Saints (83) (Referees: Dallas Pickering, Gavin Whiu & Yalla Edwards)

Season Award Winners:

  • Regular Season Winners: Hawke’s Bay Hawks (13-3)
  • Most Valuable Player: Nick Horvath (Manawatu Jets)
  • NZ Most Valuable Player: Nick Horvath (Manawatu Jets)
  • Finals MVP: Alex Pledger (Auckland Pirates)
  • Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Lindsay Tait (Auckland Pirates)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy): Lindsay Tait (Auckland Pirates)
  • Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): Nick Horvath (Manawatu Jets)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy): Nick Horvath (Manawatu Jets)
  • Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): Josh Pace (23.0) (Manawatu Jets)
  • Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): Nick Horvath (15.8) (Manawatu Jets)
  • Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): Jason Crowe (8.7) (Wellington Saints)
  • Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy): Hawke’s Bay Hawks (72.2%)
  • Rookie of the Year: Rueben Te Rangi (Harbour Heat)
  • Coach of the Year: Paul Henare (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • Referee of the Year: Melony Wealleans (Wellington)
  • Media Award: Pete McNae (Nelson Mail)

All-Star Five:

  • G: Lindsay Tait (Auckland Pirates)
  • G: Paora Winitana (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • F: Josh Pace (Manawatu Jets)
  • F: Antoine Tisby (Otago Nuggets)
  • C: Nick Horvath (Manawatu Jets)

Photo: www.photosport.co.nz

Past Champions

2011 NBL Champions: Wellington Saints

Nine teams contested the 2011 NBL season, the 30th running of the league. A new franchise, the Auckland Pirates, entered the league for the first time. The Christchurch Cougars were an unfortunate withdrawal due to the effects of the 2011 Canterbury earthquake. Led by Lindsay Tait, the Wellington Saints backed up their 2010 title, defeating the Hawke’s Bay Hawks in the Grand Final to claim their seventh championship. 2011 will also be remembered for being Steven Adams one and only season in the NBL, which saw him collect the Rookie of the Year award and a championship with the Saints.

Teams:

9 teams contested the 2011 season (final standings): Wellington Saints, Hawke’s Bay Hawks, Waikato Pistons, Nelson Giants, Manawatu Jets, Southland Sharks, Auckland Pirates, Taranaki Mountainairs and Otago Nuggets.

Grand Final:

Wellington Saints (106) defeated Hawke’s Bay Hawks (97) (Referees: Tim Brown, Dallas Pickering & Raewyn Willocks)

Season Award Winners:

  • Regular Season Winners: Wellington Saints (13-3)
  • Most Valuable Player: Alex Pledger (Waikato Pistons)
  • NZ Most Valuable Player: Alex Pledger (Waikato Pistons)
  • Finals MVP: Lindsay Tait (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Lindsay Tait (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy): Lindsay Tait (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): Alex Pledger (Waikato Pistons)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy): Alex Pledger (Waikato Pistons)
  • Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): Jack Leasure (22.9) (Taranaki Mountainairs)
  • Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): Nick Horvath (11.7) (Manawatu Jets)
  • Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): Jason Crowe (7.2) (Waikato Pistons)
  • Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy): Otago Nuggets (72.6%)
  • Rookie of the Year: Steven Adams (Wellington Saints)
  • Coach of the Year: Dean Vickerman (Waikato Pistons)
  • Referee of the Year: Tim Brown (Auckland)
  • Administrator of the Year: Jill Bolger (Southland Sharks)
  • Media Award: Daniel McHardy (Radio Sport)

All-Star Five:

  • G: Lindsay Tait (Wellington Saints)
  • G: Jason Crowe (Waikato Pistons)
  • F: Thomas Abercrombie (Waikato Pistons)
  • F: Mika Vukona (Nelson Giants)
  • C: Alex Pledger (Waikato Pistons)

Photo: www.photosport.co.nz

Past Champions

2010 NBL Champions: Wellington Saints

The 2010 season was the 29th running of the NBL. Several team changes took place – the Otago Nuggets re-entered the competition following their one year absence, the Southland Sharks entered the league for the first time and the Auckland Stars dropped out. The Wellington Saints secured their sixth title, defeating Waikato in the best-of-three finals series. This also denied the Pistons the opportunity to claim a rare three-peat after their titles in ’08 and ’09.

Teams:

10 teams contested the 2010 season (final standings): Wellngton Saints, Waikato Pistons, Nelson Giants, Hawke’s Bay Hawks, Harbour Heat, Southland Sharks, Christchurch Cougars, Taranaki Mountainairs, Manawatu Jets and Otago Nuggets.

Grand Final (Best Of Three Series):

  • Game One: Waikato Pistons (80) defeated Wellington Saints (74) (Referees: Tim Brown, Dallas Pickering & Gavin Whiu)
  • Game Two: Wellington Saints (98) defeated Waikato Pistons (69) (Referees: Dallas Pickering, Tim Brown & Andy Thackray)
  • Game Two: Wellington Saints (82) defeated Waikato Pistons (79) (Referees: Dallas Pickering, Tim Brown & Andy Thackray)

Season Award Winners:

  • Regular Season Winners: Wellington Saints (14-4)
  • Most Valuable Player: Lindsay Tait (Wellington Saints)
  • NZ Most Valuable Player: Thomas Abercrombie (Waikato Pistons)
  • Finals MVP: Lindsay Tait (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Lindsay Tait (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy): Lindsay Tait (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): Thomas Abercrombie (Waikato Pistons)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy): Thomas Abercrombie (Waikato Pistons)
  • Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): Eric Devendorf (25.6) (Wellington Saints)
  • Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): Alex Pledger (12.6) (Waikato Pistons)
  • Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): Lindsay Tait (7.1) (Wellington Saints)
  • Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy): Manawatu Jets (74.2%)
  • Rookie of the Year: Martin Iti (Southland Sharks)
  • Coach of the Year: Pero Cameron (Wellington Saints)
  • Referee of the Year: Dallas Pickering (Auckland)
  • Administrator of the Year: James King (Nelson Giants)
  • Media Award: Brendan Egan (Southland Times)

All-Star Five:

  • G: Lindsay Tait (Wellington Saints)
  • G: Eric Devendorf (Wellington Saints)
  • F: Rene Rougeau (Southland Sharks)
  • F: Thomas Abercrombie (Waikato Pistons)
  • C: Mika Vukona (Nelson Giants)

Photo: www.photosport.co.nz

Past Champions

2009 NBL Champions: Waikato Pistons

The Waikato Pistons followed up their 2008 league triumph by going back-to-back to claim their fourth NBL championship. Only nine teams contested the league with the Otago Nuggets dropping out after several disappointing seasons. The Canterbury Rams also withdrew from the competition in late 2008, replaced by new franchise the Christchurch Cougars. 2009 will also be remembered for the breakout season had by teenage rookie and future star Thomas Abercrombie, collecting rookie and forward of the year gongs plus all-star five selection.

Teams:

9 teams contested the 2009 season (final standings): Waikato Pistons, Nelson Giants, Wellington Saints, Christchurch Cougars, Harbour Heat, Hawke’s Bay Hawks, Manawatu Jets, Auckland Stars and Taranaki Mountainairs.

Grand Final (Best Of Three Series):

  • Game One: Waikato Pistons (81) defeated Nelson Giants (69) (Referees: Tim Brown, Dallas Pickering & Andy Thackray)
  • Game Two: Waikato Pistons (94) defeated Nelson Giants (84) (Referees: Dallas Pickering, Melony Wealleans & Andy Thackray)

Season Award Winners:

  • Regular Season Winners: Waikato Pistons (14-2)
  • Most Valuable Player: Phill Jones (Nelson Giants)
  • NZ Most Valuable Player: Phill Jones (Nelson Giants)
  • Finals MVP: Justin Bailey (Waikato Pistons)
  • Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Mike Efevberha (Wellington Saints)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy): Phill Jones (Nelson Giants)
  • Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): Thomas Abercrombie (Waikato Pistons)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy): Thomas Abercrombie (Waikato Pistons)
  • Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): Mike Efevberha (27.8) (Wellington Saints)
  • Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): Jamil Terrell (10.3) (Manawatu Jets)
  • Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): Paul Henare (6.5) (Christchurch Cougars)
  • Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy): Wellington Saints (77.4%)
  • Rookie of the Year: Thomas Abercrombie (Waikato Pistons)
  • Coach of the Year: Dean Vickerman (Waikato Pistons)
  • Referee of the Year: Tim Brown (Auckland)
  • Administrator of the Year: Ange Agnew (Waikato Pistons)
  • Media Award: Geoff Longley (The Press)

All-Star Five:

  • G: Mike Efevberha (Wellington Saints)
  • G: Phill Jones (Nelson Giants)
  • F: Thomas Abercrombie (Waikato Pistons)
  • F: Adam Ballinger (Waikato Pistons)
  • C: Tim Behrendorff (Christchurch Cougars)

 
Photo: www.photosport.nz

Past Champions

2008 NBL Champions: Waikato Pistons

The Waikato Pistons claimed their third league title, defeating the Wellington Saints 2-0 in the best-of-three Finals Series. Pistons guard Jason Crowe was named the leagues MVP after a dominant season.

Teams:

10 teams contested the 2008 season (final standings): Waikato Pistons, Wellington Saints, Nelson Giants, Auckland Stars, Harbour Heat, Hawke’s Bay Hawks, Taranaki Mountainairs, Canterbury Rams, Manawatu Jets and Otago Nuggets.

Grand Final (Best Of Three Series):

  • Game One: Waikato Pistons (95) defeated Wellington Saints (78) (Referees: Gavin Whiu, Dallas Pickering & Andy Thackray)
  • Game Two: Waikato Pistons (84) defeated Wellington Saints (79) (Referees: Dallas Pickering, Gavin Whiu & Tim Brown)

Season Award Winners:

  • Regular Season Winners: Wellington Saints (14-4)
  • Most Valuable Player: Jason Crowe (Waikato Pistons)
  • NZ Most Valuable Player: Casey Frank (Auckland Stars)
  • Finals MVP: Puke Lenden (Waikato Pistons)
  • Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Jason Crowe (Waikato Pistons)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy): Phill Jones (Nelson Giants)
  • Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): Casey Frank (Auckland Stars)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy): Casey Frank (Auckland Stars)
  • Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): Brian Wethers (27.6) (Waikato Pistons)
  • Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): Antoine Tisby (10.8) (Otago Nuggets)
  • Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): Jason Crowe (8.3) (Waikato Pistons)
  • Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy): Harbour Heat
  • Rookie of the Year: Tyrone Davey (Auckland Stars)
  • Coach of the Year: Doug Marty (Wellington Saints)
  • Referee of the Year: Gavin Whiu
  • Administrator of the Year: Sarah Moulder (Nelson Giants)
  • Media Award: Adrian Seconi (Otago Daily Times)

All-Star Five:

  • G: Jason Crowe (Waikato Pistons)
  • G: Brian Wethers (Waikato Pistons)
  • F: Ernest Scott (Wellington Saints)
  • F: Casey Frank (Auckland Stars)
  • C: Nick Horvath (Wellington Saints)

Photo: www.photosport.co.nz

Past Champions

2007 NBL Champions: Nelson Giants

The Nelson Giants, led by league MVP Josh Pace, secured their third NBL title after defeating the Hawke’s Bay Hawks 2-0 in the best-of-three Finals Series. This was the Giants first title since the 1998 season.

Teams:

10 teams contested the 2007 season (final standings): Nelson Giants, Hawke’s Bay Hawks, Harbour Heat, Waikato Pistons, Auckland Stars, Wellington Saints, Taranaki Mountainairs, Canterbury Rams, Manawatu Jets and Otago Nuggets.

Grand Final (Best Of Three Series):

  • Game One: Nelson Giants (76) defeated Hawke’s Bay Hawks (67) (Referees: Alan Godden, Andy Thackray & Gavin Whiu)
  • Game Two: Nelson Giants (96) defeated Hawke’s Bay Hawks (83) (Referees: Alan Godden, Andy Thackray & Tim Brown)

Season Award Winners:

  • Regular Season Winners: Harbour Heat (14-4)
  • Most Valuable Player: Josh Pace (Nelson Giants)
  • NZ Most Valuable Player: Link Abrams (Taranaki Mountainairs) & Paora Winitana (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Josh Pace (Nelson Giants)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy): Hayden Allen (Harbour Heat) & Lindsay Tait (Auckland Stars)
  • Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): Link Abrams (Taranaki Mountainairs)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy): Link Abrams (Taranaki Mountainairs)
  • Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): Garry Hill-Thomas (26.2) (Taranaki Mountainairs)
  • Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): Link Abrams (11.5) (Taranaki Mountainairs)
  • Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): Paul Henare (6.4) (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy): Waikato Pistons
  • Rookie of the Year: Charlie Piho (Auckland Stars)
  • Coach of the Year: John Dorge (Harbour Heat)
  • Referee of the Year: Alan Godden
  • Administrator of the Year: Mark Rogers (Otago Nuggets)
  • Media Award: Toby Robson (Dominion Post)

All-Star Five:

  • G: Lindsay Tait (Auckland Stars)
  • G: Josh Pace (Nelson Giants)
  • F: Dillon Boucher (Auckland Stars)
  • F: Oscar Forman (Harbour Heat)
  • C: Link Abrams (Taranaki Mountainairs)

Photo: www.photosport.co.nz

Past Champions

2006 NBL Champions: Hawke’s Bay Hawks

After the heartbreak of being on the wrong end of a thrilling Grand Final encounter the year prior, the Hawke’s Bay Hawks didn’t have to wait long to claim their first NBL championship. The Hawks, led by league MVP Paora Winitana, defeated the Auckland Stars in the Grand Final – exacting revenge after losing to the same team in the ’05 decider. This denied the Stars a chance to claim what would have been a record tenth title.

Teams:

10 teams contested the 2006 season (final standings): Hawke’s Bay Hawks, Auckland Stars, Nelson Giants, Wellington Saints, Manawatu Jets, Harbour Heat, Canterbury Rams, Taranaki Mountainairs, Waikato Pistons (previously Waikato Titans) and Otago Nuggets.

Grand Final:

Hawke’s Bay Hawks (85) defeated Auckland Stars (69) (Referees: Alan Godden, Gavin Whiu & Tim Brown)

Season Award Winners:

  • Regular Season Winners: Auckland Stars (16-2)
  • Most Valuable Player: Paora Winitana (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • NZ Most Valuable Player: Casey Frank (Auckland Stars)
  • Finals MVP: Paora Winitana (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Paora Winitana (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy): Paora Winitana (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): Casey Frank (Auckland Stars)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy): Casey Frank (Auckland Stars)
  • Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): Dennis Trammell (25.6) (Canterbury Rams)
  • Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): Miles Pearce (11.9) (Otago Nuggets)
  • Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): Brad Davidson (4.8) (Manawatu Jets)
  • Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy): Auckland Stars
  • Rookie of the Year: Shaun Tilby (Otago Nuggets)
  • Coach of the Year: Nenad Vucinic (Nelson Giants)
  • Referee of the Year: Alan Godden
  • Administrator of the Year: Jeremy Bayliss (Hawke’s Bay Hawkes)
  • Media Award: Paul Wilson (Napier Mail)

All-Star Five:

  • G: Lindsay Tait (Auckland Stars)
  • G: Paora Winitana (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • F: Josh Pace (Nelson Giants)
  • F: Casey Frank (Auckland Stars)
  • C: Nick Horvath (Wellington Saints)

Photo: www.photosport.co.nz

Past Champions

2005 NBL Champions: Auckland Stars

The 2005 season saw the Auckland Stars collect a record ninth NBL title which would also be their last. The Stars pipped the Hawke’s Bay Hawks in a one-point thriller, cruelly denying the Hawks a maiden NBL championship.

Teams:

10 teams contested the 2005 season (final standings): Auckland Stars, Hawke’s Bay Hawks, Nelson Giants, Waikato Titans, Canterbury Rams, Taranaki Mountainairs, Harbour Heat, Wellington Saints, Manawatu Jets and Otago Nuggets.

Grand Final:

Auckland Stars (69) defeated Hawke’s Bay Hawks (68) (Referees: Alan Godden, Dallas Pickering & Gavin Whiu)

Season Award Winners:

  • Regular Season Winners: Auckland Stars (13-5)
  • Most Valuable Player: Lindsay Tait (Auckland Stars)
  • NZ Most Valuable Player: Lindsay Tait (Auckland Stars)
  • Finals MVP: Dillon Boucher (Auckland Stars)
  • Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Lindsay Tait (Auckland Stars)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy): Lindsay Tait (Auckland Stars)
  • Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): Casey Frank (Auckland Stars) & Jacob Holmes (Nelson Giants)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy): Mika Vukona (Nelson Giants)
  • Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): Greg Lewis (22.7) (Waikato Titans)
  • Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): David Cooper (11.7) (Manawatu Jets)
  • Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): Paul Henare (6.7) (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy): Nelson Giants
  • Young Player of the Year: Jarrod Kenny (Harbour Heat)
  • Coach of the Year: Nenad Vucinic (Nelson Giants)
  • Referee of the Year: Alan Godden
  • Administrator of the Year: Jeremy Bayliss (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • Media Award: Scott Preston (Waikato Times)

All-Star Five:

  • G: Paul Henare (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • G: Lindsay Tait (Auckland Stars)
  • F: Greg Lewis (Waikato Titans)
  • F: Jacob Holmes (Nelson Giants)
  • C: Casey Frank (Auckland Stars)

Photo: www.photosport.co.nz

Past Champions

2004 NBL Champions: Auckland Stars

The Auckland Stars prevailed in the 2004 season to claim their eighth league title. Led by Tall Blacks legends Dillon Boucher and Lindsay Tait, the Stars went on to defeat the Nelson Giants in the championship decider.

Teams:

10 teams contested the 2004 season (final standings): Auckland Stars, Nelson Giants, Wellington Saints, Hawke’s Bay Hawks, Manawatu Jets, Waikato Titans, Canterbury Rams, Taranaki Mountainairs, Otago Nuggets and Harbour Heat.

Grand Final:

Auckland Stars (80) defeated Nelson Giants (68) (Referees: Alan Godden, Stan Battock & Gavin Whiu)

Season Award Winners:

  • Regular Season Winners: Wellington Saints (13-5)
  • Most Valuable Player: Adrian Majstrovich (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • NZ Most Valuable Player: Adrian Majstrovich (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • Finals MVP: Aaron Olsen (Auckland Stars)
  • Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Lindsay Tait (Auckland Stars)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy): Lindsay Tait (Auckland Stars)
  • Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): Adrian Majstrovich (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy): Adrian Majstrovich (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): Geordie Cullen (23.7) (Waikato Titans)
  • Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): David Cooper (11.7) (Manawatu Jets)
  • Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): Paul Henare (5.2) (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy): Wellington Saints
  • Rookie of the Year: Luke Martin (Manawatu Jets)
  • Coach of the Year: Shawn Dennis (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • Referee of the Year: Alan Godden
  • Administrator of the Year: Jeremy Bayliss (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • Media Award: Toby Robson (Dominion Post)

All-Star Five:

  • G: Willie Banks (Taranaki Mountainairs)
  • G: Lindsay Tait (Auckland Stars)
  • F: Adrian Majstrovich (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • F: Ben Knight (Wellington Saints)
  • C: Geordie Cullen (Waikato Titans)

Photo: www.photosport.co.nz

Past Champions

2003 NBL Champions: Wellington Saints

The Wellington Saints broke a 15 year drought as they claimed the 2003 NBL championship, their fifth on total. The 2003 season will also be remembered for the introduction of a league-wide MVP award winner, thus allowing imports the opportunity to be recognised. David Cooper of the Manawatu Jets was the first recipient of the award. Ten teams contested the ’03 season, with the Taranaki Mountainairs re-entering the league after a three year hiatus.

Teams:

10 teams contested the 2003 season (final standings): Wellington Saints, Waikato Titans, Manawatu Jets, Auckland Stars, Nelson Giants, Hawke’s Bay Hawks, Otago Nuggets, Taranaki Mountainairs (previously Taranaki Oilers & Stormers), Canterbury Rams and Harbour Heat (previously Harbour Kings).

Grand Final:

Wellington Saints (97) defeated Waikato Titans (88) (Referees: Stan Battock, Ken Coulson & Gavin Whiu)

Season Award Winners:

  • Regular Season Winners: Waikato Titans (16-2)
  • Most Valuable Player: David Cooper (Manawatu Jets)
  • NZ Most Valuable Player: Dillon Boucher (Waikato Titans)
  • Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Lindsay Tait (Auckland Stars)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy): Lindsay Tait (Auckland Stars)
  • Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): David Cooper (Manawatu Jets)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy): Dillon Boucher (Waikato Titans)
  • Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): John Whorton (29.3) (Canterbury Rams)
  • Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): John Whorton (16.5) (Canterbury Rams)
  • Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): George Le’afa (6.2) (Wellington Saints)
  • Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy): Auckland Stars
  • Rookie of the Year: Adrian Majstrovich (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • Coach of the Year: Mike McHugh (Wellington Saints)
  • Administrator of the Year: Janie Granger (Nelson Giants)

All-Star Five:

  • G: Paul Henare (Hawke’s Bay Hawks)
  • G: Lindsay Tait (Auckland Stars)
  • F: Dillon Boucher (Waikato Titans)
  • F: Link Abrams (Taranaki Mountainairs)
  • C: David Cooper (Manawatu Jets)

Photo: www.photosport.co.nz

Past Champions

2002 NBL Champions: Waikato Titans

The Waikato Titans followed up their ’01 maiden title by going back-to-back as they secured their second NBL championship. Led by Tall Blacks star Dillon Boucher, the Titans went on to defeat the Nelson Giants in an end-to-end encounter played in front of a boisterous Nelson crowd.

Teams:

9 teams contested the 2002 season (final standings): Waikato Titans, Nelson Giants, Canterbury Rams, Manawatu Jets (previously Palmerston North Jets), Wellington Saints, Auckland Stars, Harbour Kings (previously North Harbour), Hawke’s Bay Hawks and Otago Nuggets.

Grand Final:

Waikato Titans (85) defeated Nelson Giants (83) (Referees: Ken Coulson, Dallas Pickering & Gavin Whiu)

Season Award Winners:

  • Regular Season Winners: Nelson Giants (11-5)
  • NZ Most Valuable Player: Terrence Lewis (Canterbury Rams)
  • Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Terrence Lewis (Canterbury Rams)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy): Terrence Lewis (Canterbury Rams)
  • Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): John Whorton (Canterbury Rams)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy): Ed Book (Nelson Giants)
  • Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): Ron Grady (25.1) (Otago Nuggets)
  • Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): John Whorton (13.4) (Canterbury Rams)
  • Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): Carlo Varricchio (5.3) (Canterbury Rams)
  • Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy): Otago Nuggets
  • Rookie of the Year: Miles Pearce (Manawatu Jets)
  • Coach of the Year: John Watson (Canterbury Rams)
  • Administrator of the Year: Janie Granger (Nelson Giants)

All-Star Five:

  • G: Mark Dickel (Wellington Saints)
  • G: Terrence Lewis (Canterbury Rams)
  • F: Dillon Boucher (Waikato Titans)
  • F: John Whorton (Canterbury Rams)
  • C: Ed Book (Nelson Giants)

 

Past Champions

2001 NBL Champions: Waikato Titans

The 2001 season was the 20th running of the NBL. A new champion was crowned in 2001, with the newly named Waikato Titans securing their first NBL championship. Clifton Bush was a mainstay for the Titans, finishing the season as the leagues top point scorer, as the team went on a record 15-game winning streak on their way to the title.

Teams:

9 teams contested the 2001 season (final standings): Waikato Titans (previously Waikato Warriors), Wellington Saints, Nelson Giants, Auckland Stars (previously Auckland Rebels), Palmerston North Jets, Canterbury Rams, North Harbour Kings, Hawke’s Bay Hawks and Otago Nuggets.

Grand Final:

Waikato Titans (112) defeated Wellington Saints (97) (Referees: Stan Battock & Ken Coulson)

Season Award Winners:

  • Regular Season Winners: Waikato Titans (15-1)
  • NZ Most Valuable Player: Phill Jones (Nelson Giants)
  • Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Phill Jones (Nelson Giants)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy): Phill Jones (Nelson Giants)
  • Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): Clifton Bush (Waikato Titans)
  • Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy): Terrence Lewis (Canterbury Rams)
  • Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): Clifton Bush (24.4) (Waikato Titans)
  • Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): Brian Gomes (14.4) (North Harbour Kings)
  • Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): Paul Henare (5.1) (Auckland Stars)
  • Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy): Wellington Saints
  • Rookie of the Year: Damon Rampton (Nelson Giants)
  • Coach of the Year: Nenad Vucinic (Nelson Giants)
  • Administrator of the Year: Janie Granger (Nelson Giants)

All-Star Five:

  • G: Hayden Allen (Otago Nuggets)
  • G: Phill Jones (Nelson Giants)
  • F: Clifton Bush (Waikato Titans)
  • F: Brian Gomes (North Harbour Kings)
  • C: Pero Cameron (Waikato Titans)

Photo: www.photosport.co.nz

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