Aussie Hoopla NBL & NBA Podcast

Support Aussie Hoopla: We are doing everything we can to keep these podcasts going, but the costs to produce, host, and track down guests are adding up. If you enjoy the show and want to help keep it alive, you can support us in two ways: Buy a T shirt or Buy Me A Coffee Every contribution goes directly toward keeping aussiehoopla.com online and the podcast running. ---------- Former NBL champion and Australian Boomer Mitch McCarron joins the podcast to discuss retiring from professional basketball at just 32, what went wrong during his three seasons with the Adelaide 36ers and the frustration of repeatedly representing Australia through qualifying windows but narrowly missing selection for an Olympics or World Cup. Host Dan Boyce chats with McCarron about leaving Cairns for Melbourne United, why Dean Vickerman's system brought out the best basketball of his career, winning the 2021 NBL championship and the defensive criticism he faced playing point guard at 6'3. McCarron also opens up on why he left a championship-winning Melbourne team to sign a three-year deal with Adelaide, why three talented 36ers rosters continually failed to reach the postseason, the Craig Randall situation, CJ Bruton's departure and whether Adelaide ultimately asked him to be a type of point guard that didn't suit his game. The conversation also covers Aaron Fearne's underrated Taipans teams, Cairns' 2017 playoff run, his final season playing through knee problems with the New Zealand Breakers, playing alongside Parker Jackson-Cartwright, missing the 2019 World Cup and Tokyo Olympics and captaining Australia to Asia Cup gold. Topics include: Retiring from the NBL at just 32 and the injuries behind the decision Why he continues playing NBL1 basketball despite retiring professionally Aaron Fearne's system and why Cairns consistently exceeded expectations What stopped the Taipans from going further during their 2017 playoff run Leaving Cairns as his value around the NBL continued to rise Why Dean Vickerman and Melbourne United brought out the best version of Mitch McCarron Winning the 2021 NBL championship and earning All-NBL Second Team honours The criticism around whether United needed to hide him defensively against quicker point guards Why he walked away from a championship team to sign with Adelaide What went wrong during three straight seasons without finals basketball at the 36ers The Craig Randall situation and the problems inside Adelaide during CJ Bruton's tenure Whether the 36ers asked McCarron to become the wrong type of point guard The frustration of captaining talented Adelaide teams that continually fell short Joining the New Zealand Breakers and playing alongside Parker Jackson-Cartwright Playing through serious knee problems during his final NBL season Missing the 2019 World Cup and Tokyo Olympic teams despite becoming a regular Boomer The frustration of playing FIBA qualifying windows but missing the major tournaments Captaining Australia to Asia Cup gold Comparing the systems he played in at Cairns, Melbourne, Adelaide and New Zealand What the perfect offence for peak Mitch McCarron would actually look like All of this and a whole lot more...

Support Aussie Hoopla: We are doing everything we can to keep these podcasts going, but the costs to produce, host, and track down guests are adding up. If you enjoy the show and want to help keep it alive, you can support us in two ways: Buy a T shirt or Buy Me A Coffee Every contribution goes directly toward keeping aussiehoopla.com online and the podcast running. ---------- Two-time NBL champion and five-time NBL Best Defensive Player Darnell Mee returns to the podcast to revisit Adelaide's back-to-back championships, the heartbreaking end to the 2001 season and why that loss ultimately led him to leave the 36ers. Host Dan Boyce chats with Mee about watching his son Micale build his own basketball career in Australia, representing Adelaide at the McDonald's Championship, becoming teammates with Damon Lowery after their infamous 2001 playoff meeting, and the extraordinary sacrifices made by players to help save the Cairns Taipans. Darnell also breaks down how he approached defending some of the greatest players in NBL history. Topics include: His current work as a teacher and basketball coach at Cleveland High School Watching his son Micale build his own basketball career in Australia Western Kentucky's 1992–93 team joining him in the school's Athletic Hall of Fame Representing Adelaide at the 1999 McDonald's Championship in Milan His time with Kinder Bologna and playing professionally in France and Germany How Adelaide figured out Brian Goorjian 's South East Melbourne Magic and Victoria Titans teams The team chemistry and off-court bonding behind Adelaide's back-to-back championships The championship Adelaide believed it should have won in 1999–2000 When the chemistry of the championship 36ers began to disappear The internal tension surrounding Adelaide's 2000–01 season His missed free throw and the heartbreaking end to Adelaide's 2001 playoff run What happened inside the silent Adelaide changeroom after the loss Why the 2001 defeat convinced him to leave Adelaide and return to Europe Becoming teammates with Damon Lowery at the Wollongong Hawks The Taipans entering voluntary administration and players accepting major salary cuts How the Cairns community helped prevent the club from disappearing How he approached defending Andrew Gaze , Ricky Grace , Daryl McDonald, Shane Heal and other NBL legends Whether he would consider returning to Australia in a coaching role All of this and a whole lot more...

Support Aussie Hoopla: We are doing everything we can to keep these podcasts going, but the costs to produce, host, and track down guests are adding up. If you enjoy the show and want to help keep it alive, you can support us in two ways: Buy a T shirt or Buy Me A Coffee Every contribution goes directly toward keeping aussiehoopla.com online and the podcast running. ---------- Two-time NBL champion Matt Garrison joins the podcast to reflect on winning back-to-back championships with two different teams, helping the Wollongong Hawks claim their first NBL title in 2001 before joining the Adelaide 36ers and winning it all again in 2002. Host Dan Boyce chats with Garrison about arriving in Wollongong as a mid-season import, accepting an unusual role coming off the bench, the Hawks' controversial 2001 semi-final win over Adelaide and the championship run that followed. Garrison also discusses leaving Wollongong for Cairns, being released by the Taipans after only 10 games, joining the very Adelaide team he had eliminated the previous season and becoming the first player in NBL history to win consecutive championships with different clubs. The episode also covers his college career, playing professionally around the world, his opportunity with the Los Angeles Clippers, returning to Wollongong and his later success playing and coaching in Japan. Topics include: What Matt Garrison is doing today Growing up in Montana and his college basketball career Beginning his professional career overseas Arriving in Australia as a mid-season replacement for Wollongong Scoring 24 points in his first NBL game Going from a high-scoring import to coming off the bench for the Hawks Playing alongside Glen Saville, Mat Campbell, Melvin Thomas and Damon Lowery The controversial Damon Lowery foul that sent Wollongong to the 2001 Grand Final Winning Wollongong's first NBL championship Why he left the Hawks for Cairns after winning the title Being released by the Taipans after only 10 games How quickly Adelaide came calling after his Cairns exit Joining the same 36ers players he had controversially eliminated the previous season Playing for Brendan Joyce compared with Phil Smyth Playing alongside Brett Maher and Willie Farley Winning the 2002 NBL championship with Adelaide Becoming the first player to win consecutive NBL titles with different clubs Which championship meant more: Wollongong or Adelaide Returning to Wollongong for the 2002/03 season His final NBL season and career-high 29-point game Earning an opportunity with the Los Angeles Clippers Playing in Lebanon and Japan after leaving the NBL Winning back-to-back three-point contests in Japan Returning to Japan as a head coach and winning Coach of the Year Highlights and hurdles from his basketball career All of this and a whole lot more...

Support Aussie Hoopla: We are doing everything we can to keep these podcasts going, but the costs to produce, host, and track down guests are adding up. If you enjoy the show and want to help keep it alive, you can support us in two ways: Buy a T shirt or Buy Me A Coffee Every contribution goes directly toward keeping aussiehoopla.com online and the podcast running. ---------- Perth Wildcats head coach John Rillie joins the podcast to discuss the pressure of coaching one of the NBL's most successful clubs, the expectations that come with the Red Army, and what he has been building since taking over in 2022. Host Dan Boyce chats with Rillie about Perth's recent semi-final exits, the scrutiny around the club, Bryce Cotton's departure, the growth of players like Ben Henshall and Elijah Pepper, and how the Wildcats are shaping their next championship contender. Topics include: Taking over the Perth Wildcats after the finals streak ended The pressure of coaching Perth Fan criticism and the 2023 backlash The Trevor Gleeson era and modern NBL expectations Bryce Cotton's final season and departure The Mason Jones situation and roster fit Developing Ben Henshall, Elijah Pepper and Alexandre Sarr How Perth's style has evolved under Rillie Reviewing last season and the Wildcats' defensive jump What Perth still needs to become a Championship Series team All of this and a whole lot more...

Support Aussie Hoopla: We are doing everything we can to keep these podcasts going, but the costs to produce, host, and track down guests are adding up. If you enjoy the show and want to help keep it alive, you can support us in two ways: Buy a T shirt or Buy Me A Coffee Every contribution goes directly toward keeping aussiehoopla.com online and the podcast running. ---------- Former Sydney Kings and Townsville Crocodiles big man Rolan Roberts joins the podcast to reflect on his time in Australia, including joining the Kings mid-season and helping them complete their historic 2005 NBL three-peat. Host Dan Boyce chats with Roberts about playing under Brian Goorjian, becoming a key interior presence for Sydney, the shoulder injury suffered during the 2005 All-Star dunk contest, and his later return to the NBL with Townsville alongside Corey Williams and Trevor Gleeson. Topics include: Where has Rolan been since we last saw him in the NBL (2:00) Sydney's 2005 championship run (8:30) Playing college basketball with Southern Illinois (8:00) Starting his professional career overseas (14:00) Arriving in Australia with the Sydney Kings (20:00) Playing for Brian Goorjian (27:00) The shoulder injury from the dunk contest that ended his season (34:00) Returning to the NBL with Townsville in 2009 (39:00) Being dumbfounded Trevor Gleeson would win NBL titles and how diffucult it was to play with Corey 'Homicide' Williams (43:00) His career in France, Portugal and across Europe (50:00) All of this and a whole lot more...

We are doing everything we can to keep these podcasts going, but the costs to produce, host, and track down guests are adding up. If you enjoy the show and want to help keep it alive, you can support us in two ways: Buy a T shirt or Buy Me A Coffee Every contribution goes directly toward keeping aussiehoopla.com online and the podcast running. ---------- Former Adelaide 36ers star Julius Hodge joins the podcast to reflect on one of the most dominant short stints in NBL history, his journey from the NBA to Australia, and the impact he made during the 2007/08 season. Host Dan Boyce chats with Hodge about his incredible all-around performances, earning All-NBL Third Team honours, and what it was like adjusting to the Australian game mid-season. The episode also dives into his time playing alongside key 36ers teammates, his perspective on the league, and the circumstances around his time in Adelaide and beyond. Topics include: His coaching journey (2:00) New York basketball (8:00) Entering the NBA draft (16:00) Time in the NBA (22:00) Being shot (39:00) Arriving in Adelaide (44:00) Phil Smyth's surprise firing (53:00) Money issues with the 36ers (59:00) Stepping on Brett Mahers name (1:03:00) His career after leaving Melbourne (1:06:00) Highlights and hurdles from his career (1:10:00) All of this and a whole lot more...

Support Aussie Hoopla: We are doing everything we can to keep these podcasts going, but the costs to produce, host, and track down guests are adding up. If you enjoy the show and want to help keep it alive, you can support us in two ways: Buy a T shirt or Buy Me A Coffee Every contribution goes directly toward keeping aussiehoopla.com online and the podcast running. ---------- Current head coach of the Akita Northern Happinets, Mick Downer joins the podcast to discuss the differences between coaching in Japan and the NBL, his stints with Perth, Cairns, Brisbane and Adelaide over the past 25 years, and his time with the Australian Boomers program. Host Dan Boyce chats with Downer about what he learnt stepping into the head coaching role in a non-English speaking country, as well as providing updates on NBL talent in Japan like Keanu Pinder, Yanni Wetzell, Trey Kell, Vic Law, DJ Newbill and plenty more. Topics include: Thoughts on the NBL Finals (4:00) Stepping into his first professional head coaching role in Japan (6:00) Learnings from coaches like Aaron Fearne, Andrej Lemanis and CJ Bruton (14:00) Helping create the 'Tagging System' for offensive rebounding and how it work (17:00) Differences between the Japanese league and the NBL (27:00) Why more Australians are heading to Japan, and whether that should concern the NBL (41:00) Mick's coaching future and plans (48:00) All of this and a whole lot more...

Originally recorded in 2018 — this episode has been remastered and re-released following the passing of Australian basketball legend Ken Cole. Ken Cole, a championship-winning coach of the Adelaide 36ers and architect of the iconic 1986 "Invincibles" season (24–2), left a lasting impact on basketball in Australia — as a coach, leader, and later President of the Sixers. In this interview, Ken reflects on his return to the Adelaide 36ers, his battle with multiple myeloma, and shares unforgettable stories from the early days of the NBL — from the birth of the game in Australia to the evolution of imports, trash talking, and player development. This episode also captures Ken's thoughts at the time on the Adelaide 36ers roster, the Mitch Creek NBA situation, and what it takes to build a winning culture. This remastered version features improved audio quality. Vale Ken Cole. In this episode: • Why Ken returned to the Adelaide 36ers (2:00) • Battling cancer and mindset for survival (9:30) • Thoughts on the 2018 Adelaide 36ers roster (19:30) • The 1986 championship "Invincibles" season (36:00) • Basketball in Australia in the 60s & 70s (54:00) • The origins of trash talking in Australia (1:43:00) • Classic NBL stories from the early days (1:47:00) • Imports in the NBL — should they be limited? (1:54:00) • Mitch Creek & the Brooklyn Nets situation (2:01:00) • Funding grassroots basketball development (2:06:00) • Eddie Palubinskas stories (2:14:00)

Support Aussie Hoopla: We are doing everything we can to keep these podcasts going, but the costs to produce, host, and track down guests are adding up. If you enjoy the show and want to help keep it alive, you can support us in two ways: Buy a T shirt or Buy Me A Coffee Every contribution goes directly toward keeping aussiehoopla.com online and the podcast running. ---------- Former Sydney Kings and Illawarra Hawks owner Dorry Kordahi takes us inside his latest venture — buying into the Lebanese Basketball League and becoming president of the NSA Falcons. Host Dan Boyce chats with Kordahi on why the LBL is one of the most powerful basketball markets in the world (and why the timing to invest is right now), how the opportunity came together through long-time connections, and what he's already doing on the ground. From there, the conversation shifts back home. Kordahi addresses ongoing talk around NBL expansion — including his interest in a second Sydney franchise and his long-running push to help bring the Newcastle Falcons back into the league. He explains why stadium infrastructure is the biggest barrier, why government support is essential, and how the NBL's growth over the past decade has changed the way "small market" clubs can recruit and compete. Topics include: Kordahi's move into Lebanese basketball and why the LBL market makes sense (0:30) How the NSA Falcons deal came together — and why he took a "rebuild" job again (2:30) His role as club president, early meetings in Beirut, and what he wants to change (4:30) Bridging Lebanon and Australia — exhibitions, coaching pathways, and NBL credibility overseas (5:30) Why the NBL is viewed as a premier league in Lebanon — and what that unlocks (6:30) Second Sydney team talk — and whether Lebanon closes the door on NBL ownership (7:00) Newcastle Falcons expansion push: history, market size, and what's holding it back (7:45) The stadium problem in Australia — and why it limits growth for the entire sport (10:00) Kings vs Hawks from the inside: big club vs small club realities (12:00) Rivalry mindset, "underdog fuel", and how the Hawks used the Kings as motivation (13:30) How the league has changed: balance, recruitment, and why the "small team stigma" is fading (15:30) What needs to happen for the NBL's 11th team to become real (18:00) Visit dunk.com.au for your next set of basketball uniforms. Head to Aussie Hoopla to check out previous podcasts featuring: Australian Basketball Legends: Luc Longley , Andrew Gaze , Shane Heal , Mark Bradtke , David Andersen , Andrew Vlahov , Phil Smyth , CJ Bruton , Chris Anstey , Brett Maher , Glen Saville , Sam MacKinnon , John Rillie , Tony Ronaldson , Damian Martin , Brad Newley Current NBL Stars: Bryce Cotton , Chris Goulding , Xavier Cooks , Tyler Harvey , Dejan Vasiljevic , Jordan Hunter , Flynn Cameron , Keli Leaupepe , Jason Cadee , Mitch McCarron , Anthony Drmic , Luke Travers , Sam Froling , Jesse Wagstaff Our Finest Coaching Minds: Brian Goorjian , Barry Barnes, Joey Wright , Adrian Hurley, Adam Forde, Aaron Fearne , Rob Beveridge, Ian Stacker , Shawn Dennis , Dean Vickerman , Trevor Gleeson, Lindsey Gaze, Ken Cole , Will Weaver, Bruce Palmer NBA Stars Past & Present: Andrew Bogut , Matthew Dellavedova , Stephen Jackson , Jack McVeigh , Randy Livingston, Torrey Craig , Jack White , Acie Earl , Josh Childress , Reggie Smith , Todd Lichti , Ryan Broekhoff , Doug Overton The NBL's Greatest Imports: Leroy Loggins , Darryl McDonald , Ricky Grace , Cal Bruton , Derek Rucker , Leon Trimmingham , Scott Fisher , Lanard Copeland , Dwayne McClain , Darnell Mee , Shawn Redhage , Al Green , Steve Woodberry , Doug Overton , Kevin Lisch The Men In Control: Larry Kestelman, Mal Speed, Paul Maley , Vince Crivelli, Jeremy Loeliger, Chris Pongrass, Jeff Van Groningen, Bob Turner , Danny Mills Follow @AussieHoopla on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or email us at info@aussiehoopla.com

We wrap up our seven-part deep dive into one of Aussie hoops' fiercest rivalries — Sydney vs Illawarra — as the modern era turns the heat all the way up and the Freeway Series swings wildly from season to season. Host Dan Boyce picks things up after the Hawks' rebirth under new ownership and Brian Goorjian , a fresh start that quickly turns into a brutal reality check — including the worst season in franchise history (3–25) — before the club pulls off one of the great turnarounds in recent NBL history, storming back to win their second NBL championship . From there, the rivalry doesn't cool off — it escalates . We track the on-court blowouts, the nail-biters, the flashpoints, and the personality clashes that only seem to grow when these two clubs share the same building. We also hit Goorjian's return to Sydney, and bring it right up to today , where the Kings and Hawks have traded sweeps in back-to-back seasons , and the balance of power has flipped yet again heading into the current finals series. Topics include: The Hawks v Kings semi-finals series in 2023 (2:00) The Kings' rise under Chase Buford and how their championship window re-opened (12:00) Illawarra's post-Goorjian transition, the roster drain, Hawks injuries woes, and the worst season ever (25:00) Hawks V Kings becomes must see Christmas viewing (45:00) The Hawks claim their 2nd championship (49:00) The rivalry today and what it means to many Hawks/Kings legends (108:00) Visit dunk.com.au for your next set of basketball uniforms. Head to Aussie Hoopla to check out previous podcasts featuring: Australian Basketball Legends: Luc Longley , Andrew Gaze , Shane Heal , Mark Bradtke , David Andersen , Andrew Vlahov , Phil Smyth , CJ Bruton , Chris Anstey , Brett Maher , Glen Saville , Sam MacKinnon , John Rillie , Tony Ronaldson , Damian Martin , Brad Newley Current NBL Stars: Bryce Cotton , Chris Goulding , Xavier Cooks , Tyler Harvey , Dejan Vasiljevic , Jordan Hunter , Flynn Cameron , Keli Leaupepe , Jason Cadee , Mitch McCarron , Anthony Drmic , Luke Travers , Sam Froling , Jesse Wagstaff Our Finest Coaching Minds: Brian Goorjian , Barry Barnes, Joey Wright , Adrian Hurley, Adam Forde, Aaron Fearne , Rob Beveridge, Ian Stacker , Shawn Dennis , Dean Vickerman , Trevor Gleeson, Lindsey Gaze, Ken Cole , Will Weaver, Bruce Palmer NBA Stars Past & Present: Andrew Bogut , Matthew Dellavedova , Stephen Jackson , Jack McVeigh , Randy Livingston, Torrey Craig , Jack White , Acie Earl , Josh Childress , Reggie Smith , Todd Lichti , Ryan Broekhoff , Doug Overton The NBL's Greatest Imports: Leroy Loggins , Darryl McDonald , Ricky Grace , Cal Bruton , Derek Rucker , Leon Trimmingham , Scott Fisher , Lanard Copeland , Dwayne McClain , Darnell Mee , Shawn Redhage , Al Green , Steve Woodberry , Doug Overton , Kevin Lisch The Men In Control: Larry Kestelman, Mal Speed, Paul Maley , Vince Crivelli, Jeremy Loeliger, Chris Pongrass, Jeff Van Groningen, Bob Turner , Danny Mills Follow @AussieHoopla on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or email us at info@aussiehoopla.com

We continue diving deeper into one of Aussie hoops' fiercest rivalries — Sydney vs Illawarra — picking things up as LaMelo Ball and his rookie of the year season in 2019 that propelled the Hawks into the global spotlight, setting NBL viewership and attendance records, while the Kings reload under Will Weaver and push for a championship in a season that ends in chaos. Host Dan Boyce breaks down LaMelo's viral debut, his back-to-back triple-doubles, and the impact of the injury to Aaron Brooks to Illawarra playoff hopes, before diving into the record-setting 17,514 crowd that packed Qudos Bank Arena for Hawks v Kings — and the off-court collapse that followed. Then it's onto Sydney's rise to the top of the ladder, a Grand Final showdown with Perth, and how COVID ended it all. Finally, we trace the fallout in Wollongong — including liquidation, $2 million in debt, and the NBL's intervention — as Dorry Kordahi steps in to rescue the franchise and rebuild from the ground up. Featuring game and stat breakdowns from across the season, this episode blends rivalry flashpoints, behind-the-scenes turmoil, and the moment the rivalry took centre stage for the entire basketball world. Topics include: 2018 see's the arrival of Andrew Bogut (3:30) LaMelo Ball makes his NBL debut drives millions of eyeballs to the NBL (10:30) The record-breaking Qudos Bank Arena game (12:30) The Kings reload with Ware, Tate, Bogut and dominate the regular season at 20–8 (29:00) Sydney forfeit the Grand Final to Perth with COVID looming (29:00) Illawarra collapse due to over $2 million in debt and Dorry Kordahi and Brian Goorjian rebuild the Hawks (32:30) The NBL removes 'Illawarra' from the Hawks name (34:30) Brian Goorjian on swapping sides from the Kings to the Hawks (55:00) Spy-Gate - The Kings point the finger at Sydney for spying on their practices (1:13:00) Visit dunk.com.au for your next set of basketball uniforms. Head to Aussie Hoopla to check out previous podcasts featuring: Australian Basketball Legends: Luc Longley , Andrew Gaze , Shane Heal , Mark Bradtke , David Andersen , Andrew Vlahov , Phil Smyth , CJ Bruton , Chris Anstey , Brett Maher , Glen Saville , Sam MacKinnon , John Rillie , Tony Ronaldson , Damian Martin , Brad Newley Current NBL Stars: Bryce Cotton , Chris Goulding , Xavier Cooks , Tyler Harvey , Dejan Vasiljevic , Jordan Hunter , Flynn Cameron , Keli Leaupepe , Jason Cadee , Mitch McCarron , Anthony Drmic , Luke Travers , Sam Froling , Jesse Wagstaff Our Finest Coaching Minds: Brian Goorjian , Barry Barnes, Joey Wright , Adrian Hurley, Adam Forde, Aaron Fearne , Rob Beveridge, Ian Stacker , Shawn Dennis , Dean Vickerman , Trevor Gleeson, Lindsey Gaze, Ken Cole , Will Weaver, Bruce Palmer NBA Stars Past & Present: Andrew Bogut , Matthew Dellavedova , Stephen Jackson , Jack McVeigh , Randy Livingston, Torrey Craig , Jack White , Acie Earl , Josh Childress , Reggie Smith , Todd Lichti , Ryan Broekhoff , Doug Overton The NBL's Greatest Imports: Leroy Loggins , Darryl McDonald , Ricky Grace , Cal Bruton , Derek Rucker , Leon Trimmingham , Scott Fisher , Lanard Copeland , Dwayne McClain , Darnell Mee , Shawn Redhage , Al Green , Steve Woodberry , Doug Overton , Kevin Lisch The Men In Control: Larry Kestelman, Mal Speed, Paul Maley , Vince Crivelli, Jeremy Loeliger, Chris Pongrass, Jeff Van Groningen, Bob Turner , Danny Mills Follow @AussieHoopla on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or email us at info@aussiehoopla.com

We continue diving deeper into one of Aussie hoops' fiercest rivalries — Sydney vs Illawarra — picking things up right after the Kings' 2005 three-peat sweep of the Hawks and tracking how the "Freeway Series" evolved through the chaos of Firepower, the Kings' disappearance, the rivalry's rebirth in 2010, and the Hawks' huge 2015/16 rebrand and recruiting spree. Host Dan Boyce breaks down the 2005/06 shootouts (and that bizarre Roland Roberts dunk contest injury), the Hawks' underrated 2006 campaign, and the Kings' near-miss 4-peat that ended at the hands of Chris Anstey and Melbourne, before shifting into the biggest off-court implosion in Sydney hoops history — the Firepower Kings era — and how Glen Saville's move north became a "kick in the guts" moment for Wollongong fans (including a young Xavier Cooks ). Featuring first-hand accounts from Glen Saville , Brian Goorjian , Tim Coenraad and Greg Hubbard , this episode blends rivalry game recaps, locker-room stories, and the behind-the-scenes reality of the NBL's wildest period — from bounced cheques and broken promises, to the Hawks' "three-headed monster" era and the viral beer tipping incident as we approach the modern day rivalry between the two clubs. Topics include: How the rivalry reset in 2005/06 — opening night at the Sydney Entertainment Centre and two more Kings nail-biters (04:25) Roland Roberts' bizarre slam dunk contest injury, the import swap to Sedric Webber , and monster seasons from CJ Bruton and Cortez Groves (05:52) The Kings falling short against Chris Anstey's Tigers in the Grand Final (07:46) Glen Saville joins Sydney (10:26) The Firepower Kings and Sydney's 2008 collapse (17:08) The rivalry returns in 2010 with the "Resurrection" Kings and Gary Ervin's MVP season for the Hawks (33:25) 2015/16: The Hawks become Illawarra again and the Marcus Thornton beer incident goes viral (52:06) 2016/17: Hawks lose Lisch to Sydney and the Kings welcome Andrew Gaze (59:17) 2017/18: NBLxNBA games and the Kings begin to rise (1:08:32) Visit dunk.com.au for your next set of basketball uniforms. Head to Aussie Hoopla to check out previous podcasts featuring: Australian Basketball Legends: Luc Longley , Andrew Gaze , Shane Heal , Mark Bradtke , David Andersen , Andrew Vlahov , Phil Smyth , CJ Bruton , Chris Anstey , Brett Maher , Glen Saville , Sam MacKinnon , John Rillie , Tony Ronaldson , Damian Martin , Brad Newley Current NBL Stars: Bryce Cotton , Chris Goulding , Xavier Cooks , Tyler Harvey , Dejan Vasiljevic , Jordan Hunter , Flynn Cameron , Keli Leaupepe , Jason Cadee , Mitch McCarron , Anthony Drmic , Luke Travers , Sam Froling , Jesse Wagstaff Our Finest Coaching Minds: Brian Goorjian , Barry Barnes, Joey Wright , Adrian Hurley, Adam Forde, Aaron Fearne , Rob Beveridge, Ian Stacker , Shawn Dennis , Dean Vickerman , Trevor Gleeson, Lindsey Gaze, Ken Cole , Will Weaver, Bruce Palmer NBA Stars Past & Present: Andrew Bogut , Matthew Dellavedova , Stephen Jackson , Jack McVeigh , Randy Livingston, Torrey Craig , Jack White , Acie Earl , Josh Childress , Reggie Smith , Todd Lichti , Ryan Broekhoff , Doug Overton The NBL's Greatest Imports: Leroy Loggins , Darryl McDonald , Ricky Grace , Cal Bruton , Derek Rucker , Leon Trimmingham , Scott Fisher , Lanard Copeland , Dwayne McClain , Darnell Mee , Shawn Redhage , Al Green , Steve Woodberry , Doug Overton , Kevin Lisch The Men In Control: Larry Kestelman, Mal Speed, Paul Maley , Vince Crivelli, Jeremy Loeliger, Chris Pongrass, Jeff Van Groningen, Bob Turner , Danny Mills Follow @AussieHoopla on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or email us at info@aussiehoopla.com

We continue diving deeper dive into one of Aussie hoops' fiercest rivalries — Sydney vs Illawarra — picking things up from the Wollongong Hawks' historic 2001 championship and tracking how the Kings and Hawks battled for New South Wales bragging rights through the mid-2000s. Host Dan Boyce revisits Wollongong's underdog run to become the first NSW club to win an NBL title, then jumps into Sydney's response — the arrival of Brian Goorjian, the recruitment of Chris Williams and Kavossy Franklin, and the three-year stretch that saw the Kings finally shed the "Violet Crumbles" tag and dominate the league. Featuring first-hand accounts from Glenn Saville, Shane Heal, Bill Tomlinson and Brian Goorjian, this episode blends locker-room stories, X-and-O breakdowns and playoff memories to show how the "Freeway Series" evolved from a regional feud into a clash between genuine title contenders. Topics include: How the 2001 Hawks title changed the rivalry and put a target on Wollongong's back (02:00) Glenn Saville on trying to defend the crown in 2001–02 and suddenly becoming the hunted (05:00) Brett Brown to the Spurs, the Titans folding and how Brian Goorjian ended up in Sydney (13:50) Bill Tomlinson on recruiting Chris Williams, early doubts about the Kings' chemistry and fixing the "Violet Crumbles" reputation (16:00) Shane Heal's version of the 2003 title run — ownership drama, Chris Williams' rise and finally delivering a championship to Sydney (21:30) Goorjian breaks down the 2003 finals, the comeback vs Perth and how the Kings' culture flipped overnight (27:00) Inside the 2003–04 repeat: Nielsen's MVP breakout, CJ Bruton's arrival and losing Jason Smith mid-season (32:30) 2004–05 sees both clubs become true championship at the same time and culminate with an all-NSW grand final (38:30) Goorjian on the 1–1–3 zone that Wollongong "had no answer for" and how the Kings swept the 2005 series (48:00) Glenn Saville's memories of facing that Kings juggernaut and what the 2005 grand final meant to Hawks players and fans (54:00) Visit dunk.com.au for your next set of basketball uniforms. Head to Aussie Hoopla to check out previous podcasts featuring: Australian Basketball Legends: Luc Longley , Andrew Gaze , Shane Heal , Mark Bradtke , David Andersen , Andrew Vlahov , Phil Smyth , CJ Bruton , Chris Anstey , Brett Maher , Glen Saville , Sam MacKinnon , John Rillie , Tony Ronaldson , Damian Martin , Brad Newley Current NBL Stars: Bryce Cotton , Chris Goulding , Xavier Cooks , Tyler Harvey , Dejan Vasiljevic , Jordan Hunter , Flynn Cameron , Keli Leaupepe , Jason Cadee , Mitch McCarron , Anthony Drmic , Luke Travers , Sam Froling , Jesse Wagstaff Our Finest Coaching Minds: Brian Goorjian , Barry Barnes, Joey Wright , Adrian Hurley, Adam Forde, Aaron Fearne , Rob Beveridge, Ian Stacker , Shawn Dennis , Dean Vickerman , Trevor Gleeson, Lindsey Gaze, Ken Cole , Will Weaver, Bruce Palmer NBA Stars Past & Present: Andrew Bogut , Matthew Dellavedova , Stephen Jackson , Jack McVeigh , Randy Livingston, Torrey Craig , Jack White , Acie Earl , Josh Childress , Reggie Smith , Todd Lichti , Ryan Broekhoff , Doug Overton The NBL's Greatest Imports: Leroy Loggins , Darryl McDonald , Ricky Grace , Cal Bruton , Derek Rucker , Leon Trimmingham , Scott Fisher , Lanard Copeland , Dwayne McClain , Darnell Mee , Shawn Redhage , Al Green , Steve Woodberry , Doug Overton , Kevin Lisch The Men In Control: Larry Kestelman, Mal Speed, Paul Maley , Vince Crivelli, Jeremy Loeliger, Chris Pongrass, Jeff Van Groningen, Bob Turner , Danny Mills Follow @AussieHoopla on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or email us at info@aussiehoopla.com

We continue our deep dive into one of Australian basketball's greatest rivalries... Sydney versus Illawarra. This episode we continue on through the late 1990s and into the Hawks' historic 2001 championship run. Host Dan Boyce picks up the rivalry from 1995 onward, exploring the coaching swaps, player defections, and the rise of a new generation of stars — from Shane Heal 's move to Sydney and Marcus Timmons ' breakout in Illawarra, to the emergence of Glen Saville , who would soon become the face of the Hawks. Featuring first-hand accounts from Bob Turner , Shane Heal, Gordie McLeod , Greg Hubbard , Bill Tomlinson, Stephen Jackson , and Glen Saville, this episode covers a turbulent era for both clubs — the Kings' struggles to live up to their star power, and the Hawks' transformation from underdog to champion under Brendan Joyce . Topics include: Alan Black's move from Illawarra to Sydney and the fallout that followed (06:00) Shane Heal on leaving Brisbane, joining Sydney, and facing the "Violet Crumbles" stigma (08:00) Gordie McLeod on discovering Glen Saville and his early Hawks journey (11:30) Marcus Timmons' 30-point debut and Illawarra's rebuild under Brendan Joyce (16:00) Stephen Jackson's short but memorable stint with the Kings (20:00) Wollongong's rise, the 2001 playoff run, and Damon Lowery's legendary free throws (38:00) The Hawks claim NSW's first NBL title — Saville named Finals MVP (40:00) Visit dunk.com.au for your next set of basketball uniforms. Head to Aussie Hoopla to check out previous podcasts featuring: Australian Basketball Legends: Luc Longley , Andrew Gaze , Shane Heal , Mark Bradtke , David Andersen , Andrew Vlahov , Phil Smyth , CJ Bruton , Chris Anstey , Brett Maher , Glen Saville , Sam MacKinnon , John Rillie , Tony Ronaldson , Damian Martin , Brad Newley Current NBL Stars: Bryce Cotton , Chris Goulding , Xavier Cooks , Tyler Harvey , Dejan Vasiljevic , Jordan Hunter , Flynn Cameron , Keli Leaupepe , Jason Cadee , Mitch McCarron , Anthony Drmic , Luke Travers , Sam Froling , Jesse Wagstaff Our Finest Coaching Minds: Brian Goorjian , Barry Barnes, Joey Wright , Adrian Hurley, Adam Forde, Aaron Fearne , Rob Beveridge, Ian Stacker , Shawn Dennis , Dean Vickerman , Trevor Gleeson, Lindsey Gaze, Ken Cole , Will Weaver, Bruce Palmer NBA Stars Past & Present: Andrew Bogut , Matthew Dellavedova , Stephen Jackson , Jack McVeigh , Randy Livingston, Torrey Craig , Jack White , Acie Earl , Josh Childress , Reggie Smith , Todd Lichti , Ryan Broekhoff , Doug Overton The NBL's Greatest Imports: Leroy Loggins , Darryl McDonald , Ricky Grace , Cal Bruton , Derek Rucker , Leon Trimmingham , Scott Fisher , Lanard Copeland , Dwayne McClain , Darnell Mee , Shawn Redhage , Al Green , Steve Woodberry , Doug Overton , Kevin Lisch The Men In Control: Larry Kestelman, Mal Speed, Paul Maley , Vince Crivelli, Jeremy Loeliger, Chris Pongrass, Jeff Van Groningen, Bob Turner , Danny Mills Follow @AussieHoopla on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or email us at info@aussiehoopla.com

We continue our deep dive into one of Aussie hoops' fiercest rivalries — Sydney vs Illawarra — looking at the success of both teams during the 1990s. Host Dan Boyce picks up where Episode 1 left off, bringing in Hawks legend Gordie McLeod to get his throughts on whether his move to Sydney in 1983 was the starting point of the Kings v Hawks rivalry, before moving their the success of both teams during the 1990s Featuring first-hand accounts from Gordie McLeod, Greg Hubbard , Dwayne McClain , and Bob Turner , this episode continues to blends personal stories of the NBL's boom period, while continuing to flesh out the history of the Hawks v Kings rivalry season by season. Topics include: McLeod on how the feud predates the Kings: state-league roots and the Snakepit lore (02:00) The early Snakepit atmosphere and crowd legends (24:00) 1988–89 Kings v Hawks: Norman Taylor's 41-point explosion as told by Greg Hubbard (33:30) Dwayne McClain and Bob Turner discuss how they helped turn Sydney into a contender (41:30) The 1993 defection: Greg Hubbard's first return to Beaton Park in purple and gold (48:30) Why the 1993 Kings imploded — McClary's exit, McClain's frustrations, and Bob Turner's rebuild (52:00) Discovering Leon Trimingham and Mario Donaldson — the new era of the Kings (56:00) Visit dunk.com.au for your next set of basketball uniforms. Head to Aussie Hoopla to check out previous podcasts featuring: Australian Basketball Legends: Luc Longley , Andrew Gaze , Shane Heal , Mark Bradtke , David Andersen , Andrew Vlahov , Phil Smyth , CJ Bruton , Chris Anstey , Brett Maher , Glen Saville , Sam MacKinnon , John Rillie , Tony Ronaldson , Damian Martin , Brad Newley Current NBL Stars: Bryce Cotton , Chris Goulding , Xavier Cooks , Tyler Harvey , Dejan Vasiljevic , Jordan Hunter , Flynn Cameron , Keli Leaupepe , Jason Cadee , Mitch McCarron , Anthony Drmic , Luke Travers , Sam Froling , Jesse Wagstaff Our Finest Coaching Minds: Brian Goorjian , Barry Barnes, Joey Wright , Adrian Hurley, Adam Forde, Aaron Fearne , Rob Beveridge, Ian Stacker , Shawn Dennis , Dean Vickerman , Trevor Gleeson, Lindsey Gaze, Ken Cole , Will Weaver, Bruce Palmer NBA Stars Past & Present: Andrew Bogut , Matthew Dellavedova , Stephen Jackson , Jack McVeigh , Randy Livingston, Torrey Craig , Jack White , Acie Earl , Josh Childress , Reggie Smith , Todd Lichti , Ryan Broekhoff , Doug Overton The NBL's Greatest Imports: Leroy Loggins , Darryl McDonald , Ricky Grace , Cal Bruton , Derek Rucker , Leon Trimmingham , Scott Fisher , Lanard Copeland , Dwayne McClain , Darnell Mee , Shawn Redhage , Al Green , Steve Woodberry , Doug Overton , Kevin Lisch The Men In Control: Larry Kestelman, Mal Speed, Paul Maley , Vince Crivelli, Jeremy Loeliger, Chris Pongrass, Jeff Van Groningen, Bob Turner , Danny Mills Follow @AussieHoopla on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or email us at info@aussiehoopla.com

We crack open one of Aussie hoops' spiciest grudge matches: Sydney vs Illawarra. Host Dan Boyce traces the rivalry back before the Kings even existed—into state-league days at the Snakepit—then follows it through the 1986 replay controversy, the Kings' 1988 merger and rise, and the big-city v small-town energy that's fuelled decades of heat. Featuring first-hand stories from Bob Turner, Greg Hubbard and Chuck Harmison, this episode blends history, on-court flashpoints, and off-court theatre to show how the "Freeway Series" became must-watch basketball. Topics include: What this series is and why the rivalry matters (02:00) How the feud predates the Kings: state-league roots and the Snakepit lore (04:00) The 1986 "replay game" drama and why it still stings (12:00) Remembering Robert Scrigni and the emotion of 1987 (20:00) The Snakepit as a sixth man: noise, power cuts, and balcony bar tales (23:00) Birth of the Kings ('88): merger, marketing, and turning Sydney into a show (37:00) Early flashpoints and defections that super-charged the hate (49:30) Visit dunk.com.au for your next set of basketball uniforms. Head to Aussie Hoopla to check out previous podcasts featuring: Australian Basketball Legends: Luc Longley , Andrew Gaze , Shane Heal , Mark Bradtke , David Andersen , Andrew Vlahov , Phil Smyth , CJ Bruton , Chris Anstey , Brett Maher , Glen Saville , Sam MacKinnon , John Rillie , Tony Ronaldson , Damian Martin , Brad Newley Current NBL Stars: Bryce Cotton , Chris Goulding , Xavier Cooks , Tyler Harvey , Dejan Vasiljevic , Jordan Hunter , Flynn Cameron , Keli Leaupepe , Jason Cadee , Mitch McCarron , Anthony Drmic , Luke Travers , Sam Froling , Jesse Wagstaff Our Finest Coaching Minds: Brian Goorjian , Barry Barnes, Joey Wright , Adrian Hurley, Adam Forde, Aaron Fearne , Rob Beveridge, Ian Stacker , Shawn Dennis , Dean Vickerman , Trevor Gleeson, Lindsey Gaze, Ken Cole , Will Weaver, Bruce Palmer NBA Stars Past & Present: Andrew Bogut , Matthew Dellavedova , Stephen Jackson , Jack McVeigh , Randy Livingston, Torrey Craig , Jack White , Acie Earl , Josh Childress , Reggie Smith , Todd Lichti , Ryan Broekhoff , Doug Overton The NBL's Greatest Imports: Leroy Loggins , Darryl McDonald , Ricky Grace , Cal Bruton , Derek Rucker , Leon Trimmingham , Scott Fisher , Lanard Copeland , Dwayne McClain , Darnell Mee , Shawn Redhage , Al Green , Steve Woodberry , Doug Overton , Kevin Lisch The Men In Control: Larry Kestelman, Mal Speed, Paul Maley , Vince Crivelli, Jeremy Loeliger, Chris Pongrass, Jeff Van Groningen, Bob Turner , Danny Mills Follow @AussieHoopla on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or email us at info@aussiehoopla.com

Brian Wethers shares his journey from a standout NCAA career at Cal and NBA aspirations, to becoming one of the most explosive imports in Australian basketball during the mid-2000s. He breaks down the Pirates' underdog rise in 2004 under Adrian Hurley, his dynamic partnership with Kavossy Franklin, and the unforgettable playoff push that followed. We also revisit his return to the league with New Zealand, a blistering run of form that included multiple 30-point nights before injury struck. Wethers opens up about how the game has evolved since then, what came next after his playing days, and the legacy he hopes to leave in Australian basketball circles. Topics include: 🏀 Life after the NBL and what he's doing now (2:00) 🏀 NCAA career at Cal and chasing the NBA dream (6:00) 🏀 Signing with the Hunter Pirates in 2003–04 (10:00) 🏀 How coaching styles have evolved since his playing days (19:00) 🏀 His MVP season and the Pirates' playoff run (25:00) 🏀 Signing with the NZ Breakers and battling back from injury (38:00) 🏀 Wrapping up his pro career (42:00) 🏀 Career highlights, hurdles, and moments that still stick with him (45:00) Visit dunk.com.au for your next set of basketball uniforms. Head to Aussie Hoopla to check out previous podcasts featuring: Australian Basketball Legends: Luc Longley , Andrew Gaze , Shane Heal , Mark Bradtke , David Andersen , Andrew Vlahov , Phil Smyth , CJ Bruton , Chris Anstey , Brett Maher , Sam MacKinnon , John Rillie , Tony Ronaldson , Damian Martin , Brad Newley Current NBL Stars: Bryce Cotton , Chris Goulding , Xavier Cooks , Tyler Harvey , Dejan Vasiljevic , Jordan Hunter , Flynn Cameron , Keli Leaupepe , Jason Cadee , Mitch McCarron , Anthony Drmic , Luke Travers , Sam Froling , Jesse Wagstaff Our Finest Coaching Minds: Brian Goorjian , Barry Barnes, Joey Wright , Adrian Hurley, Adam Forde, Aaron Fearne , Rob Beveridge, Ian Stacker , Shawn Dennis , Dean Vickerman , Trevor Gleeson, Lindsey Gaze, Ken Cole , Will Weaver, Bruce Palmer NBA Stars Past & Present: Andrew Bogut , Matthew Dellavedova , Stephen Jackson , Jack McVeigh , Randy Livingston, Torrey Craig , Jack White , Acie Earl , Josh Childress , Reggie Smith , Todd Lichti , Ryan Broekhoff , Doug Overton The NBL's Greatest Imports: Leroy Loggins , Darryl McDonald , Ricky Grace , Cal Bruton , Derek Rucker , Leon Trimmingham , Scott Fisher , Lanard Copeland , Dwayne McClain , Darnell Mee , Shawn Redhage , Al Green , Steve Woodberry , Doug Overton , Kevin Lisch The Men In Control: Larry Kestelman, Mal Speed, Paul Maley , Vince Crivelli, Jeremy Loeliger, Chris Pongrass, Jeff Van Groningen, Bob Turner , Danny Mills Follow @AussieHoopla on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or email us at info@aussiehoopla.com

Fabijan Krslovic joins the podcast to reflect on his NBL journey so far, a 2024 championship run with the Tasmania JackJumpers, and what lies ahead in his new chapter with Melbourne United. Krslovic shares stories from his Boomers debut, his time as a junior alongside Ben Simmons and Dante Exum, and how he's consistently earned his place in the league through grit, defence, and leadership. We also dive into his college days in Montana, his first pro stint in Europe with Phoenix Hagen, and his role in building the JackJumpers' winning culture from day one. Topics include: 🏀 Playing for the Boomers in the FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers (2:00) 🏀 Representing Australia alongside Ben Simmons and Dante Exum at junior level (4:00) 🏀 The decision to leave Tasmania and sign with Melbourne United (14:00) 🏀 Playing in Germany during the 2024 off-season (18:00) 🏀 Being overlooked by fans and media—what keeps him earning minutes (21:00) 🏀 Breaking into the NBL as a development player in Cairns (24:30) 🏀 Falling one game short of the Grand Final in his second season (28:00) 🏀 Navigating a COVID-disrupted year with the Taipans (31:00) 🏀 Helping build a winning culture in Tasmania (35:00) 🏀 The JackJumpers' 2024 championship run (40:00) 🏀 The opportunity he sees with Melbourne United this season (48:00) Visit dunk.com.au for your next set of basketball uniforms. Head to Aussie Hoopla to check out previous podcasts featuring: Australian Basketball Legends: Luc Longley , Andrew Gaze , Shane Heal , Mark Bradtke , David Andersen , Andrew Vlahov , Phil Smyth , CJ Bruton , Chris Anstey , Brett Maher , Sam MacKinnon , John Rillie , Tony Ronaldson , Damian Martin , Brad Newley Current NBL Stars: Bryce Cotton , Chris Goulding , Xavier Cooks , Tyler Harvey , Dejan Vasiljevic , Jordan Hunter , Flynn Cameron , Keli Leaupepe , Jason Cadee , Mitch McCarron , Anthony Drmic , Luke Travers , Sam Froling , Jesse Wagstaff Our Finest Coaching Minds: Brian Goorjian , Barry Barnes, Joey Wright , Adrian Hurley, Adam Forde, Aaron Fearne , Rob Beveridge, Ian Stacker , Shawn Dennis , Dean Vickerman , Trevor Gleeson, Lindsey Gaze, Ken Cole , Will Weaver, Bruce Palmer NBA Stars Past & Present: Andrew Bogut , Matthew Dellavedova , Stephen Jackson , Jack McVeigh , Randy Livingston, Torrey Craig , Jack White , Acie Earl , Josh Childress , Reggie Smith , Todd Lichti , Ryan Broekhoff , Doug Overton The NBL's Greatest Imports: Leroy Loggins , Darryl McDonald , Ricky Grace , Cal Bruton , Derek Rucker , Leon Trimmingham , Scott Fisher , Lanard Copeland , Dwayne McClain , Darnell Mee , Shawn Redhage , Al Green , Steve Woodberry , Doug Overton , Kevin Lisch The Men In Control: Larry Kestelman, Mal Speed, Paul Maley , Vince Crivelli, Jeremy Loeliger, Chris Pongrass, Jeff Van Groningen, Bob Turner , Danny Mills Follow @AussieHoopla on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or email us at info@aussiehoopla.com

Jordan Hunter joins the podcast to reflect on his first season with South East Melbourne, his time with the Boomers, and how he's building a voice off the court through podcasting, filmmaking, and comedy. Hunter opens up about navigating the ups and downs of the Phoenix's 2024/25 campaign, how the team evolved under new leadership, and the real impact of Mike Kelly's mid-season departure. We also explore his off-season stint in Puerto Rico, international experience with the Boomers, and his passion for storytelling—both on stage and on screen. Topics include: 🏀 First year in South East Melbourne (2:00) 🏀 His budding career as a podcaster (6:00) 🏀 Off-season experiences in Puerto Rico (8:00) 🏀 Playing for the Boomers in FIBA qualifying games (13:00) 🏀 Thoughts on the Phoenix roster and how it's changed from last year (14:30) 🏀 Recapping last season's ups and downs with the Phoenix (18:00) 🏀 The true impact of Mike Kelly's exit (21:00) 🏀 His plans for film and cinema in the future (27:00) 🏀 Stand-up comedy stints and creative expression (30:00) 🏀 "At the Movies" with Dan and Jordan (35:00) 🏀 Are Australian coaches being overlooked for international hires? (45:00) 🏀 NBL players dealing with abuse from fans (50:00) Visit dunk.com.au for your next set of basketball uniforms. Head to Aussie Hoopla to check out previous podcasts featuring: Australian Basketball Legends: Luc Longley , Andrew Gaze , Shane Heal , Mark Bradtke , David Andersen , Andrew Vlahov , Phil Smyth , CJ Bruton , Chris Anstey , Brett Maher , Sam MacKinnon , John Rillie , Tony Ronaldson , Damian Martin , Brad Newley Current NBL Stars: Bryce Cotton , Chris Goulding , Xavier Cooks , Tyler Harvey , Dejan Vasiljevic , Jordan Hunter , Flynn Cameron , Keli Leaupepe , Jason Cadee , Mitch McCarron , Anthony Drmic , Luke Travers , Sam Froling , Jesse Wagstaff Our Finest Coaching Minds: Brian Goorjian , Barry Barnes, Joey Wright , Adrian Hurley, Adam Forde, Aaron Fearne , Rob Beveridge, Ian Stacker , Shawn Dennis , Dean Vickerman , Trevor Gleeson, Lindsey Gaze, Ken Cole , Will Weaver, Bruce Palmer NBA Stars Past & Present: Andrew Bogut , Matthew Dellavedova , Stephen Jackson , Jack McVeigh , Randy Livingston, Torrey Craig , Jack White , Acie Earl , Josh Childress , Reggie Smith , Todd Lichti , Ryan Broekhoff , Doug Overton The NBL's Greatest Imports: Leroy Loggins , Darryl McDonald , Ricky Grace , Cal Bruton , Derek Rucker , Leon Trimmingham , Scott Fisher , Lanard Copeland , Dwayne McClain , Darnell Mee , Shawn Redhage , Al Green , Steve Woodberry , Doug Overton , Kevin Lisch The Men In Control: Larry Kestelman, Mal Speed, Paul Maley , Vince Crivelli, Jeremy Loeliger, Chris Pongrass, Jeff Van Groningen, Bob Turner , Danny Mills Follow @AussieHoopla on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or email us at info@aussiehoopla.com

Andrew Svaldenis joins the podcast to reflect on a 13-year NBL career that took him from Bankstown to Sydney, Hobart, Adelaide, and Geelong—appearing in 299 games and carving out a legacy as one of the league's most consistent frontcourt battlers across the '80s and '90s. Svaldenis opens up about debuting as a teenager under Robbie Cadee, his breakout years in Hobart under Cal Bruton, and what it was like to be part of the original Sydney Kings merger. We also dig into some of his biggest games, toughest matchups, and the evolution of the NBL through the lens of a blue-collar big man who saw it all. Topics include: 🏀 Breaking into the NBL at 18 and learning from legends like Cadee and Claus (2:00) 🏀 Surviving the chaos of Bankstown's final seasons and what came next (7:00) 🏀 The Supersonics to Kings transition—and the arrival of Ken Cole (13:00) 🏀 Guarding imports, backing up Ridlen and Polk, and his best Supersonics games (20:00) 🏀 Becoming a starter in Hobart and hitting career-best numbers in '92 and '93 (27:00) 🏀 Life under Cal Bruton and later with a young Devils squad led by Whiteside and Stewart (32:00) 🏀 The 1994 Grand Final run with Adelaide—and what made Mike Dunlap so different (38:00) 🏀 Closing out his career with Geelong (44:00) 🏀 How he reflects on his career, biggest lessons, and what he's up to now (51:00) Visit dunk.com.au for your next set of basketball uniforms. Head to Aussie Hoopla to check out previous podcasts featuring: Australian Basketball Legends: Luc Longley , Andrew Gaze , Shane Heal , Mark Bradtke , David Andersen , Andrew Vlahov , Phil Smyth , CJ Bruton , Chris Anstey , Brett Maher , Sam MacKinnon , John Rillie , Tony Ronaldson , Damian Martin , Brad Newley Current NBL Stars: Bryce Cotton , Chris Goulding , Xavier Cooks , Tyler Harvey , Dejan Vasiljevic , Jordan Hunter , Flynn Cameron , Keli Leaupepe , Jason Cadee , Mitch McCarron , Anthony Drmic , Luke Travers , Sam Froling , Jesse Wagstaff Our Finest Coaching Minds: Brian Goorjian , Barry Barnes, Joey Wright , Adrian Hurley, Adam Forde, Aaron Fearne , Rob Beveridge, Ian Stacker , Shawn Dennis , Dean Vickerman , Trevor Gleeson, Lindsey Gaze, Ken Cole , Will Weaver, Bruce Palmer NBA Stars Past & Present: Andrew Bogut , Matthew Dellavedova , Stephen Jackson , Jack McVeigh , Randy Livingston, Torrey Craig , Jack White , Acie Earl , Josh Childress , Reggie Smith , Todd Lichti , Ryan Broekhoff , Doug Overton The NBL's Greatest Imports: Leroy Loggins , Darryl McDonald , Ricky Grace , Cal Bruton , Derek Rucker , Leon Trimmingham , Scott Fisher , Lanard Copeland , Dwayne McClain , Darnell Mee , Shawn Redhage , Al Green , Steve Woodberry , Doug Overton , Kevin Lisch The Men In Control: Larry Kestelman, Mal Speed, Paul Maley , Vince Crivelli, Jeremy Loeliger, Chris Pongrass, Jeff Van Groningen, Bob Turner , Danny Mills Follow @AussieHoopla on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or email us at info@aussiehoopla.com