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Australian NBL

The History of the Australian NBL

Dive deep into the history of the NBA, exploring how the league began and evolved over time, from its early days to its current status as a global phenomenon.

Founded on June 6, 1946, as the Basketball Association of America (BAA), the NBA emerged from a merger with the National Basketball League (NBL) in 1949. The league quickly gained popularity through the 1950s and 1960s, featuring legends like Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain.

The NBA continued to rise in prominence during the 1970s and 1980s, driven by the rivalry between Larry Bird's Celtics and Magic Johnson's Lakers. The 1990s saw a global expansion, largely fueled by Michael Jordan’s dominance and the impact of international stars like Hakeem Olajuwon and Dirk Nowitzki.

Today, the NBA is a global powerhouse, showcasing top talent and influencing basketball worldwide. Its history is rich with legendary players, memorable moments, and an ongoing commitment to advancing the sport.

Basketball History

2024 Champion

The race to the NBL championship is complete, with the Tasmania JackJumpers claiming their maiden title.

Their opponents Melbourne United had been the league's high-water mark for the entire season, finishing in top spot with 20 wins and not losing two games in a row the entire season.

While the JackJumpers started the season on shaky footing, they came home strong in a massive way, knocking out second-ranked team Perth and MVP Bryce Cotton en route to the finals.

Only three years after joining the NBL, the Tasmania JackJumpers have claimed their first championship trophy.

Basketball History

NBL Teams

Discover the elite teams competing in the NBL, showcasing the best of Australian basketball.