1982 NBL Champions: Auckland

1982 was the inaugural season of the NBL, known then as the ‘Countrywide League’. Auckland would go on to win the the competitions first title, defeating Waitemata in the decider.

Teams:

8 teams contested the 1982 season (final standings): Auckland, Waitemata, Canterbury Rams, Centrals, Nelson Giants, Porirua, Hamilton and Palmerston North Jets.

Grand Final:

Auckland defeated Waitemata (Referees: John Burton & Keith Milligan)

Season Award Winners:

Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy): Brent Wright (Nelson Giants)

Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup): Stan Hill (Auckland)

Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy): Stan Hill (Auckland)

Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy): James Lofton (Porirua)

Best Team Free Throws (Nial Forsyth Trophy): Palmerston North Jets

All-Star Five:

B. Brumit (Waitemata)

Stan Hill (Auckland)

James Lofton (Porirua)

Jack Maere (Auckland)

Brent Wright (Nelson Giants)