NBL1 South 2023 Awards Night Recap

The NBL1 South 2023 Awards Night was a dazzling celebration of talent, dedication, and sportsmanship, held at the State Basketball Centre on the eve of the Grand Finals. The event saw representatives from every club, including players, coaches, administrators, league officials, and Basketball Victoria staff, coming together to honour the outstanding achievements of the season.

In a remarkable show of skill and determination, the following individuals and teams were recognized for their remarkable contributions to the NBL1 South season:

NBL1 South – Men's Awards:

The coveted title of Joint League MVP was awarded to both Daniel Trist of the Frankston Blues and Jack Purchase from the Melbourne Tigers, acknowledging their exceptional performance and impact on the court. Joining them in the All-Star 5 lineup were Daniel Trist, Jack Purchase, Tyler Rudolph of the Ballarat Miners, Gabe Hadley representing Geelong United, and Sandringham Sabres' Ben Ayre. The Youth Player of the Year award was presented to Luke Rosendale from the Bendigo Braves, while the Defensive Player of the Year title went to Sam McDaniel of the Hobart Chargers. Matt Nunn of the Knox Raiders was named Coach of the Year for the Men's Conference, rounding out the outstanding list of men's award winners.

NBL1 South – Women's Awards:

The Bendigo Braves' Megan McKay stood out as the League MVP, showcasing her exceptional skills and leadership on the court. Joining her in the All-Star 5 were Megan McKay, Kelly Wilson from the Bendigo Braves, Miela Goodchild representing the Mt Gambier Pioneers, Marena Whittle of the Ringwood Hawks, and Chloe Bibby from the Frankston Blues. The Youth Player of the Year award was claimed by Nyadiew Puoch of the Dandenong Rangers, while the Defensive Player of the Year title was well-deservedly awarded to Isabella Brancatisano of the Mt Gambier Pioneers. Mark Alabakov from the Bendigo Braves was recognized as the Coach of the Year in the Women's Conference.

Statistical Awards:

The statistical awards highlighted exceptional performances in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking. In the Men's Conference Tyler Rudolph of the Ballarat Miners earned the title of Leading Scorer for the Men's caonference, while Dane Pineau of the Sandringham Sabres claimed the Leading Rebounder honor. In the Golden Hands category, Lucas Barker of the Frankston Blues showcased his incredible playmaking skills.

For the Women's Conference, Megan McKay of the Bendigo Braves once again took the spotlight as the Leading Scorer, while Louise Brown of the Frankston Blues was recognized as the Leading Rebounder. Kelly Wilson from the Bendigo Braves showcased her remarkable playmaking skills by earning the Kelly Wilson Golden Hands title.

Referee Awards:

The referee awards celebrated the important role of officials in the game. Brad Henshaw was named the Men's Conference Referee of the Year, while Andrew Johnson received the Women's Conference Referee of the Year award. The Neil Bradbury Referee Coach of the Year title was bestowed upon Sarah Bradbury, highlighting her exceptional contributions. The prestigious Golden Whistle award was presented to Kahli Trist for her exemplary dedication to officiating.

Club Awards:

Acknowledging the pivotal roles played off the court, the Frankston Blues' Wayne Holdsworth was recognized as the Club Executive of the Year. The top honor of Club of the Year went to the Mt Gambier Pioneers, celebrating their outstanding efforts and accomplishments throughout the season.

The NBL1 South 2023 Awards Night served as a testament to the remarkable talent and commitment displayed by players, coaches, referees, and administrators. As the Grand Final loomed on the horizon, the night was a celebration of the basketball community's unity and shared love for the game.