tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88274143855870892632011-09-23T02:30:21.732+10:00Townsville Crocodiles and NBL player John Rillie writes on the latest happenings of the NBL and basketball world.John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.comBlogger8061100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-24461851576751564722010-04-07T01:00:00.002+10:002010-04-07T01:08:52.316+10:00

It has been a while since I have updated but I've been a little busy coaching at the Queensland u/16 State Titles over the Easter break.Congrats to the Townsville teams that put in a great performance at the Classic.Currently I'm in Adelaide competing in the High Stakes Hoops tournament. Yes, our performance was below par, but hopefully tomorrow will bring a better performance.One of the first

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-27332043206933816392010-03-26T11:58:00.000+10:002010-03-26T11:58:00.276+10:00

The St Mary's Gaels are about to take on Baylor in the Sweet 16. Man of the moment Omar Samhan has his own blog happening but he has caught up with two of the Gaels Aussies.Checkout below interviews with Jorden Page and Ben Allen as the talk about the NCAA Tournament.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-70252858800287953022010-03-25T23:33:00.004+10:002010-03-25T23:54:48.500+10:00

Sorry, I have not been able to update the blog recently but I've get been helping get a few things kick started around here.I have been keeping a close eye on all things basketball, especially the NCAA Tournament.If you happened to have watched the first weekend of action you would have noticed the Aussie heavy St Mary's Gaels have a "man" in the middle that is fast becoming America's

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-16082519544184971592010-03-17T15:19:00.001+10:002010-03-17T15:21:11.211+10:00

Captain of the Townsville Crocodiles Russell Hinder has been the first player to re-sign with the club for the upcoming 2010/11 NBL season.Here is footage from the press conference which was held this morning.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-44109806886576915022010-03-15T22:09:00.003+10:002010-03-15T22:42:21.958+10:00

Today the field of 65 teams was announced as the NCAA Selection Committee have made their decision final.No UNC, UCLA, UConn and no Arizona for the first time in 25 years.Instead we will have a bunch of mid majors competing amongst themselves to make it through to the Sweet Sixteen in the second week.Click here to see a full bracket, but let's take a look at the Aussies involved in this great

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-7848243754241502682010-03-13T00:06:00.001+10:002010-03-15T21:57:48.022+10:00

Just in case you have not seen the best dunk this side of the NBA All-Star Dunk Contest (insert joke please), check out this amazing dunk by Denver Nugget JR Smith.#1 in Plays of the Day!

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-86533379148450801442010-03-11T23:53:00.004+10:002010-03-12T13:01:50.713+10:00

"Bevo" will be all smiles with this line up at his disposal! With less than 24 hours until the deciding game of the 2009/10 NBL Championship season tips off, I'm hearing rumours that Perth Wildcats Coach Rob Beveridge has asked for a last minute roster change.The league head office is considering the bizarre request as Beveridge has asked if he can exchange/trade his current players (besides one

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-44413002949617061322010-03-08T09:51:00.004+10:002010-03-08T10:24:43.452+10:00

Eric Devendorf showed that offense is his best defense for the Waikato Pistons. This week saw another NCAA team rise to #1 in the rankings, only to be knocked off the perch in the same week.The Syracuse Orangemen (#1) traveled to Louisville to take on the Cardinals in what was to become an historic game at Freedom Hall.Where am I going with this story you may ask? Stick with it.The Orangemen who

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-56460755734332677152010-03-07T01:16:00.002+10:002010-03-07T01:23:21.472+10:00

Sorry I've been a little slack of late, but I've been parked on the coach watching all the hoops on television. Whether is has been college, NBA and European, I have not been able to drag myself away from the tube.It is getting to the best time of the year as March Madness is just around the corner, the NBA is getting serious as they head towards the playoffs and the European mid week

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-33625986786239442632010-03-03T23:51:00.003+10:002010-03-04T00:34:05.655+10:00

Best photo I could find at time of publication, but I think this lovely female "digs" Kirk Penney. With only two more sleeps before the Wollongong Hawks and the Perth Wildcats begin to battle for the tittle of 2009/10 NBL champ, lets see what is making news in the region.- Hawks starting point guard Rhys Martin has dual Olympian CJ Bruton to thank for his move to the beachside town in New South

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-83671873081698879092010-03-02T09:17:00.002+10:002010-03-02T09:33:11.777+10:00

Wollongong Hawk benchman Dave Gruber came out in Game 3 and provided the Hawks with the "X" factor that teams need at this time of the year.The former Northern Iowa University product has had this type of impact on a game throughout the season. I remember him coming of the bench against my New Zealand Breakers and scorching us for 17 in an efficient manner. He was the difference maker.Can "

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-5170867387215100192010-02-25T23:34:00.002+10:002010-02-26T01:04:42.988+10:00

I'm not going to confuse you so I will just give the time that Game 3 between the Wollongong Hawks and the Townsville Crocodiles is at now.The series deciding game can now be seen live on Fox Sports 1 from 6.30pm (NSW time) which is a considerable upgrade from when we would have been watching it beforehand. (Thank you Fox Sports)Now for the people of Wollongong who are going to the game. Do not

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-41351287186212427372010-02-24T23:52:00.003+10:002010-02-25T00:59:24.970+10:00

Julian Khazzouh gave Adam Ballinger a little something in Sydney, read below to find out where in the world these two guys ran into each other.Wow is all I can say to the Wollongong Hawks/Townsville Crocodiles series to date. The games have been so bad I do not wish to relive them or nor should you.I will say one thing on the back of a lot of Crocs fans asking me as I left, "Who will win Game 3?

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-13558862424940024352010-02-22T23:41:00.002+10:002010-02-23T00:13:03.279+10:00

Tonight on the local news up here in Townsville, Crocs Head Coach Trevor Gleeson has hinted at the idea that the Crocs will make changes to the starting line up after their lack luster performance against the Wollongong Hawks in Game 1 of their Semi Final series.The Crocs managed just one assist in the first half of last week's contest. Anyone that knows hoops knows that this stat indicates that

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-52530427532941091762010-02-21T23:20:00.005+10:002010-02-22T00:25:47.924+10:00

Andrew Gaze does not know his footwear like Imelda Marcos.It may seem I have been in the wilderness (I was in Cairns) for the past 48 hours but I have actually been away starting to build my coaching resume.I was away with a couple Townsville U/16 boys teams preparing for the State Championship in April. (Just in case you were wondering, I was an impressive 4-1.)I have just finished watching

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-75201315076488854682010-02-19T12:20:00.002+10:002010-02-19T12:41:36.967+10:00

I have been scavenging through You Tube today to see what I could dig up that I'm hoping not many have seen previously.I have come across this Washington State Dunk Contest that was held during Midnight Madness. Yes, that was a while ago but I'm sure you will be happy to take some time out of your Friday afternoon schedule to check it out.Aussie Brock Motum (6'9 leftie, wearing white #12) is one

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-55016547152198026922010-02-17T23:00:00.005+10:002010-02-18T00:33:57.859+10:00

Townsville Crocs fans, remember this guy? Read below to find out where DuJuan Wiley is now playing. I know that the NBL playoffs kick start tomorrow but there are plenty of people making comment about the two series that get underway so let me focus on bringing you up to speed on Aussies abroad.- A player I have never dedicated ink to is Trian Iliadis of Old Dominion. The Perth local is in his

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-60977674700095060892010-02-16T22:37:00.006+10:002010-02-16T23:30:59.711+10:00

Has Tom Abercrombie become the forgotten one? It's getting to that time of the season where media and fans start discussing yearly award winners.One award that seems to be heating up a little is the Rookie of the Year award. There seems to be only two names on every one lips, but is there a dark horse people have forgotten.Perth Wildcat Jesse Wagstaff is the favourite. Wagstaff plays for the

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-73398335515731538712010-02-15T22:12:00.003+10:002010-02-15T23:26:15.465+10:00

That is not hugging it out people. The Gold Coast Blaze and Perth Wildcats playoff series will be heated, just like the regular season clashes. Before reading this edition, please go and get your diary so you can make a note of the dates of the NBL semi final series.The Perth Wildcats/Gold Coast Blaze series kicks off proceedings on Thursday (18th) night in Perth. Game 2 will be the played on

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-2616728780712893942010-02-14T21:57:00.003+10:002010-02-14T22:16:29.632+10:00

Like many of you I sat through the 2010 NBA Dunk Contest in hope that eventually some energy would creep into the contest. I did not scoot to the edge of my couch one time in anticipation that something exciting would happen.No doubt New York Knick Nate Robinson was the best dunker today, but there are only so many times I can see the little man from Seattle lob the ball and dunk it.By the end of

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-88382865988089902592010-02-13T11:43:00.004+10:002010-02-13T12:23:44.711+10:00

Andrew Bogut is currently enjoying what Vegas has to offer while most of the NBA fraternity is in Dallas for All-Star weekend. (Sorry Andrew I went to as many Internet cafes as possible to vote for you.)Bogut's Milwaukee Bucks teammate Brandon Jennings is there for the Rookie/Sophomore game but he also feels the Aussie centre should be representing the Bucks in the main game.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-33986534417287849672010-02-12T20:29:00.004+10:002010-02-12T21:29:17.653+10:00

Two former teammates have been using the media to try and gain the upper hand as both their teams try end the season as minor premiers.Corey "Homicide" Williams kick started the "trash talk" after Wednesday night's televised game against the Adelaide 36ers calling out Perth Wildcat Galen Young and his bullying tactics.Young responded today by calling Williams a "misdemeanour" more than a "

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-90759157525425213722010-02-10T22:48:00.002+10:002010-02-10T22:56:32.812+10:00

I have just returned from tonight's Townsville Crocodiles and Adelaide 36ers clash.With prime time seats on offer I was rather pumped to check out some NBL action from such a vantage point. Well, what a poor game this was from a spectators point of view. The Crocs were easy winners 102-87.Instead of dwelling on it too much I have found something that completely trumps this game's look.Former

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-72540517902031637382010-02-09T23:12:00.004+10:002010-02-10T22:47:45.920+10:00

The secret to this blog's success, International Roast!I have Googled and looked high and low for all things basketball in the Oceania area or involving an Aussie hooper. Here is what I come up with and I was only aided by a few cups of the good stuff, International Roast.- New Zealand Breaker Kirk Penney has picked up his second NBL Player of the Week award for season 2009/10.- Defending NZNBL

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-9672509707090613842010-02-08T22:01:00.004+10:002010-02-09T22:17:42.607+10:00

Years ago it was Larry Bird and Michael Jordan playing H-O-R-S-E for a Big Mac and fries for lunch.Now Gen Y has their go at re-creating the classic commercial. Take a look at the new Lebron James and Dwight Howard version of the McDonald's ad made legendary by the Hall of Famers.As usual, Larry Legend leaves the winner.THE OLDTHE NEW

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-12160143883996289502010-02-08T08:29:00.003+10:002010-02-08T08:39:34.389+10:00

There is mounting speculation that two of Australia's greatest basketball products will announce their retirement from NBL basketball today.Melbourne Tigers pair of Sam MacKinnon and Chris Anstey will announce they are done with their professional basketballing careers sometime today.MacKinnon has been named MVP and won several NBL Championships while flirting with Europe and the NBA throughout

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-81875495322383219922010-02-07T21:53:00.004+10:002010-02-07T22:24:45.118+10:00

On Friday the Townsville Crocodiles held a luncheon with former Test Cricketer Wayne Phillips as the MC and Greg Ritchie as the guest speaker.Phillips has MCed a few functions for the Crocs and he is quite the entertainer (this can be seen below in the video footage as he never lets the truth get in the road of a good story).But once I saw Ritchie's Andrew Vlahovesque frame mount the stage it

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-82793660226221980332010-02-05T06:49:00.004+10:002010-02-05T07:02:26.123+10:00

Now former NBA and Serbian center Vlade Divac and I have never seen eye to eye but you always have to respect a guy for his individual skills.Divac was considered one of the best passing big men in the league during his time in the United States. I will not argue that point and I will not argue the point below in the video footage that was kindly brought to my attention by my Serbian friend.Divac

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-17219952996264390472010-02-04T15:26:00.003+10:002010-02-04T15:34:49.103+10:00

Tony Ronaldson become the most capped NBL player in history by surpassing the great Andrew Gaze last season, but earlier this week he decided the 2009/10 season will be his last.Throughout his 20 professional seasons Ronaldson has many accolades to his name including NBL Championships, 2 Olympic Games and a Commonwealth Games Gold Medal to his name.The "Bear" held a press conference on Tuesday in

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-29578921457035916072010-02-01T15:30:00.002+10:002010-02-01T16:07:30.120+10:00

Before I pack my bags in preparation in leaving the States to head home and finally start to see my family on a regular basis, I put together this links package so you can read the latest in NBL news.- Minnesota Timberwolf Nathan Jawai talks about the differences of playing in the NBL versus the NBA.In paraphrasing Jawai he talks about how he could just "beast" his way to the hoop here (NBL)while

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-75821453170449987442010-01-31T04:52:00.003+10:002010-01-31T05:09:01.973+10:00

As my quick trip to the USA is nearing an end, the hits just keep on coming.This morning I meander down to breakfast rather late, as I watched both NBL games via the "live" updates to the wee hours of this morning, only to have the pleasure to meet Craig Ehlo.The first thing to spring to mind was the "shot" but I could not muster up the testosterone to ask him about one of the most recognisable

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-75008816123499715352010-01-29T05:28:00.003+10:002010-01-29T05:35:17.723+10:00

Sorry I have been a little slack on the blog the last few days but I make a quick trip to the USA to attend the funeral of my college coach Dan Fitzgerald. What a great service and the speakers were fantastic to boot. It was great to see a number of former teammates and catch up and relive the "good ole times".Since arriving over here I have been asked to do the colour commentating for the

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-88695586775962883392010-01-26T02:37:00.002+10:002010-01-26T02:46:00.636+10:00

Not to often does former NBL MVP Rob Rose speak about the state of the game.In yesterday's Townsville Bulletin, the former Crocodiles captain talked about a few of the alterations that have been made to the NBL rules this season.He feels the game has become "boring" at stages and the need to go back to 48 minutes would be his ideal. Hopefully it would help with the low scoring games he has seen

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-85770615841226530012010-01-24T22:00:00.005+10:002010-01-24T23:25:53.001+10:00

Remember this name - Anatoly Bose (and I love the jersey number!) In this edition of news I'm going to have to go against my usual grain and give top billing to a guy that performed unbelievably well although his team lost with a second to go.Sydneysider Anatoly Bose (a name you may not of heard of but you will) of Nicholls St dropped a career high 46 points and collected 14 rebounds in a double

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-63506510701390972052010-01-24T20:38:00.002+10:002010-01-24T20:44:49.063+10:00

Wollongong Hawks have been doing a lot of things right on and off the court this year. Without doubt they are leading the NBL in cyber appearances.Here is their latest edition as this very happy fan has walked away with a year's worth of Slurpees, all thanks to 7-Eleven. All he did was drop a halfcourter.Check the footage below to see how the punter won. Oh, his son looks pretty happy too!

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-42169281196813248492010-01-22T22:30:00.002+10:002010-01-22T22:35:59.884+10:00

I have just returned home for one of the ugliest contests of the year, Townsville Crocodiles over the Wollongong Hawks.Instead of telling you about that eye sore, check out the latest edition from the Wildcat boys. Potential Rookie of the Year Jesse Wagstaff tells us a little about himself. A self confessed "nerd" who would otherwise be an engineer in Canberra if it was not for hoops.Worth a

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-59760215032392524802010-01-21T23:37:00.004+10:002010-01-22T00:45:48.476+10:00

Marc Armstead and Marty Wall (both capped spectators) thinking how that used to be them "Fitz" was staring daggers at. While Australian basketball is today deciding whether this new "High Stakes Hoops" will help or hinder the progress of the sport in the country, I cannot keep my mind off the fact that one of the most colourful human beings I have ever come across has passed away.Former Gonzaga

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-65166435026945116382010-01-21T11:37:00.003+10:002010-01-21T11:42:34.946+10:00

Thanks to The Basketball Professor here is what is coming in the world of Aussie hoops in April.I will blog about this at a later date, but this story has just broken today.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-19025276599947198712010-01-19T22:02:00.006+10:002010-01-19T23:03:50.572+10:00

I'm watching Fox Sports tomorrow night to see if Perth enforcer Galen Young (left) and Tigers Sam MacKinnon lock horns and flex. By the end of this round (17) we may have a clearer picture of who the Top 4 are or it could once again become tighter than the Gold Coast rims.Wednesday night really sets the mood for the week's games. First we have the resurging Melbourne Tigers taking on the top of

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-13514729428635587302010-01-18T19:17:00.003+10:002010-01-18T20:26:22.088+10:00

As my wife prepares a little dinner (nuggets and salad) for the household I thought I would use my time wisely and update you with the latest news.Hold on, was that a Wollongong Hawks jersey on Neighbours? First Zac Delaney gets his first NBL point, now he is on the Kylie Minogue-less TV show?Well done Hawks, I'm impressed.- Adelaide 36ers will travel to take on the New Zealand Breakers this

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-83688537355120533692010-01-18T10:06:00.000+10:002010-01-18T10:06:00.392+10:00

Wollongong Hawk little big man Zac Delaney scores his first NBL point over the weekend against the Gold Coast Blaze.Teammate Daniel Jackson catches up with the local legend to see what he has to say about a life long goal, scoring big.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-59442168321756653582010-01-17T21:15:00.004+10:002010-01-17T23:30:51.386+10:00

It seems to me that many teams involved at the second tier basketball level in this country are trying to step up their games and the Kalamunda Eastern Suns in Western Australia may just be leading the way.Tomorrow, they will be holding a press conference at 11am (Sandgroper time) at the Ray Owen Sports Centre. The club is holding the media event to announce "a major partnership with an

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-74947283483969056702010-01-15T09:31:00.003+10:002010-01-15T09:42:31.415+10:00

This should be you this afternoon! If you're an avid hoops fan and you are stuck in the office, you need to fake a sickie right now.Today on ESPN there is a plethora of college hoops and for me it is the 3pm game that holds the most interest.It is the clash between the nationally ranked Gonzaga Bulldogs and the Aussie laden St Mary's Gaels. My take on the game is the Zags will win but the 5

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-52579802192948878092010-01-14T12:44:00.002+10:002010-01-14T13:07:04.645+10:00

It seems in the recent Townsville Crocodiles and Gold Coast Blaze game, all the action was not reserved for the court.You have to wait till the last segment of this news piece to see what actions led to a Blaze fan being ejected from the "Swamp" in Townsville.I will make comment on the "other "matter in the near future.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-55747039613611061252010-01-13T16:42:00.004+10:002010-01-13T16:55:41.990+10:00

The littlest man in NBL history (Zac Delaney) proves that size doesn't matter. He is yet to become a household name in basketball circles, but little Zac Delaney is showing kids in the Illawarra community, size does not always matter.The 169cm (and very generous at that) local product of Wollongong basketball is currently a development player with the community based franchise but he's hit the

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-83888857063209594532010-01-12T15:01:00.002+10:002010-01-12T15:08:31.223+10:00

Sometimes in the sport of basketball things happen that make you say What The?Just a few days ago, Denver Nugget guard JR Smith thought that Sacramento King rookie Tyreke Evans made a shot. Total misread on Smith's behalf as he inbounded the ball only to be whistled for out of bounds. The disbelief on Smith's face is priceless when he is told the shot was an "air ball".

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-41441643198748681262010-01-10T20:30:00.002+10:002010-01-10T20:52:26.184+10:00

It's that time of the week again when we take a trip down memory lane.In previous weeks I have focused on the NBA. Well, the week is all about NCAA basketball and first up is a look back at Patrick Ewing at Georgetown vs Hakeem Olajuwon at Houston. One of the great individual battles in college basketball history.One of the biggest in state rivalries is between Kentucky and Louisville. It will

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-41213861483018280412010-01-09T20:17:00.004+10:002010-01-09T20:28:15.916+10:00

If you missed Fox Sports coverage of the Wollongong Hawks and New Zealand Breakers NBL game on Wednesday night, you missed a candidate for Dunk of the Year.But thanks to Sydney photographer Catherine Cranston, Tom Abercrombie's alley-oop dunk has been captured on film (or pixels).To give a quick recap, Abercrombie went back door and Hoovered (vacuumed) in a pass that looked like it would

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-45594489842477949212010-01-07T09:15:00.005+10:002010-01-07T09:31:55.485+10:00

Former Coppin State star Tywain McKee is out for the season with a dodgy back. Wollongong Hawks import Ty McKee is done for the season. The favourite to take out this year's NBL MVP award has been struck down by a back injury he sustained in a game against the Cairns Taipans weeks ago.Here is the Hawks media release. In Spain former Sydney King and Melbourne Tiger David Barlow continues

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-73781557264525198182010-01-05T08:36:00.004+10:002010-01-05T08:48:59.387+10:00

Pat Mills will join the Portland Trailblazers this week. In case you have not heard, Pat Mills has been called up to the Portland Trailblazers. After dropping 38 last week for the D-League's Idaho Stampede and injury worries to the Trailblazers, Mills will find himself seeing some playing time sometime this week.To get all the news on Mills, check out these fellow Aussie bloggers.A Stern Warning

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-88857049333972955582010-01-04T18:40:00.006+10:002010-01-04T19:01:51.436+10:00

Nice flat top Scott Ninnis.Yes John Gilchrist, that is your coach throwing it down. Scott Ninnis was a mosquito when he played. Coach Don Monson even drew up alley-oop plays for him, but he had to be running from the left side.Dribbling was not his forte unless it was in his right hand, but Ninnis could sniff out a bucket in the open court.Thanks to Newcastle's "Duggo", I while feature some of

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-77537313465117679062010-01-03T15:41:00.003+10:002010-01-03T16:17:57.781+10:00

It's that time of the week again. "Old School Sunday" thanks to You Tube is here again.This weekly segment is gaining some momentum and requests have been flooding in.I know this first request may seem a little set up, but teammate Tom Abercrombie asked for a little Reggie Miller package. At first I thought he was joking (Reggie is one of my all time favs) but the young fella was dead serious.Tom

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-47792430907553521252010-01-02T12:03:00.003+10:002010-01-02T12:33:35.906+10:00

2009 is in the rear view mirror. It is full steam ahead and make the most of 2010 for the Breakers. The New Zealand Breakers have a high expectation amongst the team, and rightly so, but I have to say that 2009 did not live up to the club's expectation.Riding high on life during the start of the 2008/09 season, most critics were salivating over a Breakers, Melbourne Tigers Grand final series.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-1905214315347151002009-12-31T00:01:00.000+10:002009-12-31T00:01:00.494+10:00

Ron Artest's drink of choice when it comes to rehydrating at halftime...Hennessy. Love him or hate him, Los Angles Laker Ron Artest knows how to keep himself in the eye of the media. Weeks after "Ron Ron" admitted to taking a sip or two of alcohol during halftime when he wore a Chicago Bulls jersey, Artest has released a song "Henny at Halftime" with Reks.I wonder how NBA Commissioner David

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-29989568551289838132009-12-30T18:18:00.000+10:002009-12-30T18:18:00.232+10:00

Ever wondered what happened to the lethal three point shooter named Dennis Scott. Here he is interviewing former teammate Shaquille O'Neal.Enjoy, I did.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-50354869464565063652009-12-30T11:24:00.003+10:002009-12-30T11:40:43.687+10:00

I love dropping by The Bball Scoop blog to see what colourful topic they have come up with.The latest article talks about some "home cooking" in the recent Melbourne/Wollongong played on Boxing Day and how the reality TV program "MasterChef" has taken an interest in the country's premier basketball competition. As I was in transit back to New Zealand, I have not seen the game so I cannot comment

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-91429521835296857272009-12-28T19:11:00.002+10:002009-12-28T19:21:13.598+10:00

Click here to see why this equation makes sense to Cairns Taipan Dusty Rychart.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-89838339352971083032009-12-28T16:10:00.003+10:002009-12-28T18:35:44.357+10:00

Joe Ingles had a Spanish Christmas to remember. Read below how.Although many of us enjoyed a Christmas break, there were some Aussie hoopers that had no such luck.Here is some information on how some of the Aussies are traveling abroad.- Joe Ingles has had his Christmas wishes answered as he played big today. Ingles played all 40 minutes for his Spanish team Granada and rewarded his coach with

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-86197014702518889922009-12-27T16:36:00.002+10:002009-12-27T17:26:54.297+10:00

I'm a little under the weather with my nose dripping like a leaky tap, but here is this week's Old School Sunday edition of You Tube highlights from the past. (Hope you like them Tom Abercrombie!)Larry Johnson of the Grandma Ma fame gets top billing today. A little highlights package from his athletic Charlotte Hornets (remember them?) days.Shawn Kemp was another high flying power forward. Him

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-15728101026483610922009-12-26T15:37:00.003+10:002009-12-26T15:50:46.350+10:00

Two years ago Isiah Thomas and the New York Knicks went into a tail spin, due to various reasons. And to this day the legendary basketball franchise is still trying to recover from those bleak Knick days. Most of the staff involved in this dark period have recovered and moved on with life, but for Jeff Nix who was a long time scout for the Knicks is still paying the price. I found this article

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-88238220270732246672009-12-25T10:20:00.005+10:002009-12-25T10:30:20.767+10:00

What did you get for Xmas? Just wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.I'm just spending some quality time with the family while I can so the blogging will be back in action tomorrow, plus I'm figuring out how to use the iPod touch.All the best for the holiday season but don't forget there is NBL action on Boxing Day as the Melbourne Tigers take on the Wollongong Hawks at the

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-47493862456998081262009-12-21T18:01:00.003+10:002009-12-21T19:41:30.910+10:00

Adam Ballinger at the peak. He was awarded this month's NBL POM award. Before I start to pack my bag and head for home (Townsville) to see me family over the Christmas break, I will get you up to speed as to what is happening around the media traps.Yes, I know it is a lazy way of blogging but my day has been a tough one. After a team practice session this morning it has all been down hill since

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-30327134473110188722009-12-20T20:57:00.003+10:002009-12-20T21:48:00.915+10:00

Once again Sunday has been a long travel days for the New Zealand Breakers. After touching down in Auckland and restocking the fridge I'm a little shagged and in need of beauty sleep.Last week was the same scenario and I posted a few You Tube highlights from NBA players in the 80's.Breakers young gun Tom Abercrombie loved it, so I've dug up a few more for Tom and everyone else to enjoy.For mind

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-42729021055913976622009-12-18T09:24:00.002+10:002009-12-18T09:31:53.015+10:00

If you're a Dwyane Wade fan this is for you. Wade will be live streaming via Ustream starting on December 19th (USA time) at 12 pm.He is giving everyone an all access pass into his life off the court.I'm guessing this will go a little better than Stephon Marbury's off season experiment.I'm tuning in, are you?

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-4253718840585595332009-12-17T19:26:00.002+10:002009-12-17T19:33:17.164+10:00

A little You Tube footage of Ty McKee being interviewed about his first Player of the Week award.Besides the award, McKee talks about the return of Allen Iverson to Philadelphia and has he (McKee) been stealing soft drinks from a local burger joint? It's good to see the rookie import is still learning the ropes of being a pro as his teammates keep him on his toes.McKee also took out this week's

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-52961771647012084752009-12-16T17:21:00.005+10:002009-12-16T17:48:08.350+10:00

Australia or Serbia! Who you got Aleks Maric?When you talk about the depth of the Australian Boomers frontcourt, names like Bogut, Andersen, Nielsen and Jawai roll off the tongue without a stutter.But there is another Aussie "big" that is making a name for himself in Euroleague and just reminding Boomers Head Coach Brett Brown that all is not set in stone for the 2010 World Championship

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-7201259533138448542009-12-15T13:29:00.004+10:002009-12-15T14:02:02.418+10:00

Mika Vukona (#7) and Pero Cameron (#11) will be joined by fellow Kiwi international Craig Bradshaw (back) on the Gold Coast.- Wollongong Hawks import Tywain McKee has taken out back to back Player of the Week Awards.- New Zealand Breakers veteran Tony Ronaldson is hoping that fans of the Breakers will show up to our game on Thursday night against the fourth placed Townsville Crocodiles.- Brett

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-14985695857537461952009-12-14T12:59:00.007+10:002009-12-14T20:53:37.882+10:00

Julius Hodge would be a great addition to the grape stomping circuit. There's plenty of room for him.I cannot let the Julius Hodge stomp saga die completely without me having a say on the matter.The city of Adelaide was still a buzz a week after Hodge and his teammates left town with the win and a new found dance step dubbed the Mahercarena.In my sixteen years being involved as a player in the

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-56401564283008657692009-12-13T19:38:00.002+10:002009-12-13T19:47:46.933+10:00

Sorry it has been a few days people but there was no WiFi available at our Adelaide hotel.It has been a long day of travel back from the Croweater state so I need a little shut eye before I can come up with something half decent for you guys to read.In the meantime, enjoy a little old school from the NBA.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-38845839096196409342009-12-10T22:06:00.005+10:002009-12-10T22:34:27.463+10:00

Once we drop a few of these (dagger), the Breakers season will be back on track.For the second straight week, we (the New Zealand Breakers) have found a way to cough up great second half lead to be caught with our pants down when the final buzzer sounds.Now, for a team that has found a way to get themselves into these situations there are a couple of ways this can go for a team.Obviously, any

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-59385020669700161152009-12-09T15:25:00.002+10:002009-12-09T15:56:21.265+10:00

He was one of the hardest working players I have ever been associated with and the basketball world has lost a good one. Former Melbourne Tigers and Brisbane Bullets scoring machine Dave Colbert passed away on the 4th of December in a single car accident.Colbert was a high school basketball coach at his Alma Mater, John Marshall High in Cleveland.I used to love watching Colbert and fellow import

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-38863103921623665902009-12-08T13:48:00.002+10:002009-12-08T14:13:32.108+10:00

Wollongong Hawks import Tywain McKee continues to have a huge impact in his rookie NBL season and he has been rewarded with this week's NBL Player of the Week award.This week it was a two horse race between McKee and Perth Wildcat Luke Schenscher.McKee once again took over the fourth quarter of a game as he led his team to a come from behind win of the New Zealand Breakers.While I'm on about

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-9688909848383496312009-12-07T17:58:00.004+10:002009-12-08T13:44:36.200+10:00

- Julius Hodge and his stomping antics (see post below) have him splashed across all media outlets (great for the NBL). I have just linked all things Julius Hodge below.A Stern Warning Kevin Brooks Boti Nagy The Age Fox Sports- Pero Cameron is rumoured to be the player/coach in New Zealand NBL for the Wellington Saints.I come across this article that mentions that Cameron is playing "coy" about

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-59921685237406213042009-12-07T12:51:00.003+10:002009-12-07T13:03:33.326+10:00

Yeah, I did it. What you gonna do about it?Here is the footage of emotional Melbourne Tiger Julius Hodge doing his version of, "if you're happy and you know it stomp your feet". (Usual villain Mark Worthington apologised to the Adelaide community for the behaviour displayed by temmate Hodge.)The only trouble was it was on the signature of club legend Brett Maher.It has been reported that Hodge

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-58065893012722841312009-12-04T18:14:00.003+10:002009-12-04T18:16:43.774+10:00

Allen Iverson has returned to the place where he kicked off his NBA career, Philadelphia.Very emotional about his return to Philly and hoops is a must see.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-41173773510037595402009-12-04T17:28:00.003+10:002009-12-04T17:55:46.243+10:00

Perth Wildcats CEO Nick Marvin is trying to get the Perth crowd in the mood for tomorrow night's game out there in the wild west.This is what he (Marvin) had to say via Twitter moments ago, "Corey (Williams) not sure who would get more heat from the crowd - himself or PC (Peter Crawford) who returns to the Jungle in green for the first time."Their clash against the Townsville Crocodiles is the

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-64744168837557600602009-12-03T22:13:00.003+10:002009-12-03T22:18:19.270+10:00

I'm not sure what the viewer is suppose to get out of this Perth Wildcats video. I have never been the artistic type so I'm looking for help in finding out the angle the Wildcats were chasing.Brad Robbins, Kevin Lisch and Stephen Weigh oiled up does nothing for me.Please help me understand this art by dropping a note (and your explanation)in the comment section.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-37715988983527566162009-12-02T19:50:00.003+10:002009-12-02T20:01:09.735+10:00

Love him or hate him, you have to feel for Luke Kendall who has suffered a season ending injury. This NBL season just seem to go from bad to worse for the Melbourne Tigers.First, former league MVP Chris Anstey will miss a large chunk of the season due to a hip injury, point guard Nathan Crosswell misses a month due to "turf toe" and now starting guard Luke Kendall is done for the year after

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-89258166098889670752009-12-02T17:18:00.003+10:002009-12-02T17:28:19.823+10:00

Chris Bosh of the Toronto Raptors will enter free agency when this current NBA season concludes.Although most of the attention is directed towards LeBron James and his free agency situation, but Bosh will garner his far share of attention when the time comes.Bosh discusses his feelings on the topic, but be careful, he may change his mind soon.My tip is he ends up in Miami.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-4980324329229336672009-12-01T21:42:00.003+10:002009-12-01T22:36:02.712+10:00

I need your help Vodafone. Read below to see why. It's a little late here in Kiwiland so I'm just throwing some random stuff at you tonight.- Aussie AJ Ogilvy has got his junior season off to a slow start as his fast starting (4-1) Vanderbilt look towards their matchup with Missouri. I hope he gets his season back onto a consistent track soon.- The Perth Wildcats and the Gold Coast Blaze are

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-32961513090607303602009-11-29T20:51:00.004+10:002009-11-29T21:05:04.053+10:00

There was a little bit of "handbags at 10 paces" for the boys after the Gold Coast Blaze inflicted the Perth Wildcats with their first home loss of the season.Former Wildcats Chris Goulding and James Harvey "saluted" the Perth faithful, while Wildcat Stephen Weigh (he is on report) took offense to the antics displayed by the Blaze pair.No doubt the question looms, "is this good for the sport?"I

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-41016187756720608232009-11-29T06:54:00.002+10:002009-11-29T06:59:12.946+10:00

Pat Mills was in attendance at a recent NBL game and he lends his time for an interview with the Wollongong Hawks media department.He talks about where he fits in the Portland Trailblazers plans, talks about dunking on Kobe Bryant and Chris Bosh (well maybe) and supporting the NBL.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-17697066468467645392009-11-29T06:11:00.005+10:002009-11-29T06:36:49.401+10:00

Roy Jones Jr may return to Australia to play hoops. Roy Jones Jr is in Australia to fight Danny Green, but the do-everything-athlete has suggested he may come back next year to play some hoops on the Gold Coast.Is this a case of a boxer pumping up his own tyres right before he climbs into the ring for another bout or does this statement carry some validity?Jones Jr has played semi professional

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-63646109924805450192009-11-27T19:33:00.006+10:002009-11-27T20:53:30.331+10:00

Well the Townsville Crocodiles and the Adelaide 36ers have just got underway. The only way for me to keep track of this game is through the live stats on the NBL website. So, to fill in my time in between "live" updates, I will link all articles that I read during this time.- Australian basketball is not the only place finding it hard to get the required dollars necessary to start a new franchise

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-45109665549436953482009-11-26T22:57:00.003+10:002009-11-26T22:59:29.839+10:00

The Wollongong Hawks are trying to get creative in the way they market and make their team available to all media avenues.Here is a look at what can happen during a game at the "Sand Pit".Wollongong Hawks Vs Adelaide 36ers 251109 Canon 7D from Laww Media on Vimeo.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-12370781393277291012009-11-26T10:21:00.003+10:002009-11-26T10:30:27.743+10:00

This just in. The greatest NBA pound for pound player Allen Iverson has retired.In other NBA news, the Portland Trailblazers Pat Mills was a fan at last nights NBL game between the Wollongong Hawks and Adelaide 36ers. Below is a interview that Fox Sports Shane Heal had with Mills at the game.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-5965491024941054552009-11-25T21:12:00.001+10:002009-11-25T21:14:21.538+10:00

It seems someone within the Townsville Crocodiles camp has either walked under a ladder or ran over a black cat.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-71797822736406196662009-11-25T20:57:00.002+10:002009-11-25T21:09:50.477+10:00

Townsville Crocodile Kelvin Robertson suffered a severe season ending knee injury during the 2008/09 season. Robertson worked hard during the offseason so he could be ready ahead off schedule and in time for this season's tip off.Check out the interview. (Beware, there is Kelvin Robertson humour in the video.)

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-70327268071712590612009-11-24T20:24:00.004+10:002009-11-24T20:38:11.811+10:00

Episode 5 of "Pull The Trigger" has arrived. Now being honest, it is not my favourite episode but don't let me be the judge of Cameron Tragardh's line of thought.Check out his poor impersonation of Matt Campbell, while Glen Saville seems to have refereeing as a career path in the near future.The funniest part of PTT for me was (look around the 6-7min mark) when Tragardh's gag got no response from

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-8954471911099222302009-11-23T17:21:00.003+10:002009-11-23T20:20:21.384+10:00

Click on the sweet 'do to the left to see other stylish locks of NBL players created by some artistic guys from the west. By the way boys, the wife loved the Vanilla Ice look.- Yes, he's back. The NBL's MVP will be back on court this week. I can vouch for it as I spent my morning chasing him around at practice. Kirk Penney will be back in uniform when the New Zealand Breakers take on the Cairns

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-50528298568166057662009-11-23T13:17:00.005+10:002009-11-23T13:35:51.463+10:00

Julius Hodge thinks he is the male version of Anna Kournikova. Somehow I cannot see him pulling of a Speedo like this.Melbourne Tiger import Julius Hodge has responded to the recent blog posted by former Adelaide teammate Brad Davidson.Hodge down played the blog entry but responded on Gaze.com.au with a comment regarding Davidson's comparison of Julius with tennis glam girl Anna Kournikova.He is

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-69926537419156996862009-11-22T00:13:00.000+10:002009-11-22T00:13:00.587+10:00

Here is video footage from the Townsville Crocodiles/New Zealand Breakers press conference.Crocs Head Coach Trevor Gleeson talks about early foul to key members of his team.Meanwhile, Breakers coach Andrej Lemanis talks about a team contribution which allowed his Kiwi team to taste success on the road for the first time this year.

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-47063526511711259652009-11-21T13:41:00.005+10:002009-11-21T14:01:33.864+10:00

Julius Hodge should probably be in the gym working on his jump shot instead of the beach if you ask former teamate Brad Davidson.I've been surfing the net this morning just checking out all things basketball and this Brad Davidson blog entry is by far the most interesting read I found.The Commonwealth Games gold medallist talks about his relationship with new Melbourne Tiger Julius Hodge during

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-79069273134356249512009-11-20T07:32:00.002+10:002009-11-20T07:37:09.800+10:00

Courtesy of the Townsville Bulletin, this is what I'm up to today."A FAMILIAR face strode into Townsville airport yesterday in the unfamiliar colours of the New Zealand Breakers. Former Crocs skipper John Rillie, pictured, will take to the court tonight as the enemy in his new role as a bench player for the team from across the ditch.The 38-year-old jokingly said he was expecting a 'standing

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-55470212502899216952009-11-17T11:44:00.004+10:002009-11-17T12:08:22.191+10:00

I caught up with new teammate CJ Bruton before we head out on the road for a pivotal "Sunshine Swing".Bruton talks about his time in Europe, oops, he meant New Zealand and how we are going to do on our trip to sunny North Queensland.CJ also mentions that the weekend consists of both Saturday and Sunday, but he questions whether Head Coach Andrej Lemanis is in tune with his line of thinking.Corey

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-526880209230922732009-11-16T17:53:00.005+10:002009-11-16T21:32:02.023+10:00

Black does give a slimming look, doesn't it?I have yet to really discuss how the opportunity came about for me to join the New Zealand Breakers in the NBL for my 16th season at the professional level.It all happened all so quickly. A phone call from Head Coach Andrej Lemanis, a quick discussion with the wife and next minute I'm on a flight bound for Auckland.After saying yes to the Breakers I had

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-70121847068743412602009-11-16T12:54:00.003+10:002009-11-16T21:33:25.844+10:00

I'm sure you fans the other side of the ditch must have thought I was out shopping for Ugg Boots and the odd warm sheep skin jacket over the weekend, due to my lack of blogging.Not the case. I was out of cyber world action over the weekend, but I'm back baby.I'm not going to lie, I was sitting in my apartment with the heater on trying to guess my password to gain Internet access. The guessing

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-49888870359016988662009-11-13T19:27:00.003+10:002009-11-13T21:52:09.501+10:00

- sportal.com.au - "He's a smart player and a good guy (me), " Andrej Lemanis (New Zealand Head Coach) said. "He's certainly helped already with the chemistry of practice and you can tell there's a fun feeling in the gym when he's in there talking some trash and having a good time."- Check out one of my first interviews here in New Zealand.- Wollongong Hawks pair take out monthly honours. Head

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-62195216663977372132009-11-12T22:18:00.006+10:002009-11-12T23:05:03.590+10:00

Wollongong Hawk import Ty McKee has taken out the NBL Player of the Month Award. Hawks Coach Gordie McLeod was voted Coach of the Month.McKee gets interviewed by Hawk legend Glen Saville. Check out the interview where McKee talks about his NBA (stolen) sock collection, watching my teammates CJ Bruton and Kirk Penney play and he thinks Wollongong is like living in Hawii.Nathan Jawai has began to

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8827414385587089263.post-4383393199332489102009-11-11T15:29:00.003+10:002009-11-11T15:58:19.439+10:00

Thanks to a concussion, AJ Ogilvy has been coming off the bench. One of Australia's best in the college system is AJ Ogilvy. Playing for the Vanderbilt Commodores but due to a concussion suffered during the preseason, his role has been limited to coming off the bench.The Commodores smashed their DII opponent, Alabama-Huntsville, in their exhibition game 91-56.This is how Yahoo! Sports has

John Rilliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15420594851744511835noreply@blogger.com1