Best Players in NBL History: Glen Saville

• 563 NBL games played (4th all-time)
• 2001 NBL Champion and Finals MVP with Wollongong Hawks
• 5-time All-NBL Team selection (2001-2005)

Glen Saville was a versatile forward who became one of the NBL's most consistent and durable players over a 19-year career, primarily with the Wollongong Hawks.

Overview

Glen Saville established himself as one of the NBL's premier two-way forwards during his nearly two-decade career. Known for his defensive prowess, rebounding ability, and steady offensive contributions, Saville was the cornerstone of multiple playoff runs for the Wollongong Hawks. His longevity and consistency made him one of the most respected players of his era.

Career snapshot

Saville made his NBL debut with the Illawarra Hawks in 1995 at just 19 years old. He quickly developed into a key rotation player, improving his stats each season. By the late 1990s, Saville had become one of Wollongong's core pieces alongside players like Mat Campbell and CJ Bruton.

The highlight of Saville's career came in 2001 when he led the Hawks to their first and only NBL championship. Saville was named Finals MVP after a dominant performance in the deciding game against the Townsville Crocodiles, posting 18 points and 12 rebounds.

From 2001 to 2005, Saville was at the peak of his powers, earning five consecutive All-NBL Team selections. During this stretch, he consistently averaged around 15-17 points, 9-10 rebounds, and 4 assists per game. His all-around contributions on both ends of the floor made him one of the league's most impactful players.

Playing style

Saville was the prototype of a modern stretch four, able to score from multiple areas of the court while also being a tenacious rebounder and defender. At 6'6" (197 cm), he had the size to battle in the paint but the agility to defend on the perimeter as well.

Offensively, Saville was a reliable scorer with a soft touch around the basket and the ability to hit mid-range jumpers. As his career progressed, he extended his range to become a legitimate three-point threat. His passing ability for a forward was also noteworthy, often initiating the offense from the high post or finding cutters from the wing.

Defensively, Saville was a standout. His combination of strength, quickness, and basketball IQ allowed him to guard multiple positions effectively. He was particularly adept at playing the passing lanes, finishing his career ranked 5th all-time in steals.

Why Glen Saville is on our list

Glen Saville's inclusion on the list of most dominant NBL players is justified by his consistent excellence over a long period and his critical role in Wollongong's success. While he may not have the gaudy scoring numbers of some other stars, Saville's all-around game and defensive impact made him one of the most valuable players of his era.

His longevity is remarkable, finishing 4th all-time in games played. This durability allowed him to amass impressive career totals, ranking in the top 25 in points, top 5 in rebounds, top 10 in assists, and top 5 in steals.

Saville's peak years from 2001-2005 were particularly dominant. During this stretch, he was consistently one of the league's best two-way players, earning All-NBL honors each season and leading Wollongong to multiple playoff appearances.

His leadership and consistency were crucial to Wollongong's success as a small-market team competing against bigger clubs. Saville's loyalty to the Hawks (aside from one season with Sydney) endeared him to fans and made him the face of the franchise for over a decade.

Five Fast Facts

1. Saville is one of only five Wollongong Hawks players to have his jersey number (12) retired.
2. He played in 563 NBL games, the 4th most in league history.
3. Saville ranks 5th all-time in total rebounds and 5th in total steals.
4. He was named to the All-NBL Team five consecutive seasons from 2001 to 2005.
5. In 2005, Saville finished 5th in NBL MVP voting, the highest of his career.

Career Highlights Timeline

1995: Makes NBL debut with Illawarra Hawks at age 19

1998: Helps lead Wollongong to the playoffs in their first season at WIN Entertainment Centre

2001: Wins NBL championship with Wollongong, named Finals MVP

2001-2005: Named to All-NBL Team for five consecutive seasons

2005: Finishes 5th in NBL MVP voting, leads Hawks to Grand Final series

2007: Signs with Sydney Kings for one season

2008: Returns to Wollongong Hawks

2013: Retires after 19 seasons in the NBL

Glen Saville's career exemplifies consistency, versatility, and loyalty. His impact on the Wollongong Hawks and the broader NBL cements his status as one of the league's most dominant players, particularly in his role as a defensive anchor and all-around forward. While he may not have the name recognition of some other stars, Saville's contributions to the game in Australia were immense and worthy of recognition among the NBL's all-time greats.