26
Oct
4 min read
Best Players in NBL History: James Crawford
James Crawford drives the ball for the Allstars during the Ricky Grace Testimonial Game between the Perth Wildcats Allstars and NBL Legends at Challenge Stadium on August 14, 2005 in Perth, Australia. Photo: Paul Kane/Getty Images
'Alabama Slammer' is a 3-time champ, 4-time All-NBL First Team
- Top 10 all-time NBL scorer with 11,121 points (22.1 PPG)
- Top 10 all-time NBL rebounder with 4,794 rebounds (9.5 RPG)
- Second all-time in blocked shots with 788 (1.5 BPG)
James Crawford — The Alabama Slammer — was a dominant force in the NBL for nearly two decades, establishing himself as one of the most prolific scorers and rebounders in league history. Crawford was a major drawcard for NBL fans given his explosiveness around the rim and ability to dunk the basketball seemingly at will.
Overview
Crawford's 19-season NBL career spanned four teams, but he is best known for his 13 seasons with the Perth Wildcats. The American-born forward/centre was a key part of Perth's first three championships in 1990, 1991 and 1995. Crawford's combination of scoring touch, rebounding prowess, and shot-blocking ability made him one of the most complete big men the league has ever seen.
Career snapshot
After a brief stint with Geelong, Crawford joined the Canberra Cannons in 1986 where he averaged 27 points and 10.4 rebounds. He then moved to Perth in 1987, beginning a 13-year run that would define his career. Crawford was the cornerstone of the Wildcats' rise to prominence, helping lead them to their first ever playoffs and Grand Final appearance in his debut season.
Playing style
At 6'8" (203 cm), Crawford possessed the size to dominate in the paint but also the agility to face up and attack the rim. He had a deft shooting touch that extended to mid-range, making him a matchup nightmare for opposing big men. Crawford was an excellent rebounder on both ends and used his length and timing to be an elite shot-blocker.
Why James Crawford is on our list
Crawford's statistical accomplishments speak for themselves — he ranks in the top 10 all-time in points, rebounds and blocks. But beyond the numbers, Crawford was the centrepiece of Perth's first dynasty in the late 80s and early 90s. He was remarkably consistent, averaging over 20 points per game for eight straight seasons from 1987-1994.
Crawford's longevity and sustained excellence over nearly two decades cement his place among the NBL's all-time greats.
Five Fast Facts
- Averaged a career-high 33.4 points per game in 1987
- Named to the All-NBL First Team 4 times (1982, 1983, 1984, 1987)
- Won four Perth Wildcats club MVP awards
- Scored 57 points in a single game against Melbourne in 1987
- Selected to the NBL's 25th Anniversary Team in 2003
Career Highlights Timeline
1982: Makes NBL debut with Geelong Cats, averages 26 points and 10.9 rebounds
1986: Joins Canberra Cannons, averages 27 points and 10.4 rebounds
1987: Signs with Perth Wildcats, leads team to first ever Grand Final appearance
1990: Wins first NBL championship with Perth
1991: Claims back-to-back titles as Perth defeats Eastside Melbourne in Grand Final
1995: Captures third NBL championship, named to All-NBL First Team
2003: Plays final NBL game in one-game comeback for Canberra Cannons
James Crawford's impact on the NBL and particularly the Perth Wildcats franchise cannot be overstated. His combination of individual brilliance and team success make him one of the most dominant players in league history. Crawford's legacy as a prolific scorer, tenacious rebounder, and clutch performer in big moments ensures his place among the NBL's all-time greats.
