Best Players in NBL History: Ricky Grace

• Four-time NBL champion with the Perth Wildcats (1990, 1991, 1995, 2000)
• Ranks 3rd all-time in NBL career assists with 3,470
• Seven-time All-NBL First Team selection (1991, 1993, 1994, 1996, 2001, 2002, 2003)

Ricky Grace was a dynamic point guard who led the Perth Wildcats to four championships during his 16-year NBL career, establishing himself as one of the league's all-time greats.

Overview

Ricky "Amazing" Grace arrived in Perth from the United States in 1990, quickly becoming the cornerstone of the Wildcats' dynasty. Standing 185cm tall, Grace possessed exceptional court vision, pinpoint passing ability, and a knack for scoring when needed. His leadership and clutch performances were instrumental in Perth's emergence as an NBL powerhouse throughout the 1990s and early 2000s.

Career snapshot

Grace made an immediate impact upon joining Perth, helping guide the team to back-to-back championships in his first two seasons. He continued to elevate his game, earning All-NBL First Team honours seven times between 1991 and 2003. Grace's consistency and longevity were remarkable, as he averaged 18.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 7.1 assists over 482 NBL games spanning 16 seasons.

Playing style

Grace was the quintessential floor general, expertly orchestrating Perth's offense with his elite playmaking skills. His ability to penetrate defenses and find open teammates made him one of the NBL's premier passers. Grace could also take over games as a scorer when needed, using his quickness and craftiness to create opportunities for himself. His leadership and composure in high-pressure situations earned him the nickname "Amazing Grace."

Why Ricky Grace is on our list

Ricky Grace's impact on the NBL and Perth Wildcats cannot be overstated. His four championships tie him for the most in league history, and he ranks third all-time in career assists. Grace's consistency over 16 seasons, coupled with his ability to elevate his game in crucial moments, places him among the NBL's most dominant players. His leadership was pivotal in establishing Perth as a perennial contender and helped shape the franchise's winning culture.

Five Fast Facts

1. Grace is one of only two players to record a triple-double in an NBL Grand Final series (1993)
2. He led the NBL in assists per game three times (1991, 1995, 2000)
3. Grace was named Grand Final MVP in Perth's 1990 championship run
4. He represented Australia at the 2000 Sydney Olympics after becoming a naturalised citizen
5. Grace's number 15 jersey was retired by the Perth Wildcats in recognition of his contributions

Career Highlights Timeline

1990: Debuts with Perth Wildcats, wins championship and Grand Final MVP
1991: Helps Perth win back-to-back titles, earns first All-NBL First Team selection
1995: Leads league in assists, wins third championship with Perth
2000: Captures fourth NBL championship, again leads league in assists
2001: Posts career-high 23.2 points per game
2003: Makes seventh and final All-NBL First Team
2005: Retires after 16 seasons, all with Perth Wildcats

Ricky Grace's combination of individual excellence and team success cements his legacy as one of the NBL's most dominant players. His impact on the Perth Wildcats franchise and the league as a whole places him among the all-time greats of Australian basketball.