Brisbane Bullets NBL Profile: Five things you need to know

The Brisbane Bullets are one of the oldest and most successful franchises in the National Basketball League (NBL). Based in Brisbane, Queensland, the team was established in 1979, the same year the NBL was founded, making them one of the league's original clubs.

Over their long history, the Bullets have won multiple championships and been home to some of the greatest players in Australian basketball. Known for their passionate fan base and competitive spirit, the Bullets are a key pillar in the history and development of the NBL.

Formation and early success (1979–1990)

The Brisbane Bullets were one of the foundation teams of the NBL, competing in the league’s inaugural season in 1979. In the early years, the Bullets built a strong foundation under head coach Brian Kerle and soon became one of the premier teams in the competition. They made their first significant impact in the 1984 season when they reached the NBL Grand Final but lost to the Canberra Cannons.

Their breakthrough came two years later, in 1985, when the Bullets won their first NBL Championship, defeating the Adelaide 36ers in a thrilling Grand Final. This victory marked Brisbane’s arrival as a dominant force in Australian basketball. With a roster that included NBL legends like Larry Sengstock and Ron Radliff, the Bullets established a winning culture that would carry them through the decade.

The Brisbane Bullets continued their success in the late 1980s, reaching the Grand Final again in 1986 and winning their second championship in 1987. The 1987 championship team, led by head coach Brian Kerle, featured a powerful mix of Australian talent and American imports and was considered one of the most well-rounded teams of the era.

Championship glory and competitive dominance (1990–1999)

The 1990s saw the Brisbane Bullets continue their competitive success. They remained a consistent playoff contender throughout the decade, building on their strong legacy. Led by N MVP Derek Rucker, the Bullets once again reached the NBL Grand Final in 1990, facing off against the Perth Wildcats, but fell short of claiming their third championship.

The Bullets remained one of the league’s most popular and competitive teams, and in 1998, they returned to the pinnacle of the NBL by winning their third championship. The 1998 season was one of their most memorable, as they defeated the South East Melbourne Magic in the Grand Final. With a talented squad that included Leroy Loggins, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NBL history, the Bullets solidified their position as one of the league's premier franchises.

Financial difficulties and hiatus (2000–2015)

The early 2000s were a challenging period for the Brisbane Bullets. Despite their historic success, the team faced financial difficulties, leading to instability both on and off the court. By 2008, the situation worsened, and the Bullets were forced to withdraw from the NBL due to financial insolvency. This marked a dark chapter in the team’s history, as Brisbane, one of Australia’s largest cities, was left without a professional basketball team for several years.

For nearly a decade, the Bullets remained absent from the league, with several attempts to revive the team falling short. However, during this period, the NBL began to recover from its own financial difficulties, and there was increasing demand for the return of the Bullets.

The return to the NBL and resurgence (2016–Present)

After an eight-year absence, the Brisbane Bullets made a highly anticipated return to the NBL for the 2016-17 season, under new ownership and management. The team was reestablished with a focus on rebuilding the brand and restoring their legacy as one of the league’s most successful franchises.

While their return to the NBL was met with enthusiasm, the Bullets struggled to regain their former dominance in the early years. However, by 2018, they had become competitive once again, making the playoffs for the first time since their return. With a mix of young talent and experienced players, the Bullets have worked to restore their reputation as a formidable team in the NBL.

Under head coach Andrej Lemanis, the Bullets have attracted high-profile international players and promising local talent, helping the team re-establish itself as a contender in the league. With strong community support and an eye toward the future, the Bullets aim to add more championships to their storied history in the coming years.

Five Fast Facts about the Brisbane Bullets

1. Founded in 1979: The Brisbane Bullets were one of the original teams in the NBL and have been a key part of the league’s history since its inception.
2. Three-Time NBL Champions: The Bullets have won three NBL championships, claiming titles in 1985, 1987, and 1998, cementing their status as one of the league's most successful franchises.
3. Leroy Loggins Legend: Leroy Loggins, who played the majority of his career with the Bullets, is widely considered one of the greatest players in NBL history. He was instrumental in their championship runs and became a club icon.
4. Hiatus and Return: The Bullets were forced to withdraw from the NBL in 2008 due to financial struggles but made a successful return to the league in 2016 after an eight-year absence.
5. Home Games at Nissan Arena: The Brisbane Bullets play their home games at the Nissan Arena in Brisbane, which has a capacity of approximately 5,000 fans and provides an exciting atmosphere for NBL action.

With a rich history, three championships, and a passionate fan base, the Brisbane Bullets remain one of the most iconic teams in Australian basketball. As they continue to rebuild and aim for future success, the Bullets' legacy in the NBL is as strong as ever.