22
Oct
4 min read
Melbourne United NBL Profile: Five things you need to know
From Tigers to a club unifying its fanbase with titles
Melbourne United is one of the most successful and well-known franchises in the National Basketball League (NBL), representing Melbourne, Victoria. Although Melbourne United was officially rebranded in 2014, the club’s roots date back to 1984, when the team was first established as the Melbourne Tigers.
With a history filled with championships, iconic players, and a large fan base, Melbourne United has long been a powerhouse in Australian basketball. The club’s legacy spans multiple decades and has played a pivotal role in shaping the NBL’s history.
Formation as Melbourne Tigers and early years (1984–1990)
Melbourne United traces its origins to the Melbourne Tigers, a team founded in 1984. The Tigers were initially formed by Lindsay Gaze, one of Australian basketball’s most influential figures, and became one of the NBL's most competitive teams over time. The team was built on a strong foundation, with Gaze coaching and his son, Andrew Gaze, leading the way as one of the best players in Australian basketball history.
The early years were marked by steady growth for the Tigers. By the end of the 1980s, the team had established itself as a formidable force in the NBL. Andrew Gaze’s emergence as a star player was crucial, as his scoring prowess and leadership elevated the team’s status. The Tigers’ fan base in Melbourne grew as they continued to compete against the best teams in the league.
The Golden era: Championships and Andrew Gaze (1990–2000)
The 1990s were a golden era for the Melbourne Tigers. Under Lindsay Gaze’s coaching and Andrew Gaze’s on-court brilliance, the team enjoyed a period of sustained success, becoming one of the most dominant teams in the NBL. The Tigers’ first major breakthrough came in the 1993 season when they won their first NBL Championship, defeating the Perth Wildcats in the Grand Final. This victory marked the beginning of a championship era for the team.
The Tigers’ success continued in 1997, when they claimed their second NBL title. Once again, Andrew Gaze played a pivotal role, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBL history. Alongside other key players like Mark Bradtke and Leon Trimmingham, the Tigers remained a dominant force throughout the 1990s.
Andrew Gaze’s influence on the team cannot be overstated. He is not only the all-time leading scorer in NBL history but also a symbol of the Tigers’ success during this period. The Tigers became synonymous with excellence in Australian basketball, and their two championships in the 1990s cemented their place as one of the most successful teams in NBL history.
Rebranding to Melbourne United (2014) and continued success
In 2014, the Melbourne Tigers underwent a significant transformation when the team was rebranded as Melbourne United. The decision to change the name was made to unify the entire city’s basketball fan base, moving beyond the traditional identity associated with the Tigers. While the name changed, the club’s legacy remained, and Melbourne United set out to continue the winning tradition established by the Tigers.
The rebrand breathed new life into the club, and Melbourne United quickly reestablished itself as a powerhouse in the NBL. The team found immediate success under the new name, reaching the NBL Finals multiple times and maintaining a strong connection with its fan base in Melbourne. The rebranding also allowed the team to attract new sponsors and build a broader following.
Championship dominance (2018–Present)
The rebranding of Melbourne United marked the beginning of another era of success. In 2018, Melbourne United won their first championship under the new name, defeating the Adelaide 36ers in the Grand Final series. This championship was a milestone for the club, as it represented the continuation of their winning ways after the rebranding.
Melbourne United continued to be a dominant force in the league, winning another NBL Championship in 2021, when they defeated the Perth Wildcats. Led by head coach Dean Vickerman and key players like Chris Goulding, Jock Landale, and Mitch McCarron, United proved themselves as one of the most formidable teams in the NBL. Their 2021 title further solidified their position as one of the NBL's elite clubs.
International influence and continued growth
Melbourne United has also embraced the growing global interest in basketball, particularly through the NBL’s Next Stars Program. The program, which brings top international prospects to the NBL before they enter the NBA Draft, has attracted players like RJ Hampton and Jock Landale, who have gone on to achieve success in the NBA.
The club’s commitment to developing young talent, attracting international stars, and building a strong local presence has ensured that Melbourne United remains at the forefront of the NBL’s growth. Their combination of championship success, international influence, and fan engagement makes them one of the most respected franchises in Australian basketball.
Five Fast Facts about Melbourne United
- Established in 1984 (as Melbourne Tigers): Melbourne United’s roots go back to the foundation of the Melbourne Tigers in 1984, making them one of the oldest and most successful franchises in NBL history.
- Four NBL Championships: The team has won a total of four NBL championships—two as the Melbourne Tigers (1993, 1997) and two as Melbourne United (2018, 2021).
- Andrew Gaze Legacy: Andrew Gaze, the greatest player in NBL history, played for the Melbourne Tigers, winning two championships with the team and becoming the all-time leading scorer in the league.
- Rebranded in 2014: The team was rebranded as Melbourne United in 2014 to represent the entire city of Melbourne, moving beyond its original Tigers identity.
- Home Games at John Cain Arena: Melbourne United plays its home games at the John Cain Arena, one of the largest indoor sports venues in Australia, with a capacity of over 10,000, providing a world-class game-day experience for fans.
Melbourne United’s journey from the Melbourne Tigers to one of the most successful NBL franchises highlights the club’s rich history, championship pedigree, and bright future. As they continue to dominate on the court and expand their influence globally, Melbourne United remains a pillar of Australian basketball.
