19
Feb
Player Profile
How coaching reignited Munger's passion to play
Nicole Munger of the Capitals during the round 14 WNBL match between Geelong United and Canberra Capitals at The Geelong Arena on February 1, 2025 in Geelong. Photo: Adam Trafford/Getty Images
Nicole Munger reveals her basketball career was over but coaching brought her back
- Nicole Munger was named the 2024 NBL1 East Finals MVP
- The 27-year-old is the NBL1 East back-to-back MVP
- Munger played a key role in the UC Capitals 2024-25 WNBL season
NBL1 East MVP Nicole Munger is back to help the Newcastle Falcons defend their 2024 championship.
Munger, 27, told NBL1.com.au: “I have such an appreciation (for playing), because I stopped playing for a while and how much I missed it."
She revealed she took two years off playing after finishing her NCAAW's career at the University of Michigan.
"I finished college and I was like 'I'm done playing, that’s it. That’s all she wrote'," Munger said.
"I loved it (coaching), it was everything I wanted… I really love teaching.
"But it was in that moment when I was training, and I was like 'Wow'. I’ve gotten better, just because I was smarter. I was having so much fun, my competitive drive was probably even higher than it was at Michigan."
Newcastle start their title defence against Sydney Comets at Newcastle Stadium on March 29 at 5pm (AEST).
Key Details
Name: Nicole Munger
Age: 27
Team(s): Newcastle Falcons
Position: Forward
Size: 178cm
Playing Style
Munger is a tough, versatile forward who combines athleticism with a high basketball IQ. Her playing style is characterised by her ability to impact the game on both ends of the court. Offensively, Munger is a threat from multiple positions, showcasing a reliable three-point shot and the ability to drive to the basket with power and finesse.
Her footwork and body control allow her to create space for her shots, while her court vision enables her to find open teammates when defences collapse on her. Defensively, Munger is known for her tenacity and ability to guard multiple positions, often taking on the challenge of defending the opponent's best player.
She is a tough cover.
Career
Nicole Munger's professional career began in the NBL1 with the Newcastle Falcons in 2022. Her rookie season was nothing short of spectacular, averaging 25.7 points per game and immediately establishing herself as one of the league's premier scorers.
Her impact was felt beyond just scoring, as she also contributed significantly in rebounds and steals, showcasing her all-around game.
In the 2023 season, while her scoring average dipped slightly to 19 points per game, her efficiency improved, and she played a crucial role in leading the Falcons.
The 2024 season saw Munger elevate her game to new heights. She increased her scoring output to 24.6 points per game while improving her shooting percentages across the board. This breakout performance earned her a second NBL1 East MVP.
Munger's success in the NBL1 caught the attention UC Capitals. She has now played more the 50 WNBL games for the Caps.
Five Fast Facts
- Munger scored more than 30 points six times in NBL1 2024
- Munger is the 2023 and 2024 NBL1 East MVP
- Munger won the NBL1 East Grand Final MVP in 2024
- Munger spent four years at the University of Michigan
- Munger has played 58 games in her Newcastle Falcons career
Nicole Munger's rapid ascent in Australian basketball is a testament to her exceptional talent and work ethic.
In just a few short years, she has gone from a promising American "rookie" to one of NBL1's most dominant players and a key figure in the UC Capitals WNBL team. Her ability to impact the game in multiple ways makes her a valuable asset to any team she plays for.
As Munger enters the prime of her career, the basketball world eagerly anticipates her continued growth and success — except for those who have to go up against her.
