Goorjian wowed by NBL’s evolution

Having been involved with the NBL since 1984 as both a player and coach, Brian Goorjian has witnessed almost every phase of the league’s evolution, both the highs and the lows.

That perspective gives added weight to his praise, with the six-time championship-winning coach believing the NBL is currently in one of the most exciting and progressive periods in its history.

“The innovation and what the league’s doing right now, all of it is great for the game,” Goorjian said from HoopsFest in Perth.

“It brings people from all over the world here. I know there are scouts everywhere coming here. We’ve got AI (Allen Iverson) here.”

HoopsFest brings every team from across the NBL and WNBL together in one place for a celebration of basketball, culture and lifestyle.

Close to 10,000 fans attended Thursday’s double-header, with a sell-out looming on Friday as the hometown Wildcats take the floor at RAC Arena.

For Goorjian, it’s another powerful reminder of just how far the league has come in recent years.

“Our time here, the food, accommodation, the atmosphere at the game, I just think again the NBL, since I’ve come back from being away 12 years, has been unbelievably innovative and is a really hot topic now around the world,” he said.

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Goorjian also pointed to the growing depth of playing talent across the league, highlighted by the recent signings of NBA-experienced players Torrey Craig and John Jenkins.

“You’re looking at right now the possibility of three NBA guys coming here at this time of year, and you couldn’t do that 10 years ago,” he added.

“That says what? It’s not about the money. It’s about, ‘hey man, this thing’s hot’. It’s a great place to be. It’s got a great buzz about it, and things like this add to it.”

HoopsFest continues across the entire weekend, with tickets still available via hoopsfest.com.au.

Watch every game live on ESPN, with Sunday games live and free on 10.