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| imagesize = 200px
| imagesize = 200px
| leagues = {{NZL}} [[National Basketball League (New Zealand)|NBL]]
| leagues = {{NZL}} [[National Basketball League (New Zealand)|NBL]]
| founded =
| founded = 1987
| history = Waikato Warriors (1991–2000)<br>Waikato Titans (2001–2005)<br>Waikato Pistons (2006–2011, 2013–2014)
| arena = [[Hamilton Boys' High School]], [[Hamilton, New Zealand|Hamilton]] <br /> [[Claudelands Events Centre]], [[Hamilton, New Zealand|Hamilton]]
| arena = [[Hamilton Boys' High School]], [[Hamilton, New Zealand|Hamilton]] <br /> [[Claudelands Arena|Claudelands Events Centre]], [[Hamilton, New Zealand|Hamilton]]
| location = [[Hamilton, New Zealand]]
| location = [[Hamilton, New Zealand]]
| colors = Black, Yellow, Red, White
| colors = Black, Yellow, Red, White
| President =
| President =
| vice-president =
| vice-president =
| coach = [[Pero Cameron]]
| coach =
| championships = '''4''' (2001, 02, 08, 09)
| championships = '''4''' (2001, 02, 08, 09)
| website =
| website =
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}}
}}


The '''Waikato Pistons''' are a [[New Zealand]] professional [[basketball]] team that represents the [[Waikato Region]] in the [[National Basketball League (New Zealand)|New Zealand National Basketball League]].
The '''Waikato Pistons''' were a [[New Zealand]] professional [[basketball]] team that represented the [[Waikato Region]] in the [[National Basketball League (New Zealand)|New Zealand National Basketball League]].


The Pistons did not compete in the 2012 NBL season as the Waikato Basketball Council decided to make community basketball its top priority.<ref name="Stuff.co.nz_5858847">{{cite news |url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/basketball/5858847/Waikato-Pistons-out-of-2012-national-league |title=Waikato Pistons out of 2012 national league |author=Anderson, Ian |date=27 October 2011 |work=[[Stuff.co.nz]] |accessdate=30 November 2011}}</ref> In November 2012, it was announced that the Pistons would return to the NBL in 2013.<ref>[http://www.basketball.org.nz/news/pistons-return-to-nbl/ Pistons return to NBL]</ref><ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/basketball/8233525/Waikato-Pistons-back-in-the-action Waikato Pistons back in the action]</ref>
The Pistons did not compete in the 2012 NBL season after the Waikato Basketball Council decided to make community basketball its top priority.<ref name="Stuff.co.nz_5858847">{{cite news |last=Anderson|first=Ian|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/basketball/5858847/Waikato-Pistons-out-of-2012-national-league |title=Waikato Pistons out of 2012 national league |date=27 October 2011 |work=Stuff.co.nz |accessdate=30 November 2011}}</ref> In November 2012, it was announced that the Pistons would return to the NBL in 2013.<ref>[http://www.basketball.org.nz/news/pistons-return-to-nbl/ Pistons return to NBL]</ref><ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/basketball/8233525/Waikato-Pistons-back-in-the-action Waikato Pistons back in the action]</ref> However, after just two seasons, the Pistons again pulled out of the NBL for the 2015 season due to financial considerations after the Waikato Basketball Council felt their resources were better placed on less expensive development operations.<ref>[http://nzhoops.co.nz/pistons-2015-nbl/ Pistons Out Of 2015 NBL]</ref><ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/basketball/63565576/Waikato-Pistons-pull-out-of-NBL-competition Waikato Pistons pull out of NBL competition]</ref>


== Current roster ==
== Last roster ==
{{Basketball roster header|team=Waikato Pistons
{{Basketball roster header|team=Waikato Pistons
| color1 = #FFFF00 | bg1 = #000000 | color2 = #FF0000 | bg2 = #000000}}
| color1 = #FFFF00 | bg1 = #000000 | color2 = #FF0000 | bg2 = #000000}}
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== History ==
== History ==
The club made their first appearance in the NBL in 1987 and were called the Waikato Warriors from 1991 to 2000. In 2001, they were renamed the Titans before changing their name again in 2006 to the Pistons.
In March 2006 it was decided that the side would change their name to the Pistons from the Titans which they used from 2000-2005. This was primarily because Hamilton is now the motorsport capital of New Zealand after gaining the rights to host the [[V8 supercars]] and the New Zealand leg of the [[World Rally Championship]]. Before this they were referred to as the Waikato Warriors . The Pistons play their home games at the Hamilton YMCA . Current players include New Zealand young [[Tall Blacks]] stars [[Thomas Abercrombie (basketball)|Thomas Abercrombie]] and [[Alex Pledger]]. After the death of former coach [[Murray McMahon]], [[Dean Vickerman]], the assistant coach of the [[New Zealand Breakers]] has been signed on to coach them and has coached them to a championship in 2009, with Justin Bailey being named the Finals [[Most Valuable Player]].


===2000 to 2005===
In 2010 the Waikato Pistons home venues will change. They will keep playing at the Te Awamutu Events Center, but will switch the YMCA in Hamilton for the new gym at Hamilton Boys High School.
In 2000, the Warriors lost in the semi-final to the Nelson Giants 105-100 with import Darryl Johnson top scoring for the Warriors with 27 points along with 19 rebounds, Phil Jones of the Giants top scored for them with 25 points. In 2001, the newly named Titans enjoyed much success winning the NBL championship for the first time under new head coach Jeff Green. Clifton Bush top scored in this game with 26 points and 11 rebounds as they defeated the Wellington Saints. The Titans went on to win back-to-back championships in 2002 after defeating the Nelson Giants, 85-83. [[Brendon Pongia]] top scored in this game with 17. In 2003, the Pistons went for three in a row but lost in the final to Wellington 97-88 with the top scorer being [[Pero Cameron]]. The 2004 season saw a change in coaching with the Titans bringing in Tim McTamney as head coach. They finished sixth with a record of 10 wins and 8 losses. The following season was the best under McTamney with the Titans losing in the semi-final to the Nelson Giants, 77-65. The top scorer was Greg Lewis with 22 points.


===2006 to 2009===
After an incident in a Napier bar, [[Eric Devendorf]] was released by the club, not only for that reason but also because [[Dean Vickerman]] felt he needed a specialised point guard to play the position. After the release of Devendorf, [[Carl Krauser]], who played for the University of Pittsburgh, was signed by the Pistons being a specialised point guard at 1.85m (6 ft 1 in). However, the Pistons coaching staff decided Krauser wasn't the right fit for the Pistons, so they released him and picked up forward Rashad Tucker who played for the [[Melbourne Tigers]].
The next year saw another coaching change with Murray McMahon stepping into the shoes of head coach for the newly named Pistons team. In March 2006, it was decided that the club would change their name to the Pistons from the Titans which they used from 2001 to 2005. This was primarily because Hamilton became the motorsport capital of New Zealand after gaining the rights to host the [[V8 Supercars]] and the New Zealand leg of the [[World Rally Championship]]. The 2006 season, however, saw the Pistons finish ninth with a dismal 4-14 record. The 2007 season ended with the Pistons losing the semi-final in overtime to the Nelson Giants 109-103 with the top scorer being Jason Crowe with 28. The 2008 season saw the Pistons once again bring the winning feeling back to Waikato as they won the championship over the Wellington Saints in a best-of-three series that the Pistons won 2-0. The top scorers in these games were Jason Crowe with 26 in the first game and Pero Cameron with 20 in the second game. The 2009 season saw another coaching change after the unexpected death of Murray McMahon. Breakers assistant coach Dean Vickerman filled the head coach vacancy and led the Pistons to their second straight title, defeating the Nelson Giants 2-0 in a best-of-three series. Top scorers were Adam Ballinger with 22 in the first game and Justin Bailey with 32 in the second game. The 2009 season saw the Waikato franchise win back-to-back championships for the second time in their history.


== Management ==
===2010 season===
In 2010, the Pistons made the finals again under Dean Vickerman despite a mid-season mishap. In April 2010, after an incident in a Napier bar, import [[Eric Devendorf]] was released by the club just hours after spending time in a Napier police station.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/basketball/3573101/Eric-Devendorf-dumped-by-Waikato-Pistons Eric Devendorf dumped by Waikato Pistons]</ref> They went on to face a strong Wellington Saints team in the finals but lost the series 2-1. The top scorers in the games for the Pistons were Tom Abercrombie with 32 in the first game, Rashad Tucker with 18 in the second and Tom Abercrombie again in game three with 29.
* Head Coach - [[Pero Cameron]]
* Assistant Coach(es) - [[Zico Coronel]], [[Anthony Corban]]
* Manager - Dave Murray


⚫
===2011 season===
== Pistons since 2000 ==
An exciting signing for the Pistons in 2011 was former [[Harbour Heat]] big man [[B. J. Anthony]] who was also a development player for the [[New Zealand Breakers]] in the Australian [[National Basketball League (Australia)|NBL]]. The first of the import signings for the Pistons was former Louisville star [[Jerry Smith (basketball)|Jerry Smith]] who had recently played in the [[NBA D-League]] for the [[Springfield Armor]] where he averaged 13 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists per game. The second was Fresno State standout [[Sylvester Seay]]. In his final year at Fresno State, Seay averaged 15.3 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. However, he was later released by the club after not suiting coach Vickerman's style. Former import Jason Crowe subsequently stepped in to fill the Pistons' vacant import spot for the rest of the season. The Pistons also welcomed back swingman [[Thomas Abercrombie (basketball)|Thomas Abercrombie]], big man [[Alex Pledger]], live wire [[Ray Cameron]], shooting guard [[Hayden Allen]] and solid sixth man [[Puke Lenden]]. Youngster [[Marco Alexander]] also joined the Pistons for 2011. Despite the promising squad, the Pistons were defeated in the semi-final, losing 95-86 to the Hawke's Bay Hawks who would eventually end up losing the final to a powerful Wellington Saints team.
In 2000 the Pistons were called the Warriors. This changed the next year to the Titans then again in 2007 to the Pistons to account for the fact that Hamilton was hosting the V8 Supercars. In 2000 the Warriors lost in the semi-final to the Nelson Giants 105-100 with import Darryl Johnson top scoring for the Warriors with 27 points along with 19 rebounds, Phil Jones of the Giants top scored for them with 25 points.


⚫
===2013 season===
In 2001 the newly named Titans enjoyed much success winning the NBL championship for the first time under new head coach [[Jeff Green (basketball coach)|Jeff Green]]. Clifton Bush top scored in this game with 26 points and 11 rebounds. They beat the Wellington Saints. The same thing happened the next year, Jeff Green coached the Titans to the championship for the second year running beating the Nelson Giants 85-83. [[Brendon Pongia]] top scored in this game with 17. The next was much of the same except the Titans lost the final to Wellington 97-88 with the top scorer [[Pero Cameron]]. The next year saw a change in coaching with the Titans bringing in [[Tim McTamney]] to coach them. They finished sixth with a record of 10 wins and 8 losses. The next season was the best under McTamney with the Titans losing in the semi-final to the Nelson Giants 77-65. The top scorer was Greg Lewis with 22 points. The next year was the worst the Titans experienced finishing 9th overall with a record of 4 wins and 14 losses. The next year saw another change in coaching staff with Murray McMahon stepping into the shoes of head coach, this also saw the name change to the Pistons. This season ended with the Pistons losing the semi-final in overtime to the Nelson Giants 109-103 and the top scorer for the Pistons was Jason Crowe with 28. The next season was a fairytale season for the Pistons, once again bringing the winning feeling back to the Waikato, winning the championship over the Wellington Saints in a best of 3 series the Pistons won 2-0. The top scorers in these games were Jason Crowe with 26 in the first game and Pero Cameron with 20 in the second game. The next season saw another coaching changed after the sad death of Murray McMahon. Breakers assistant coach Dean Vickerman filled the head coach vacancy and led the Pistons to their second straight title, beating out the Nelson Giants 2-0 in a best of 3 series. Top scorers were Adam Ballinger with 22 in the first game and Justin Bailey with 32 in the second game. In 2010 the Pistons made the finals again under Dean Vickerman, they came up against a strong Wellington Saints team, unfortunately losing the series 2-1. The top scorers in the games for the Pistons were Tom Abercrombie with 32 in the first game, Rashad Tucker with 18 in the second and Tom Abercrombie in game 3 with 29.
⚫
The Pistons returned to the NBL in 2013 after not participating in the 2012 season. Notable signings included the return of [[Marco Alexander]] and James Comer, former Pirates forward Nick Barrow and ex-Harbour Heat swingman, Ana Haku, as well as [[New Zealand Breakers]] point guard Tai Webster, the younger brother of Wellington Saints and New Zealand Breakers shooting guard, [[Corey Webster (basketball)|Corey Webster]].<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/basketball/8516797/Tai-Websters-signing-should-get-Pistons-firing Tai Webster's signing should get Pistons firing]</ref> Their first import was former Clemson University standout Vernon Hamilton. While at Clemson he averaged 12.3 points, 3.4 assists and 3.1 rebounds per game. The second import for 2013 was ex-Harbour Heat centre, Zack Atkinson.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/basketball/8552975/Waikato-nab-big-man-Atkinson-to-bolster-side Waikato nab big man Atkinson to bolster side]</ref> On 2 May 2013, the Pistons released Hamilton just two games into the season.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/waikato-times/sport/8621542/Hamilton-wrong-fit-for-Waikato-Pistons Hamilton wrong fit for Waikato Pistons]</ref> Then on 7 May, the Pistons signed import forward Garrius Holloman who had been recently released from the Manawatu Jets.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/waikato-times/sport/8638710/New-import-for-Waikato-Pistons New import for Waikato Pistons]</ref>


== 2011 season ==
===2014 season===
⚫
In November 2013, Pero Cameron was announced as the organisation's new head coach/player development manager.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/basketball/9434939/Cameron-a-man-Pistons-can-look-up-to Cameron a man Pistons can look up to]</ref>
An exciting signing for the Pistons this year is former [[Harbour Heat]] big man [[B. J. Anthony]]. B. J. is a development player for the [[New Zealand Breakers]] in the [[Australasia|Australasian]] [[National Basketball League (Australasia)|NBL]] and last season played for the Harbour Heat in the New Zealand NBL.


⚫
In January 2014, the Pistons announced the signing of New Zealand Breakers development player Jack Salt. They also announced the signing of Alex Talma and the re-signing of Nick Barrow.<ref>[http://nzhoops.co.nz/pistons-grab-salt/ Pistons Grab Salt]</ref> On 5 February 2014, Australian Zac Carter signed with the Pistons for the 2014 season.<ref>[http://nzhoops.co.nz/pistons-add-carter/ Pistons Add Carter]</ref> On 11 February 2014, [[Casey Frank]], a former Wellington Saints championship player, signed with the Pistons for the 2014 season.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/waikato-times/sport/other/9708783/Casey-Frank-signs-with-the-Waikato-Pistons Casey Frank signs with the Waikato Pistons]</ref>
The first of the import signings for the Pistons this season is former Louisville star [[Jerry Smith (basketball)|Jerry Smith]] who has recently played for the [[Springfield Armor]] in the NBA D-League and averaging 13 points 3 rebounds and 3 assists.


⚫
On 20 February 2014, Thomas Abercrombie signed with the Pistons for the 2014 season, returning to the club after playing with them from 2009 to 2011.<ref>[http://nzhoops.co.nz/abercrombie-signs-pistons/ Abercrombie Signs With Pistons]</ref> On 31 March 2014, Abercrombie was released from his contract to allow him to sign in France.<ref>[http://nzhoops.co.nz/abercrombie-signs-france/ Abercrombie Signs in France]</ref>
The second is Fresno State standout [[Sylvester Seay]]. Seay has been playing in Korea and is already loving life in New Zealand after only a few days in the country. In his final year at Fresno State University, Seay averaged 15.3 points, 5.8 rebounds in 29 minutes. Good numbers in a low scoring league. But since the beginning of the season Seay has been dropped as he was not suited to coach Vickerman's style. So a familiar face has been signed in order to fill the 2nd import spot for the Pistons. [[Jason Crowe (basketball)|Jason Crowe]] has been called back to the Pistons to help win another championship, and so far that could very well be the case with Crowe leading the NBL in assists and steals.


⚫
On 11 March 2014, the Pistons signed former Otago Nuggets import, Akeem Wright, for the 2014 season.<ref>[http://nzhoops.co.nz/pistons-title-contention/ Pistons Signal Title Contention With Signing]</ref> On 24 March 2014, the Pistons signed former [[Sydney Kings]] import, [[Corin Henry]], for the 2014 season.<ref>[http://nzhoops.co.nz/pistons-add-anbl-star-loaded-roster/ Pistons Add ANBL All-Star To Loaded Roster]</ref>
The Pistons also welcome back swingman [[Thomas Abercrombie (basketball)|Thomas Abercrombie]], big man [[Alex Pledger]], live wire [[Ray Cameron]], shooting guard [[Hayden Allen]] and solid 6th man [[Puke Lenden]].

The Pistons also have a new back-up point guard to play behind [[Jerry Smith (basketball)|Jerry Smith]] who has been outstanding in the pre-season games by the name of [[Marco Alexander]] from [[Auckland]].

Marco received the MVP at the National Championships in 2010, and also won 4 age group national titles with North Harbour and has received 5 tournament team mentions in age group tournaments. He was also a member of the New Zealand under-18 basketball team and the NZ Breakers Development team in 2009.

But once again the Pistons felt defeat in the semi-final, losing 95-86 to the Hawkes Bay Hawks who would eventually end up losing the final to a powerful Wellington Saints team.

⚫
== 2013 season ==
⚫
The Pistons returned to the NBL in 2013. Notable signings included ex-Pistons guards [[Marco Alexander]] and James Comer, former Pirates forward Nick Barrow and ex Harbour Heat swingman, Ana Haku, as well as [[New Zealand Breakers]] point guard Tai Webster, the younger brother of Wellington Saints and New Zealand Breakers shooting guard, [[Corey Webster (basketball)|Corey Webster]].<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/basketball/8516797/Tai-Websters-signing-should-get-Pistons-firing Tai Webster's signing should get Pistons firing]</ref> Their first import was former Clemson University standout Vernon Hamilton. While at Clemson he averaged 12.3ppg, 3.4apg and 3.1rpg. The second import for 2013 was ex Harbour Heat centre, Zack Atkinson.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/basketball/8552975/Waikato-nab-big-man-Atkinson-to-bolster-side Waikato nab big man Atkinson to bolster side]</ref> On May 2, 2013, the Pistons released Hamilton just two games into the season.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/waikato-times/sport/8621542/Hamilton-wrong-fit-for-Waikato-Pistons Hamilton wrong fit for Waikato Pistons]</ref> Then on May 7, the Pistons signed import forward Garrius Holloman who had been recently released from the Manawatu Jets.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/waikato-times/sport/8638710/New-import-for-Waikato-Pistons New import for Waikato Pistons]</ref>

⚫
== 2014 season ==
⚫
In November 2013, [[Pero Cameron]] was announced as the organisation's new player development manager and will also take over as the head coach as well.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/basketball/9434939/Cameron-a-man-Pistons-can-look-up-to Cameron a man Pistons can look up to]</ref>

In January 2014, the Pistons announced the signing of New Zealand Breakers development player Jack Salt. They also announced the signing of Alex Talma and the re-signing of Nick Barrow.<ref>[http://nzhoops.co.nz/pistons-grab-salt/ Pistons Grab Salt]</ref>

On 5 February 2014, Australian Zac Carter signed with the Pistons for the 2014 season.<ref>[http://nzhoops.co.nz/pistons-add-carter/ Pistons Add Carter]</ref>

⚫
On 11 February 2014, [[Casey Frank]], a former Wellington Saints championship player, signed with the Pistons for the 2014 season.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/waikato-times/sport/other/9708783/Casey-Frank-signs-with-the-Waikato-Pistons Casey Frank signs with the Waikato Pistons]</ref>

⚫
On 20 February 2014, [[Thomas Abercrombie (basketball)|Thomas Abercrombie]] signed with the Pistons for the 2014 season, returning to the club after playing with them from 2009 to 2011.<ref>[http://nzhoops.co.nz/abercrombie-signs-pistons/ Abercrombie Signs With Pistons]</ref> On 31 March 2014, Abercrombie was released from his contract to allow him to sign in France.<ref>[http://nzhoops.co.nz/abercrombie-signs-france/ Abercrombie Signs in France]</ref>

On 11 March 2014, the Pistons signed former Otago Nuggets import, Akeem Wright, for the 2014 season.<ref>[http://nzhoops.co.nz/pistons-title-contention/ Pistons Signal Title Contention With Signing]</ref>

⚫
On 24 March 2014, the Pistons signed former [[Sydney Kings]] import, [[Corin Henry]], for the 2014 season.<ref>[http://nzhoops.co.nz/pistons-add-anbl-star-loaded-roster/ Pistons Add ANBL All-Star To Loaded Roster]</ref>


== Notable former players ==
== Notable former players ==
{{columns-list|2|
* {{flagicon|United States}} [[Adam Ballinger]]
* {{flagicon|United States}} [[Adam Ballinger]]
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Pero Cameron]]
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Pero Cameron]]
Line 115: Line 94:
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Dillon Boucher]]
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Dillon Boucher]]
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Prem Krishna]]
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Prem Krishna]]
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Torr Woodhouse]]
* {{flagicon|United States}} [[Clifton Bush]]
* {{flagicon|United States}} [[Clifton Bush]]
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[George Le'Afa]]
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[George Le'Afa]]
Line 127: Line 105:
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Mike Homik]]
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Mike Homik]]
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Mark Overdevest]]
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Mark Overdevest]]
* {{flagicon|United States}} [[Sylvester Seay]]
* {{flagicon|United States}} [[Jerry Smith (basketball)|Jerry Smith]]
* {{flagicon|United States}} [[Jerry Smith (basketball)|Jerry Smith]]
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Ben Hill (basketball)|Ben Hill]]
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Ben Hill (basketball)|Ben Hill]]
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* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Ray Cameron]]
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Ray Cameron]]
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Puke Lenden]]
* {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Puke Lenden]]
}}


== Imports ==
== Imports ==
⚫
* 2000 - [[Adrian Boyd]], [[Darryl Johnson]]
⚫
* 2001 - [[Clifton Bush]]
⚫
* 2002 - [[DeWayne McCray]]
⚫
* 2003 - [[Iona Enosa]]
⚫
* 2004 - [[Geordie Cullen]], [[Mike Chappell]]
⚫
* 2005 - [[Greg Lewis (basketball)|Greg Lewis]], [[Kamtrail Horton]]
⚫
* 2006 - [[Graeme Dann]], [[Kitwana Rhymer]]
⚫
* 2007 - [[Kevin Smith (basketball)|Kevin Smith]], [[Jason Crowe (basketball)|Jason Crowe]]
⚫
* 2008 - [[Brian Whethers]], [[Jason Crowe (basketball)|Jason Crowe]]
⚫
* 2009 - [[Adam Ballinger]], [[Justin Bailey (basketball)|Justin Bailey]]
⚫
* 2010 - [[Tony Ronaldson]], [[Eric Devendorf]]/[[Carl Krauser]]/[[Rashad Tucker]]
⚫
* 2011 - [[Jerry Smith (basketball)|Jerry Smith]], [[Sylvester Seay]]/[[Jason Crowe (basketball)|Jason Crowe]]
⚫
* 2012 - no imports due to no team this season
* 2013 - [[Zack Atkinson]], [[Vernon Hamilton]]/[[Garrius Holloman]]
* 2013 - [[Zack Atkinson]], [[Vernon Hamilton]]/[[Garrius Holloman]]
* 2014 - [[Akeem Wright]], [[Corin Henry]]
⚫
* 2012 - (no imports due to no team this season)
⚫
* 2011 - [[Jerry Smith (basketball)|Jerry Smith]], [[Jason Crowe (basketball)|Jason Crowe]]
⚫
* 2010 - [[Eric Devendorf]]/[[Carl Krauser]]/[[Rashad Tucker]]
⚫
* 2009 - [[Adam Ballinger]], [[Justin Bailey (basketball)|Justin Bailey]]
⚫
* 2008 - [[Brian Whethers]], [[Jason Crowe (basketball)|Jason Crowe]]
⚫
* 2007 - [[Jason Crowe (basketball)|Jason Crowe]], [[Kevin Smith (basketball)|Kevin Smith]]
⚫
* 2006 - [[Graeme Dann]], [[Kitwana Rhymer]]
⚫
* 2005 - [[Greg Lewis (basketball)|Greg Lewis]], [[Kamtrail Horton]]
⚫
* 2004 - [[Geordie Cullen]], [[Mike Chappell]]
⚫
* 2003 - [[Iona Enosa]]
⚫
* 2002 - [[DeWayne McCray]]
⚫
* 2001 - [[Clifton Bush]]
⚫
* 2000 - [[Adrian Boyd]], [[Darryl Johnson]]


== Season results ==
== Season results ==
* 2000 - Lost semi-final to [[Nelson Giants]], 105-100, [http://www.basketball.org.nz/_r/uploads/2007/02/nel-v-waik-semi.pdf]
* 2000 - Lost semi-final to [[Nelson Giants]], 105-100<ref>[http://www.basketball.org.nz/competitions/nbl/nbl-2000/ 2000 | Basketball New Zealand]</ref>
* 2001 - '''Champions''', beat [[Wellington Saints]], 112-97, [http://www.basketball.org.nz/_r/uploads/2007/02/well-v-waik.htm]
* 2001 - '''Champions''', defeated [[Wellington Saints]], 112-97<ref>[http://www.basketball.org.nz/competitions/nbl/nbl-2001/ 2001 | Basketball New Zealand]</ref>
* 2002 - '''Champions''', beat [[Nelson Giants]], 85-83, [http://www.basketball.org.nz/_r/uploads/2007/02/waik-v-nel-final.htm]
* 2002 - '''Champions''', defeated Nelson Giants, 85-83<ref>[http://www.basketball.org.nz/competitions/nbl/nbl-2002/ 2002 | Basketball New Zealand]</ref>
* 2003 - lost final to [[Wellington Saints]], 97-88, [http://www.basketball.org.nz/_r/uploads/2007/02/titans-v-saints.htm]
* 2003 - lost final to Wellington Saints, 97-88<ref>[http://www.basketball.org.nz/competitions/nbl/nbl-2003/ 2003 | Basketball New Zealand]</ref>
* 2004 - 6th, record of 10 wins, 8 losses
* 2004 - 6th, record of 10 wins, 8 losses<ref>[http://www.basketball.org.nz/competitions/nbl/nbl-2004/ 2004 | Basketball New Zealand]</ref>
* 2005 - lost semi-final to [[Nelson Giants]], 77-65, [http://www.basketball.org.nz/_r/uploads/2007/02/giants-v-titans.htm]
* 2005 - lost semi-final to Nelson Giants, 77-65<ref>[http://www.basketball.org.nz/competitions/nbl/nbl-2005/ 2005 | Basketball New Zealand]</ref>
* 2006 - 9th, record of 4 wins, 14 losses
* 2006 - 9th, record of 4 wins, 14 losses<ref>[http://www.basketball.org.nz/competitions/nbl/nbl-2006/ 2006 | Basketball New Zealand]</ref>
* 2007 - lost semi-final to [[Nelson Giants]], 109-103, [http://www.basketball.org.nz/_r/uploads/2007/07/pistons-v-giants.htm]
* 2007 - lost semi-final to Nelson Giants, 109-103<ref>[http://www.basketball.org.nz/_r/uploads/2007/07/pistons-v-giants.htm Game Box Score – Giants vs Pistons]</ref>
* 2008 - '''Champions''', beat [[Wellington Saints]], 95-78, [http://www.basketball.org.nz/competitions/nbl/nbl-history/2008/], and, 84-79, [http://www.basketball.org.nz/_r/uploads/2008/06/saints-pistons.html]
* 2008 - '''Champions''', defeated Wellington Saints, 2-0
* 2009 - '''Champions''', defeated Nelson Giants, 2-0
* 2009 - '''Champions''', beat [[Nelson Giants]], 81-69, [http://www.basketball.org.nz/_r/uploads/2009/06/nbl-2009-077-nel-v-wai.html], and, 94-84, [http://www.basketball.org.nz/_r/uploads/2009/06/nbl-2009-078-wai-v-nel.html]
* 2010 - lost final to [[Wellington Saints]], 2-1
* 2010 - lost final to [[Wellington Saints]], 80-74, [http://www.basketball.org.nz/_r/uploads/2010/06/pistons-v-saints1.html], 69-98, [http://www.basketball.org.nz/_r/uploads/2010/06/saints-v-pistons-game-two.html], and, 79-82, [http://www.basketball.org.nz/_r/uploads/2010/06/saints-v-pistons-boxscore-game-three.html]
* 2011 - lost semi-final to [[Hawke's Bay Hawks]], 95-86, [http://www.basketball.org.nz/_r/uploads/2011/07/Pistons-v-Hawks-Box-Score.pdf]
* 2011 - lost semi-final to [[Hawke's Bay Hawks]], 95-86<ref>[http://www.basketball.org.nz/_r/uploads/2011/07/Pistons-v-Hawks-Box-Score.pdf Waikato Pistons 86 - 95 HBS Bank Hawks]</ref>
* 2012 - Did Not Compete
* 2012 - Did Not Compete
* 2013 - 8th, record of 2 wins, 14 losses
* 2013 - 8th, record of 2 wins, 14 losses
* 2014 - 6th, record of 8 wins, 10 losses


== References ==
== References ==
{{reflist}}
{{reflist|2}}


== External links ==
== External links ==

Revision as of 07:58, 26 November 2014

Waikato Pistons
Waikato Pistons logo
Leagues New Zealand NBL
Founded1987
HistoryWaikato Warriors (1991–2000)
Waikato Titans (2001–2005)
Waikato Pistons (2006–2011, 2013–2014)
ArenaHamilton Boys' High School, Hamilton
Claudelands Events Centre, Hamilton
LocationHamilton, New Zealand
Team colorsBlack, Yellow, Red, White
Championships4 (2001, 02, 08, 09)

The Waikato Pistons were a New Zealand professional basketball team that represented the Waikato Region in the New Zealand National Basketball League.

The Pistons did not compete in the 2012 NBL season after the Waikato Basketball Council decided to make community basketball its top priority.[1] In November 2012, it was announced that the Pistons would return to the NBL in 2013.[2][3] However, after just two seasons, the Pistons again pulled out of the NBL for the 2015 season due to financial considerations after the Waikato Basketball Council felt their resources were better placed on less expensive development operations.[4][5]

Last roster

Waikato Pistons roster
Players Coaches
Pos. No. Nat. Name Ht. Wt. Age
PG 6 New Zealand Lacey, Matt 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in)
SG 7 New Zealand Comer, James 1.90 m (6 ft 3 in)
SF 9 New Zealand King-Hawea, Dyson (DP) 2.00 m (6 ft 7 in)
G/F 11 Australia Carter, Zac 2.03 m (6 ft 8 in)
PG 12 United States Henry, Corin (I) 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in)
SG 13 New Zealand Noyer, Karl 1.94 m (6 ft 4 in)
F 14 New Zealand Talma, Alex 2.03 m (6 ft 8 in)
PF 15 New Zealand Barrow, Nick 2.03 m (6 ft 8 in)
G/F 16 United States Wright, Akeem (I) 2.00 m (6 ft 7 in)
F/C 20 New Zealand Salt, Jack 2.05 m (6 ft 9 in)
PF 43 New Zealand Frank, Casey 2.03 m (6 ft 8 in)
Head coach
Assistant coach(es)
  • New Zealand Zico Coronel
  • New Zealand Anthony Corban
Team manager
  • New Zealand Dave Murry
Legend
  • (C) Team captain
  • (DP) Development player
  • (TP) Training player
  • (I) Import
  • Injured Injured

History

The club made their first appearance in the NBL in 1987 and were called the Waikato Warriors from 1991 to 2000. In 2001, they were renamed the Titans before changing their name again in 2006 to the Pistons.

2000 to 2005

In 2000, the Warriors lost in the semi-final to the Nelson Giants 105-100 with import Darryl Johnson top scoring for the Warriors with 27 points along with 19 rebounds, Phil Jones of the Giants top scored for them with 25 points. In 2001, the newly named Titans enjoyed much success winning the NBL championship for the first time under new head coach Jeff Green. Clifton Bush top scored in this game with 26 points and 11 rebounds as they defeated the Wellington Saints. The Titans went on to win back-to-back championships in 2002 after defeating the Nelson Giants, 85-83. Brendon Pongia top scored in this game with 17. In 2003, the Pistons went for three in a row but lost in the final to Wellington 97-88 with the top scorer being Pero Cameron. The 2004 season saw a change in coaching with the Titans bringing in Tim McTamney as head coach. They finished sixth with a record of 10 wins and 8 losses. The following season was the best under McTamney with the Titans losing in the semi-final to the Nelson Giants, 77-65. The top scorer was Greg Lewis with 22 points.

2006 to 2009

The next year saw another coaching change with Murray McMahon stepping into the shoes of head coach for the newly named Pistons team. In March 2006, it was decided that the club would change their name to the Pistons from the Titans which they used from 2001 to 2005. This was primarily because Hamilton became the motorsport capital of New Zealand after gaining the rights to host the V8 Supercars and the New Zealand leg of the World Rally Championship. The 2006 season, however, saw the Pistons finish ninth with a dismal 4-14 record. The 2007 season ended with the Pistons losing the semi-final in overtime to the Nelson Giants 109-103 with the top scorer being Jason Crowe with 28. The 2008 season saw the Pistons once again bring the winning feeling back to Waikato as they won the championship over the Wellington Saints in a best-of-three series that the Pistons won 2-0. The top scorers in these games were Jason Crowe with 26 in the first game and Pero Cameron with 20 in the second game. The 2009 season saw another coaching change after the unexpected death of Murray McMahon. Breakers assistant coach Dean Vickerman filled the head coach vacancy and led the Pistons to their second straight title, defeating the Nelson Giants 2-0 in a best-of-three series. Top scorers were Adam Ballinger with 22 in the first game and Justin Bailey with 32 in the second game. The 2009 season saw the Waikato franchise win back-to-back championships for the second time in their history.

2010 season

In 2010, the Pistons made the finals again under Dean Vickerman despite a mid-season mishap. In April 2010, after an incident in a Napier bar, import Eric Devendorf was released by the club just hours after spending time in a Napier police station.[6] They went on to face a strong Wellington Saints team in the finals but lost the series 2-1. The top scorers in the games for the Pistons were Tom Abercrombie with 32 in the first game, Rashad Tucker with 18 in the second and Tom Abercrombie again in game three with 29.

2011 season

An exciting signing for the Pistons in 2011 was former Harbour Heat big man B. J. Anthony who was also a development player for the New Zealand Breakers in the Australian NBL. The first of the import signings for the Pistons was former Louisville star Jerry Smith who had recently played in the NBA D-League for the Springfield Armor where he averaged 13 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists per game. The second was Fresno State standout Sylvester Seay. In his final year at Fresno State, Seay averaged 15.3 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. However, he was later released by the club after not suiting coach Vickerman's style. Former import Jason Crowe subsequently stepped in to fill the Pistons' vacant import spot for the rest of the season. The Pistons also welcomed back swingman Thomas Abercrombie, big man Alex Pledger, live wire Ray Cameron, shooting guard Hayden Allen and solid sixth man Puke Lenden. Youngster Marco Alexander also joined the Pistons for 2011. Despite the promising squad, the Pistons were defeated in the semi-final, losing 95-86 to the Hawke's Bay Hawks who would eventually end up losing the final to a powerful Wellington Saints team.

2013 season

The Pistons returned to the NBL in 2013 after not participating in the 2012 season. Notable signings included the return of Marco Alexander and James Comer, former Pirates forward Nick Barrow and ex-Harbour Heat swingman, Ana Haku, as well as New Zealand Breakers point guard Tai Webster, the younger brother of Wellington Saints and New Zealand Breakers shooting guard, Corey Webster.[7] Their first import was former Clemson University standout Vernon Hamilton. While at Clemson he averaged 12.3 points, 3.4 assists and 3.1 rebounds per game. The second import for 2013 was ex-Harbour Heat centre, Zack Atkinson.[8] On 2 May 2013, the Pistons released Hamilton just two games into the season.[9] Then on 7 May, the Pistons signed import forward Garrius Holloman who had been recently released from the Manawatu Jets.[10]

2014 season

In November 2013, Pero Cameron was announced as the organisation's new head coach/player development manager.[11]

In January 2014, the Pistons announced the signing of New Zealand Breakers development player Jack Salt. They also announced the signing of Alex Talma and the re-signing of Nick Barrow.[12] On 5 February 2014, Australian Zac Carter signed with the Pistons for the 2014 season.[13] On 11 February 2014, Casey Frank, a former Wellington Saints championship player, signed with the Pistons for the 2014 season.[14]

On 20 February 2014, Thomas Abercrombie signed with the Pistons for the 2014 season, returning to the club after playing with them from 2009 to 2011.[15] On 31 March 2014, Abercrombie was released from his contract to allow him to sign in France.[16]

On 11 March 2014, the Pistons signed former Otago Nuggets import, Akeem Wright, for the 2014 season.[17] On 24 March 2014, the Pistons signed former Sydney Kings import, Corin Henry, for the 2014 season.[18]

Notable former players

2

Imports

Season results

  • 2000 - Lost semi-final to Nelson Giants, 105-100[19]
  • 2001 - Champions, defeated Wellington Saints, 112-97[20]
  • 2002 - Champions, defeated Nelson Giants, 85-83[21]
  • 2003 - lost final to Wellington Saints, 97-88[22]
  • 2004 - 6th, record of 10 wins, 8 losses[23]
  • 2005 - lost semi-final to Nelson Giants, 77-65[24]
  • 2006 - 9th, record of 4 wins, 14 losses[25]
  • 2007 - lost semi-final to Nelson Giants, 109-103[26]
  • 2008 - Champions, defeated Wellington Saints, 2-0
  • 2009 - Champions, defeated Nelson Giants, 2-0
  • 2010 - lost final to Wellington Saints, 2-1
  • 2011 - lost semi-final to Hawke's Bay Hawks, 95-86[27]
  • 2012 - Did Not Compete
  • 2013 - 8th, record of 2 wins, 14 losses
  • 2014 - 6th, record of 8 wins, 10 losses

References

  1. ^ Anderson, Ian (27 October 2011). "Waikato Pistons out of 2012 national league". Stuff.co.nz. Retrieved 30 November 2011.
  2. ^ Pistons return to NBL
  3. ^ Waikato Pistons back in the action
  4. ^ Pistons Out Of 2015 NBL
  5. ^ Waikato Pistons pull out of NBL competition
  6. ^ Eric Devendorf dumped by Waikato Pistons
  7. ^ Tai Webster's signing should get Pistons firing
  8. ^ Waikato nab big man Atkinson to bolster side
  9. ^ Hamilton wrong fit for Waikato Pistons
  10. ^ New import for Waikato Pistons
  11. ^ Cameron a man Pistons can look up to
  12. ^ Pistons Grab Salt
  13. ^ Pistons Add Carter
  14. ^ Casey Frank signs with the Waikato Pistons
  15. ^ Abercrombie Signs With Pistons
  16. ^ Abercrombie Signs in France
  17. ^ Pistons Signal Title Contention With Signing
  18. ^ Pistons Add ANBL All-Star To Loaded Roster
  19. ^ 2000 | Basketball New Zealand
  20. ^ 2001 | Basketball New Zealand
  21. ^ 2002 | Basketball New Zealand
  22. ^ 2003 | Basketball New Zealand
  23. ^ 2004 | Basketball New Zealand
  24. ^ 2005 | Basketball New Zealand
  25. ^ 2006 | Basketball New Zealand
  26. ^ Game Box Score – Giants vs Pistons
  27. ^ Waikato Pistons 86 - 95 HBS Bank Hawks
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