WITH the National Basketball League (NBL)1 North season wrapped up in both the men’s and women’s competitions, the league has announced the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award for each division. With plenty of talent across the league delivering eye-catching seasons, the league would have had a tough decision to make, but they ultimately settled on two stars who stood up when their sides needed a leader.

Taking out the men’s award was Logan Thunder guard Jeremy Kendle, who led his side to a semi finals appearance with outstanding play in all aspects of his game. Kendle finished the year averaging 21.73 points per game, 6.2 rebounds per game and 8.66 assists per game all the while shooting 47% from the field.

He consistently led his side in close matches and was a major reason for their promising finish on the ladder at the conclusion of the home-and-away season. A staple of consistency, Kendle had just one game with less than 15 points and scored over 20 points for the Thunder in 10 matches across the season.

Kendle’s strong play was also recognised by the committee selecting the NBL1 North Men’s All-Star Five team, with Kendle among the five players selected for the strongest individual seasons. The 33-year-old was reliable as ever for his side, and even in the semi-final upset loss to the Cairns Marlins, Kendle still gave it his all, finishing with 18 points, five rebounds and five assists in a commendable display.

Claiming the 2021 NBL1 North Women’s MVP award was Mackay Meteorettes forward Cayla George, who was among the leaders in plenty of key statistical categories. She was second in the league for points per game with 20.7, second in the league for rebounds per game with 16.6 per game and also displayed her ability to find open teammates, pouring in 5.8 assists per game. The Opal split her time between the NBL1 and her Australian commitments for the Olympic team, on which she averaged 13 points per game.

All of her outings resulted in double-doubles, and she passed 20 rebounds in a single match on two occasions. She always gave her all for her Meteorettes, and played a major role in driving the side to a semi-final berth against the Southern District Spartans.

Picture credit: Stephen Schulz Photography