We hope you enjoy episode #23 of our Australian Basketball History series - an in-depth interview with Steve Lunardon … coached by no less than 6 legendary coaches, and a legend in his own right
In his professional career, Steve played nine seasons / 154 NBL games across four NBL teams including the Nunawading Spectres, Eastside Melbourne Spectres, Melbourne Tigers and Geelong Supercats.
Steve was born in Melbourne (VIC) and began playing basketball as a junior with the Sandringham basketball program. In 1981 he represented Victoria at the Australian under 16 championships and played a big part in his state winning the title for the fifth year in a row.
Steve made his NBL debut with the Nunawading Spectres at 19 years of age. He scored eight points in his first game. He played for the Nunawading Spectres (and later, the renamed team – the Eastside Melbourne Spectres) from 1986, to 1990 under legendary coaches Barry Barnes (who had been the Spectres head coach since they entered the NBL), and former Melbourne Tigers player, Brian Goorjian. Steves teammates at the Spectres included Ron Lemons, Warren Pink, Shane Froling, Darren Lucas, import Arne Duncan, import Ben Tower, Dean Uthoff, Rupert Sapwell and Kent Lockhart.
In 1991, Steve moved across to the Melbourne Tigers. Between 1991 and 1993, the Melbourne Tigers emerged as one of Australia’s most formidable basketball teams. Under the steady leadership of head coach Lindsay Gaze, the Tigers developed a disciplined and innovative style of play. In 1991, superstar Andrew Gaze dazzled with record-breaking scoring, becoming the first NBL player to surpass 1,000 points in a season. In 1992, the roster was strengthened by the addition of American import Lanard Copeland and versatile forward Dave Simmons. By 1993, the Tigers completed their core with dominant centre Mark Bradtke, creating a balanced team capable of both explosive offense and robust defence. This group of key players – Andrew Gaze, Lanard Copeland, Dave Simmons, and Mark Bradtke – combined their talents to secure the team’s first NBL championship. Their unwavering teamwork and tactical brilliance not only captivated fans but also redefined success in the NBL. Steve reminisces about his time and amazing experiences with the Tigers, the lessons he learned from Lindsay Gaze.
Steve then recalls his 1994 move to the Geelong Supercats. The Supercats’ 1994 campaign, characterized by their relentless work ethic and strong team chemistry, cemented their reputation as a gritty outfit capable of challenging the league’s elite. Their legacy in 1994 remains notable chapter in NBL history.
Steve shares his thoughts and visions on master’s basketball in Australia.
“Shot in the arse with a rainbow’, Steve spends all day on a basketball court, with multiple coaching and teaching roles. He is undoubtedly, the nicest bloke in basketball.
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