On Sunday 11 May, at ³Ô¹Ï51±¬ÁÏÍøAPP’s 2024 Annual General Meeting, members from the basketball community celebrated some outstanding contributions of four remarkable individuals to the sport. The below awards, presented on behalf of the New Zealand Basketball Foundation and ³Ô¹Ï51±¬ÁÏÍøAPP, recognise the dedication and passion these members have shown towards basketball.
Murray McMahon Award – Marshall Seifert
The Murray McMahon Award, honours notable contributions to men’s basketball and the award in 2025 went to Marshall Seifert. Marshall’s journey in basketball began in the late 60s as a key player for the Otago men’s team, which won the New Zealand Zone Championship in 1968. Transitioning to coaching in the early 70s, he led the New Zealand Junior Men’s team and various Otago teams to numerous championships. Marshall also made significant contributions to the media as a TV and radio commentator, earning the 1993 Mobil Radio Award for Best Sports Presenter.
Sir Lance Cross Award – Alan Robson
The Sir Lance Cross Award recognizes exceptional service to basketball, and this year was awarded to Alan Robson. Alan’s basketball journey began in 1974, playing for Hillmorton High School. His talent was soon recognized, leading to selection in the inaugural Canterbury National League team. Despite an ankle injury, Alan’s focus shifted to club basketball, where he won numerous championships and served as Club President. His coaching career saw him lead Canterbury age group teams to national titles. Since the late 90s, Alan has dedicated his expertise to Special Olympics, coaching the Canterbury Special Olympics team to national and international success. Alan remains heavily involved in the Special Olympics in his current role of Chairperson of Special Olympics New Zealand.
Hall of Fame Induction – Micaela Cocks
Hall of Fame status is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to basketball. This year’s inductee, Micaela Cocks, is a 2008 Olympian and the most capped 2degrees Tall Fern of all time with 141 games. Micaela’s illustrious career includes appearances at the Commonwealth Games, winning silver and bronze medals, and a gold medal at the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup. She played for the University of Oregon, followed by a decade with the Townsville Fire, where she won three Australian WNBL Championships. Micaela returned to New Zealand to play for the Northern Kahu in the Tauihi League, earning All Star Five status in 2022.
Legend Recognition – Kirk Penney
Legends emerge from the Hall of Fame, and this year’s Legend, Kirk Penney, has had a stellar playing career. Kirk debuted for the Tall Blacks at 18 and went on to play 179 games, scoring over 2000 international points. He led the University of Wisconsin to the NCAA final four and became the second New Zealander to play in the NBA. Kirk’s achievements include being a two-time Olympian, a four-time World Championship player, and holding the record for the highest single-game scores by a Tall Black. After a successful pro career, Kirk returned to play for the Breakers, helping them win their first championship in 2011. Kirk’s legendary status was celebrated as he was promoted from Hall of Fame to Legend.
On behalf of ³Ô¹Ï51±¬ÁÏÍøAPP, congratulationsÌýto all four award recipients. You have our heartfelt thanks for your contribution to our wonderful sport.
