The NBA continuously gains popularity as more Aussies make their way across the states in hopes of getting drafted. The most recent draftee is Benigo native Dyson Daniels, and preceding him was Josh Giddey. Both stars love the AFL, and most footy fans even have an NBA team they support.
The NBA's history shares a different story as the league learns the ins and outs of the sports business, and only five teams have won more than three championships in its history. It is exceptionally skewed in comparison to the VFL/AFL premiership storyline.
But if you're unsure of which team to support, or are just beginning to take an interest in the NBA, here is part two of our ultimate guide to knowing which NBA team you should support based on your AFL following.
1. Hawthorn Hawks
Chicago Bulls
The team that would be wishing to live in the past when they won their three premierships in 2013, 2014 and 2015. It is the same feeling that Chicago Bulls fans have with their Micheal Jordan era.
Micheal Jordan is arguably the greatest player of all time in the NBA. Yes, he wasn't the only reason they were able to create so much success but the season without him proved a challenge for the Bulls franchise.
While he may not have been on the field, Alastair Clarkson is Hawthorn's Micheal Jordan. His era from 2005-2021 brought success to the club and managed to create a dynasty as arguably this century's greatest side.
Hawthorn perhaps has the 'team' approach to their wins as they don't have the best player of all time, but they have some greats of the game that have blessed the club with their talent. Jason Dunstall, Leigh Matthews, Micheal Tuck and Luke Hodge are a few of the very decorated club players to have pulled on brown and gold.
Derrick Rose for the Bulls was the next best thing to happen to Chicago after Micheal Jordan. He was the youngest player to win the MVP in the 2010-2011 season; however, they lost to LeBron James and Miami Heat in the 2011 Eastern Conference Finals. That was a lost opportunity for the franchise as it was the closest they were to winning a championship with Rose.
Hawthorn's greatness before Clarkson came in the '80s. They made the Grand Final seven years in a row and won four times. Like the Bulls, their success won over fans from over the fence and brought even more eyes to the game.
Watching a team reach the top time after time is unique and keeps the fans in awe.
The Bulls and Hawks are going through a rougher patch and have a chance to be back to their full strength in no time. The Hawks' succession plan and the Bulls' up-and-coming talent are sure to have them back in contention in no time.
If you want a team with a rich, successful history and a bright future, the Hawks and Bulls will do it for you.
