Julie Nykiel’s record of shooting 53 points, set in a WNBL game in 1982, was achieved without the benefit of a three-point line.
As a formidable centre, Julie Nykiel used her lightning speed over the first five metres to devastating effect, especially but not only, against taller international centres.
Her powerful rebounding, efficiency, finishing abilities, and high shooting percentage within the key were striking assets to teams at every level.
Julie Nykiel played for the Opals between 1978 and 1990, competing at two Olympic Games; 1984 and 1988. Nykiel also represented Australia at three FIBA World Basketball Championships – 1979, 1983 and 1987.
In two triumphant years of outstanding dominance, Julie Nykiel was the Women’s National Basketball League’s Most Valuable Player in 1984 and 1988.
Correspondingly, they were also the Olympic years in which Nykiel would play major roles in the rise of the Opals on the world stage.
Internationally, the strong European centres, while taller, could not match her foot speed.
Her single-game record of an amazing 53 points, set in 1982, stood for over 20 years and was achieved without the benefit of a three-point line.
In a remarkable achievement, Nykiel led the WNBL in points scored in five seasons: 1981, 1983, 1984, 1985 & 1988. Many of her points were accumulated through her fast break abilities.
A charming and popular figure, Julie was named in the WNBL’s 25th Anniversary Team in 2004, the year she also received a Life Membership of the WNBL.
Julie Nykiel was also inducted into the Australian Basketball Hall of Fame as well as the SA Sports Hall of Fame.
Furthermore, she successfully transferred her shooting and positioning skills to the SA Premier Netball League, playing a dominating role at goal shooter in winning championship teams with both Sabres and Contax.
