Illawarra Hawks veteran Todd Blanchfield has reached a significant career milestone, playing his 450th NBL game last Sunday, though the occasion was bittersweet following his team's defeat against the Sydney Kings.
Emotional journey from teenage debut to veteran status
The 34-year-old small forward vividly remembers beginning his first NBL pre-season as a 17-year-old, recalling advice from former Australian basketball player Cam Tovey. "He told me to make the most of the pre-season, adding 'once it starts, you blink and it's gone'", Blanchfield told ACM.
Reflecting on the accuracy of that prediction, Blanchfield said "He was 100 per cent right, here we are in year 17 and 450 games later." The basketball veteran expressed deep gratitude for his lengthy career, acknowledging the role luck has played in avoiding serious injuries.
Championship glory and career highlights
Despite multiple grand final appearances throughout his career, Blanchfield had to wait until his 16th NBL season and second stint with Illawarra to claim his first championship. The Hawks' championship-winning NBL25 season stands as his ultimate career achievement.
"Obviously the championship last year was the ultimate," Blanchfield shared. "The goal of every team at the start of the year is to win a championship, and we got that done last year."
Beyond team success, Blanchfield cherishes his international experience and the relationships built over nearly two decades in professional basketball. Representing Australia and scoring his first bucket in Townsville remain cherished memories, alongside lifelong friendships with fellow players like Mitch Norton and Jason Cadee.
Looking ahead amid current challenges
Currently in the first year of a three-year deal with the Hawks, Blanchfield has no immediate retirement plans. "I'd love to be able to play as long as I possibly can," he stated, noting basketball's significance to his family and his son's growing passion for the sport.
The immediate focus, however, is addressing the Hawks' inconsistent performance this season. Following their 98-71 loss to the Sydney Kings that dropped their record to 4-7, Blanchfield identified the team's inconsistency as their primary challenge.
"We've got so much championship calibre in this room," Blanchfield emphasized. "But we've gotta figure it out pretty quick as to how we come up with wins night in, night out, because right now, our inconsistency is hurting us."
The veteran forward remains optimistic about the team's potential, noting their ability to compete with any team in the league when performing at their best. With a quick turnaround before facing the Adelaide 36ers, Blanchfield and the Hawks have an immediate opportunity to get their championship defence back on track.
