 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (December 2009) |
| Winnipeg Thunder | |
|---|---|
| Leagues | World Basketball League (1992) North American Basketball Association (1992 Playoff series) National Basketball League (1993–1994) |
| Founded | 1992 |
| History | Winnipeg Thunder 1992–1994 |
| Arena | Winnipeg Arena |
| Capacity | 12,393 |
| Location | Winnipeg, Manitoba |
| Team colours | Black, teal, white, silver |
| General manager | Sam Katz |
| Head coach | Tom Nissalke |
| Ownership | Sam Katz (Majority) John Loewen, Vic Pruden, Hersh Wolch, David Asper (Minority) |
| Championships | 0 |
| Division titles | 0 |
The Winnipeg Thunder was a professional basketball franchise based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, from 1992 to 1994. The Thunder played its inaugural season in the World Basketball League, which folded before the schedule ended. The club then joined the nascent National Basketball League, where it played for the 1993 and 1994 seasons.[1]
The Thunder enjoyed considerable public and corporate support at the outset, which later dwindled due in part to league instability and increased competition in the local minor-league sports market, following the establishment of the Winnipeg Goldeyes baseball club. The club's financial backers included Sam Katz, John Loewen, Vic Pruden, Hersh Wolch and David Asper.[2]
The Thunder played its home games at the Winnipeg Arena. It would eventually be succeeded by the Winnipeg Cyclone, which represented the city in the International Basketball Association from 1995 to 2001.
- ^ NBL Statistics
- ^ Taylor, Scott (11 January 1992). "Hopeful hoop officials lining up coach". Winnipeg Free Press. p. G57.