Geraldton Buccaneers captain Aaron Ralph reflects on his record-breaking three-point crown

Just a couple of weeks ago, Geraldton Buccaneers captain Aaron Ralph took over the throne as the NBL1 West’s all-time leading three-point scorer after overtaking Ryan Neill’s record of 1097.

Ralph surpassed Neill’s benchmark in the Buccs’ round nine clash against Lakeside Lightning. With only five threes needed going into that game, he secured the crown as the king beyond the arc in the first half.

Speaking to the Geraldton Guardian this week, Ralph, the consummate team man, said his achievement was not something he was focusing on as the Buccs continue their 2025 charge.

“Obviously, it’s a pretty cool accolade to have, but I think it’s something I’ll probably reflect on a bit later on, once the career is over,” he said.

“I have played with some pretty great players, so it has made it a really enjoyable journey.”

It has been quite the journey for the one-club player, with the 36 year-old in his fifth year as captain.

Making his Buccs debut in 2006 at the age of 16, the star forward soon established himself as a more than capable shooter from beyond the arc, garnering more attention from defenders across the league.

During his time playing for the Buccs, Ralph has been a part of two of the team’s three championships in 2019 and 2023, as well as playing in four grand finals and securing minor premierships in four seasons. He led the team as captain during the 2023 premiership season.

Ralph said the captaincy was bigger than just him.

“It is pretty special to lead the boys out but there were some great captains before me that set a great example,” Ralph said.

“Being captain is certainly a privilege, but I have some pretty great teammates that help me out and lead in their own right.”

Teammate and Buccs big man Liam Hunt said Ralph’s leadership was invaluable and was one who could be heavily relied on in big moments.

“He (Ralph) has hit multiple big shots in my career to date,” Hunt said.

“He hit the sealer in 2019 and then in 2023 hit a huge shot to put us up for the first time in the game at a pretty critical stage.

“But above that he is just a great guy and a great leader, he just knows when players need a bit of extra support and he is the first person to give you a pump up if needed.

“I don’t see his record ever being beaten to be honest.”

Ralph, now sitting on 480 games for the Buccs, is gearing up for their clash at home against Mandurah Magic on Saturday night, June 14.