Steve Carfino brings one of Australian basketball’s most recognisable playing careers to the Reebok AABL as Head Coach of the NSW Commandos. Originally from the United States, Carfino played college basketball at the University of Iowa before being selected by the Boston Celtics in the 1984 NBA Draft. He later moved to Australia, joining the Hobart Devils and quickly establishing himself as one of the NBL’s leading guards.

Carfino earned four consecutive All-NBL selections from 1986 to 1989 and finished runner-up in the 1986 NBL MVP voting. In 1988, he became part of the Sydney Kings’ inaugural roster, emerging as one of the early faces of the franchise and earning the nickname “Mr Magic”. His contribution to Australian basketball was recognised with induction into the Australian Basketball Hall of Fame in 2004. Since retiring from professional basketball, Carfino has remained closely connected to the game through coaching, commentary and broader involvement across the Australian basketball landscape.

Known for his basketball knowledge, professional experience and ability to communicate the game, Carfino gives AABL athletes direct access to a coach who has competed at the highest levels of Australian basketball and understands what it takes to perform in a professional environment.