NICKNAME/S: The Magician

BIO: Robert Paul Rose was born in Rochester, New York (USA) and played the majority of his career in the NBL, where he won a championship with the South East Melbourne Magic in 1992 and was a two-time NBL Most Valuable Player in 1993 and 2001.

Rose was nicknamed “Australia’s Michael Jordan” due to his clutch shooting and defensive abilities.

Member of NBL 25th Anniversary Team (named 2003)

NBL EXPERIENCE

Robert Rose made his NBL debut with the South East Melbourne Magic at 26 years of age. He scored 34 points in his first game.

At the end of 1991, the South Melbourne Saints were in financial crisis and unable to continue operations. In a landmark move, they merged with cross-town rivals the Eastside Melbourne Spectres to form a new NBL franchise: the South East Melbourne Magic. The Spectres had come within one game of a championship the previous season, so head coach Brian Goorjian was appointed to lead the new entity. Of the Saints’ playing group, only two players were retained—Andrew Parkinson and Andrej Lemanis. Both joined a core group of Spectres players that included Bruce Bolden, Tony Ronaldson, Darren Lucas, Scott Ninnis, and Darren Perry.

To finalise the roster, import forward Milt Newton and centre John Dorge (via Geelong) rounded out a well-balanced and physical lineup. With a reputation for elite defence and a deep rotation, the Magic quickly earned media attention, with their inaugural campaign famously dubbed “One Magic Year.” The team started strong, winning six of their first seven games, but despite Newton’s early contributions (15.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.6 steals), Goorjian felt a change was needed. After seven games, Newton was released and replaced by former LA Clippers guard Robert Rose.

Rose’s arrival proved transformative. A versatile guard with scoring touch, court vision, and defensive grit, Rose immediately elevated the Magic’s tempo and execution. From that point forward, the Magic rarely missed a beat—finishing the regular season with a 20–4 record and a perfect 12–0 mark at home. Rose averaged 19.8 points, 8.4 rebounds, 5.4 assists, and 2.3 steals across 23 games, providing a steadying presence at both ends of the court. His leadership and late-game composure were instrumental in the team’s success, and Goorjian was named NBL Coach of the Year as the Magic entered the playoffs as the No.1 seed.

🏀 THROWBACK THURSDAY 💫

Did you believe in Magic? How could you not with this old tune! Before the days of @SEMelbPhoenix we had the South East Melbourne Magic. Do you remember how many NBL Championships Magic had to their name? Read more – https://t.co/OezFZFpFDS #HoopsAtHome pic.twitter.com/mQfmy7kiG4— Basketball Victoria (@Basketball_Vic) April 16, 2020

In the playoffs, the Magic made short work of both the Canberra Cannons and North Melbourne Giants, setting up a Grand Final series against their crosstown rival, the Melbourne Tigers (15–9), who had finished third on the ladder behind the brilliance of Andrew Gaze (33.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, 6.3 assists) and explosive import Lanard Copeland (28.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.0 assists).

Game one was a major setback for the Magic. Starting point guard Darren Perry suffered a torn ACL 11 minutes into the match and was ruled out for the rest of the series and the next nine months. The Tigers capitalised on the disruption, with Copeland (34 points, 2 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals and 3 blocks) and Gaze (26 points) leading Melbourne to a dominant 116–98 victory. Rose finished with 10 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 7 turnovers in 48 minutes—shouldering the full-time playmaking duties in a disrupted performance.

In game two, the Magic backcourt regrouped. Darren Lucas delivered a season-high 19 points while Scott Ninnis clamped down on Copeland, holding him to 14 points on 6-of-19 shooting. Rose controlled the offence with 20 points on 10-of-17 shooting, 11 rebounds, 6 assists and 3 steals in 44 minutes of action. Bruce Bolden was equally dominant, finishing with 22 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 steals and 4 blocks as South East Melbourne cruised to a 115–93 win to tie the series at 1–1.

The deciding game was a tense, defensive battle. Melbourne struggled to generate clean looks, with Gaze held to 18 points on 5-of-19 shooting and Copeland kept below his average with 24 points. Rose delivered under pressure, finishing with 26 points, 10 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 steals and 2 blocks in 45 minutes. Bolden added 21 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal and 3 blocks to cap off his outstanding series. The Magic ground out a 95–88 win to claim the NBL Championship in their inaugural season.

Bruce Bolden, who delivered 21 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal and 3 blocks in game three was awarded the NBL Finals MVP award by NBA Commissioner David Stern who was visiting Australia at the time.

1993
Fresh off their inaugural NBL championship in 1992, expectations were high for the South East Melbourne Magic heading into their second season. Coach Brian Goorjian retained most of the championship-winning core, with the only major changes being the departure of Scott Ninnis (to Adelaide) and the additions of David Graham (via North Melbourne) and Simon Kerle (via Brisbane).

The Magic began the season with two key omissions—league-leading shot blocker John Dorge missed the first 16 games due to injury, while starting point guard Darren Perry, still recovering from the ACL tear he suffered in the previous year’s Grand Final, didn’t return until Round 10 and spent the remainder of the season playing below full fitness.

Opening night saw Robert Rose fill the stat sheet, recording 16 points, 10 assists, 8 rebounds, 6 steals, and 5 blocks in a win over Canberra (106–86). Rose went on to deliver one of the all-time great seasons in his first full year with the Magic, coming the closest anyone had come at the time to averaging a triple-double across a season.

Robert Rose (18.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, 8.5 assists, 3.0 steals, and 1.2 blocks) led the league in steals, was named to the All-NBL First Team, and was the clear choice for NBL MVP.

Alongside Rose’s brilliance, Bruce Bolden (21.6 points, 12.6 rebounds, 1.9 steals), the continued rise of Tony Ronaldson (20.2 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.1 steals), and the perimeter hustle of Darren Lucas (14.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.3 steals) helped power the Magic to a second-place finish (20–6), including a dominant 12–1 home record at Melbourne Park.

In the quarter-finals, the Magic swept the Adelaide 36ers in two straight games.

South East Melbourne eliminated the seventh-placed Adelaide 36ers in two straight games during the quarterfinals, with Robert Rose continuing to dictate tempo and pace to guide the Magic into a semi-final rematch against their 1992 Grand Final opponents—the Melbourne Tigers. The highly anticipated showdown featured Melbourne’s marquee signing Mark Bradtke, who had shifted from Adelaide in the off-season and wasted no time making an impact.

Game 1 of the semi-final series was a rare off night for Rose. Despite playing all 48 minutes, he shot just 4-of-16 from the field, finishing with 10 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 blocks in an 89–72 loss. The Magic struggled offensively, shooting just 34% from the field, while Bradtke dominated the paint with 28 points and 15 rebounds. Andrew Gaze added 21 points and 9 boards as the Tigers seized the early advantage in the series.

In Game 2, Rose bounced back with one of his finest playoff performances. Again playing the full 48 minutes, he posted 25 points on 8-of-15 shooting, with 8 rebounds, 7 assists, and 3 steals. He went 8-of-9 from the free-throw line and attacked the rim relentlessly, keeping the Magic within striking distance. With support from Lucas (19 points) and Bolden (14 points, 12 rebounds), Rose nearly willed South East Melbourne to victory—but the Tigers held on for a 108–106 win to end the Magic’s season in straight sets.

ADELAIDE 36ERS
1994
In 1994, Rose averaged 22.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.6 assists as the 36ers finished with a record of 18-8 and in second place during the regular season.

1995
In 1995 Rose averaged 26.8 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.3 assists as the 36ers finished with a record of 17-9 and in sixth place during the regular season.

CANBERRA CANNONS
1996
1996
The 1996 season saw Rose average 27.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 5.3 assists and play a key role in helping the Cannons to a fourth place finish in the regular season with a 16-10 record.

1997
During the 1997 season Rose averaged 23 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.9 assists and helped the Cannons finish with a record of 15-15 and end the regular season in fifth place.

1998
During the 1998 season, Rose averaged 19.7 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 6.4 assists and was a part of the Cannons squad which finished in a seventh place with a record of 14-16.

Robert Rose had played three spectacular seasons in Canberra and was selected to the All NBL First Team in 1996 and 1997. The Cannons didn’t see any postseason success but Rose became a hot commodity again and when his contract ran out with Canberra he was quickly lured to the Townsville Crocodiles.

TOWNSVILLE CROCODILES
1998/99
Following a trademark dispute with the NBA’s Phoenix Suns, Townsville retired the “Suns” moniker and re-emerged as the “Crocodiles,” a North Queensland identity that also mirrored the banner carried by Australia’s under-22 “Crocodiles” in their 1997 FIBA gold. With the rebrand came a reset: inaugural coach Mark Bragg departed after six seasons and assistant Ian Stacker arrived from South East Melbourne to lead the rebuild. Sam Mackinnon followed Stacker north—straining ties with Stacker’s mentor Brian Goorjian—and immediately became the franchise pillar. Only four holdovers returned (Simon Kerle, Brad Davidson, David Pennisi, Jason Cameron) as Stacker rebuilt around headline signings Robert Rose (via Canberra), Andrew Goodwin (via North Melbourne) and James Harper (via South Florida), with big man Michael Pennisi returning to the team after a stint overseas.

Townsville’s first night as the Crocodiles delivered a 91–84 win over Brisbane. Robert Rose (16 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists) was active at both ends, while Sam Mackinnon (18 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists) led the scoring alongside David Pennisi (18 points, 5 rebounds), who delivered a career-high, and James Harper (15 points, 12 rebounds), as the Crocs outlasted Steve Woodberry’s 31-point surge.

A five-game skid followed—Wollongong (86–99), Adelaide (89–94), Newcastle (96–102), Canberra (94–99), and Melbourne (87–102)—before Townsville reset at home by beating Wollongong (93–80). Mackinnon (26 points, 14 rebounds, 7 assists) produced his season-best line, Rose (20 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists) kept the offense humming, Kerle (21 points, 7-of-8 FT) added punch, and Goodwin (13 points, 8 rebounds) controlled the glass, while the Hawks were led by Clayton Ritter (22 points).

Momentum carried into the Crocs’ most explosive night of the year—a 120-point December win over Canberra. Kerle (33 points, 5 assists) headlined; Goodwin (19 points, 5 rebounds) and Harper (19 points, 13 rebounds) controlled the interior; and Rose (17 points, 8 assists, 5 rebounds) set the tempo as Townsville ran the Cannons off the floor.

Home form became a hallmark—highlighted by a 116–68 demolition of Sydney and a 90–89 upset of reigning champion Melbourne—though late losses to Sydney (101–119) and Adelaide (92–107) left Townsville 12–14 and seventh, just outside the playoff cut.

Robert Rose was the heartbeat across the season (21.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, 5.8 assists, 1.8 steals), logging a league-high 47 minutes per game and earning All-NBL Second Team honours. His game of the season came in a 97–105 loss to Brisbane, where he poured in 33 points with six threes and 11 rebounds. Other big nights included another 33-point, six-three performance at Newcastle, and a near-quadruple-double against the Giants (25 points, 10 rebounds, 12 assists, 9 steals). Rose also stacked multiple 12-assist outings—against Melbourne and the Giants—while steering Townsville’s offence all year.

Around him, Mackinnon (16.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 2.0 steals, 1.0 blocks) delivered a breakout season; Goodwin (14.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.3 steals) provided a sturdy interior presence; and Kerle (13.4 points, 2.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists), whose numbers dipped with the influx of talent, remained deadly from the perimeter in bursts. The Pennisi brothers—David (7.0 points, 3.6 rebounds) and Michael (2.3 points, 2.1 rebounds)—rounded out a solid rotation that, without the slow start and late-season errors, likely would have reached the club’s first taste of playoff basketball.

1999/00
Townsville’s second year under Ian Stacker saw a major overhaul that left Brad Davidson and David Pennisi as the only holdovers from Townsville’s ‘Suns’ era just 18 months earlier. Veterans Simon Kerle and Jason Cameron (both to Brisbane) moved on alongside big man Michael Pennisi (to Philippines) and import James Harper. The core of Robert Rose, Sam Mackinnon and Andrew Goodwin returned, with Stacker adding Ben Knight (via Sydney) and Mike Kelly (via Victoria), both of whom had played for/with Stacker and Mackinnon at South East Melbourne, plus Pat Reidy (via Newcastle) to provide a deeper bench and more balanced offensive group.

Rose (29 points, 14 rebounds, 4 assists) was effective in the opener, living at the stripe (14-of-15 FT), but Townsville fell 95–106 on the road to the Victoria Titans, powered by Jason Smith (29 points) and Darryl McDonald (19 points, 8 assists).

A week later Townsville snapped back by beating Wollongong 99–88, thanks to a near triple-double from Rose (17 points, 13 assists, 8 rebounds, 3 steals). Andrew Goodwin’s interior finishing complemented the ball movement, while the Hawks were paced by CJ Bruton’s perimeter shot-making.

This ignited a five-game winning streak, which delivered wins against Perth (123–81), Sydney (98–88), Cairns (103–75) and Adelaide (131–127). The shootout over Adelaide saw Rose (17 points, 7 assists, 5 steals, 1 block) log 50 minutes, alongside a lights-out Andrew Goodwin (40 points, 15 rebounds) who exploded for his season high, and Kelly bombing away (24 points, 6-of-8 3PT).

By early December the Crocodiles had slipped to 4–6, before resetting with a crisp 108–90 over Wollongong—Mackinnon delivered a triple-double masterclass (22 points, 13 assists, 11 rebounds), Brad Davidson chipped in timely shot-making (19 points), and Rose added an all-court line (14 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals), while the Hawks leaned on CJ Bruton’s 24 to keep touch.

To close out the calendar year, Rose (14 points, 10 rebounds, 11 assists, 4 steals) delivered a triple-double in a 103–78 thumping of Brisbane. Mackinnon (22 points) led the team in scoring.

The Crocodiles then ripped off a seven-game winning streak and finished with the best record in franchise history, a club-record 22–6 (11–3 home, 11–3 away), earning Stacker NBL Coach of the Year and a first-round bye after placing second on the ladder. Andrew Goodwin (18.0 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.4 steals) developed into the club’s leading scorer, captured NBL Most Improved Player and earned All-NBL Second Team honours. Mackinnon (17.3 points, 8.6 rebounds, 4.9 assists, 2.0 steals, 1.1 blocks) made the All-NBL First Team and, together with Rose (17.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, 6.6 assists, 1.8 steals), was a co-winner of the club’s MVP award.

Other key contributors included Kelly (16.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, 3.6 assists), who finished as the league’s top three-point shooter (43.9%), Reidy (14.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.3 assists) and Knight (8.5 points, 4.4 rebounds), who earned Sixth Man of the Year, as the Crocs’ identity—pace, length, shooting and unselfish playmaking—hardened into a top-tier profile.

In the semi-finals the Crocs faced Perth. Game 1 in Perth slipped 101–104 despite big nights from Mike Kelly (29 points) and Mackinnon (16 points, 13 rebounds, 10 assists), as Ricky Grace (24 points, 6 assists) and Marcus Timmons (20 points) edged the Wildcats ahead. Rose (14 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists) also provided a solid effort in the contest.

Game 2 at the Furnace levelled the series 101–78, with Rose (21 points, 11 rebounds, 9 assists) a whisker off another triple-double and Mackinnon (23 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 steals) plus Reidy (22 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists) filling the stat sheet.

Game 3 tilted back Perth’s way, 104–84, though Rose (33 points, 8 assists, 4 steals) equalled his season-high scoring tally. The Wildcats’ core closed it out—Grace (21 points, 11 assists), Anthony Stewart (21 points), Paul Rogers (20 points, 12 rebounds) and Andrew Vlahov (15 points, 17 rebounds)—to end Townsville’s run one step short of the Grand Final.

2000/01
Ian Stacker entered 2000/01 with the same nucleus that had carried Townsville to its maiden playoff berth, retaining Robert Rose, Sam MacKinnon, Pat Reidy, Mike Kelly, Andrew Goodwin, Brad Davidson, Peter Crawford and David Pennisi, with Ben Knight the only notable exit (to Cairns) and import Dujuan Wiley the lone recruit to fill the frontcourt slot.

Townsville launched the campaign by thumping Queensland rivals Cairns at The Swamp (120–85), with Robert Rose (13 points, 8 rebounds, 9 assists) running the show across 40 minutes as the Crocs signalled their intent from the jump.

The early surge continued to 4–1 before a rough patch—road defeats at Adelaide (105–121) and Perth (108–121), the latter featuring a Rose triple-double (22 points, 11 rebounds, 12 assists), plus a two-game stumble against Victoria—left the ledger at 5–4.

Soon after, severe bone bruising ended Sam MacKinnon’s year at 16 games despite averages of (17.4 points, 9.8 rebounds, 5.1 assists, 1.5 steals, 1.1 blocks).

In the fallout Townsville released the underperforming Wiley (7.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.9 blocks) and, in February, brought in David Hinton (9.8 points, 6.0 rebounds).

Hinton’s mid-season inclusion preceded an eleven-game tear, headlined by a record-flirting 126–63 dismantling of Brisbane in Round 22, where Goodwin (22 points, 8 rebounds, 3 steals) dominated in just 20 minutes, Robert Rose (18 points, 14 rebounds, 10 assists) notched another triple-double, and Kelly (8 points, 9 assists and 8 rebounds) came close to recorded one himself.

Less than 24 hours later Townsville ground out a 93–88 away win at Wollongong as Robert Rose (40 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists) produced his season-high scoring night to cap the back-to-back.

The Crocodiles ended the season with back to back wins over the Kings, the first a triller in Sydney (126–123), before doubling down with a statement home win (138–107), allowing them to close the season at 22–6, the best mark in club history to that point and equal-best in the league, officially second on percentage to the Victoria Titans and carrying that eleven-game momentum into the postseason.

With MacKinnon sidelined, Rose (22.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.6 blocks) shifted gears again, finishing fourth league-wide in both scoring and assists and fifth in free-throw percentage to secure All-NBL First Team honours and the NBL Most Valuable Player award.

Reidy (17.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists) provided constant secondary scoring, while Kelly (16.6 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 1.3 steals) landed top-five in three-point percentage and Andrew Goodwin (16.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, 1.0 steals) anchored the interior across the full year.

Townsville’s playoff run delivered Qualifying Finals series against Sydney, where the Kings claimed game one (127–109) despite a solid showing from Rose (20 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists).

Back in Townsville two nights later, the Crocs levelled 1–1 with a 121–113 victory built on the reliable trio of Reidy (25 points), Kelly (18 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists) and Rose (16 points, 16 rebounds, 5 assists).

The decider at The Swamp saw Townsville book a ticket to the semifinals after defeating the Kings (122–114). Rose (32 points, 9 rebounds, 8 assists), Goodwin (20 points and 10 rebounds) and Davidson (15 points) leading the Crocs, while Matthew Nielsen (28 points and 11 rebounds) kept Sydney in the game.

The Semi-Finals tipped in Melbourne and went to the Titans 106–97 despite a late Crocs run, with Rose (26 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists) and Reidy (19 points) countered by Tony Ronaldson (22 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists) and Darryl McDonald (20 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists).

Returning to The Swamp, Townsville squared the series 98–82 by clamping down defensively and owning the paint, riding Goodwin (24 points, 10 rebounds) and Robert Rose (19 points, 11 rebounds, 8 assists) while holding Victoria to 38% shooting.

Two nights later the Crocs punched their first Grand Final ticket 101–97, with Goodwin (23 points, 4 rebounds) and Robert Rose (20 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists) central again as Mark Dickel’s 33 points kept the Titans within sight until the buzzer.

The Grand Final opened in Wollongong and slipped 104–101, Rose (26 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists) battling second-half foul trouble even as Goodwin delivered a season-best 29 points and 8 rebounds on 13-of-23, with Davidson adding 18 points (4-of-5 3PT) and Hawks duo Melvin Thomas (24 points, 14 rebounds) and Mat Campbell (19 points) leading the hosts.

Townsville’s answer in Game Two at The Swamp was emphatic, 114–97, featuring a Robert Rose triple-double (16 points, 11 rebounds, 11 assists), Goodwin (22 points, 13 rebounds, 2 steals), Kelly (21 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists) and Davidson’s 13 points on 3-of-4 from deep, offsetting Damon Lowery (25 points, 4-of-6 3PT) and Charles Thomas (20 points).

Inside 24 hours the decider edged Wollongong 97–94 despite a towering Rose line (30 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists, 2 steals in 46:59) and strong support from Kelly (21 points, 7 rebounds) and Goodwin (22 points, 10 rebounds, 2 steals), as Charles Thomas (23 points) and Glen Saville (18 points, 12 rebounds, 2 steals) sealed the club’s first championship—also the first NBL title won by a team from NSW.

Across the season Robert Rose stacked four triple-doubles, which at the time set the single-season record and now ranks second-most in league history, surpassed only by Rashad Tucker’s six achieved three years later.

advancing on their semi finals appearance in 2000 season to reach the grand final the season after. Rose brilliance was acknowledged by the league as he collected his second league MVP award in 2000 at 35 years of age. Rose he averaged 22 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists and 1 steal per game and led the Crocodiles to a first place finish in the regular season behind a record of 27 wins, 10 losses.

They would matchup against the Wollongong Hawks in that year’s Grand Final series, the first time either team had made a grand final appearance. the Crocodiles ultimately were defeated by the Wollongong Hawks by the narrowest of margins, a four points Hawks victory in the deciding game three closing the door on Rose and Townsville’s championship opportunity.

Little Shane with the 𝗕𝗜𝗚 three, but then Robert Rose does this 🙄

Is this the greatest finish to a NBL game of all-time? 🤭 pic.twitter.com/pSKDF28JPK— NBL (@NBL) June 17, 2023

2001/02
The departure of star Sam Mackinnon (to West Sydney) forced Townsville to retool their roster. While Robert Rose, Andrew Goodwin, Pat Reidy, Mike Kelly, Peter Crawford and Brad Davidson all returned after reaching the Grand Final, Ian Stacker added local Andrew Rice and former NBA-calibre forward Ray Owes—who had previously played under Stacker at Geelong in 1996—to replenish depth and front-court size.

Townsville opened with a win over Queensland rivals Cairns (100–92) behind balanced production from Robert Rose (19 points, 5 rebounds), Andrew Goodwin (19 points, 13 rebounds), and Brad Davidson (15 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists).

A three-game losing streak followed before the Crocs steadied with a 99–82 road win over Perth on 3 Nov, then stacked back-to-back home victories against Victoria (122–112 on 20 Nov) and West Sydney (97–94 on 24 Nov). A New Year’s highlight came on 31 Dec when Rose (23 points, 12 rebounds, 10 assists) delivered a triple-double in a tight 95–98 home defeat from Wollongong. Andrew Goodwin (26 points, 6 rebounds) and Pat Reidy (20 points) also playing well in the loss.

Owes (6.4 points, 4.9 rebounds) was a shadow of his earlier NBL form as injuries hampered his impact across eight games, prompting Stacker to replace him mid-season with Shawn Harvey (7.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 1.8 steals), whose size on the wing and secondary playmaking helped balance the rotation.

Other key results included a 108–88 win over Brisbane in which Rose erupted for a season-high 44 points (15-of-24 FG, 8-of-12 3PT, 6-of-6 FT) with 6 rebounds and 6 steals, and, two weeks later, Andrew Goodwin’s 33-point, 17-rebound masterpiece (13-of-19 FG, 2-of-2 3PT) led the way, with Robert Rose (24 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists) and Mike Kelly (18 points, 11 rebounds, 8 assists, 3 steals) also having big nights in this one, to outlast Sydney trio Frank Drmic (24 points ), Shane Heal (23 points and 13 assists), and Ben Melmeth (21 points and 8 rebounds).

A home victory over reigning champions Wollongong provided a little revenge from their 1-2 grand final loss to the Hawks the year prior. Andrew Goodwin (23 points, 16 rebounds, and 2 steals), Brad Davidson (21 points) and Rose (18 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists) leading the way in that one.

By the end of the season however, the wheels had clearly fallen off. Townsville suffered home losses to Perth (106–120), Adelaide (107–114) and Victoria (120–125) in March—before the Crocs closed with a quality 105–97 road win at Perth on 23 Mar behind Mike Kelly (30 points, 11-of-11 FT), Robert Rose (19 points, 7 assists), Andrew Rice (19 points) and Andrew Goodwin (14 points, 7 rebounds). Townsville finished 13–17 and 13th on the ladder, missing the playoffs one year after reaching the Grand Final.

Robert Rose (22.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 5.5 assists 1.5 steals) delivered numbers similiar to his MVP season the year prior, but the absence of Mackinnon and the revolving second import meant heavier defensive attention and more shot-creation burden for Rose, making for a tougher season than last year.

Andrew Goodwin (17.6 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists), Pat Reidy (16.5 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 3 assists 1.1 steals) and Mike Kelly (15.5 points, 6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists 1.3 steals) rounded out the team’s other key contributors.

2002/03
The 2002/03 season saw Rose average 16.7 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.4 assists and play a key role in helping the Crocodiles to a third place finish in the regular season with a 19-11 record.

2003/04
During the 2003/04 season Rose averaged 16.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 4.1 assists and helped the Crocodiles finish with a record of 13-20 and end the regular season in ninth place.

2004/05
After a turbulent 2003/04 campaign marked by instability, the Townsville Crocodiles entered the 2004/05 NBL season with a reshaped roster. Head coach Ian Stacker parted ways with veterans Andrew Goodwin (retired), Peter Crawford (to Perth), and Mike Kelly (to Wollongong), bringing in new American imports Robert Brown and Casey Calvary, alongside Boomers sharpshooter John Rillie (via West Sydney), big man Derek Moore (via Adelaide), and promising rookie Brad Newley.

Returning veteran guard Robert Rose remained crucial, providing consistency and leadership throughout a transformative season. Across 34 regular-season appearances, Rose delivered well-rounded production with averages of (12.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.6 steals), serving as a stabilizing force within Townsville’s dynamic lineup. Rose effectively complemented leading scorer John Rillie (18.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 5.2 assists), versatile forward Casey Calvary (17.8 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks), powerful import Robert Brown (16.9 points, and 6.5 rebounds), and explosive rookie Brad Newley (16.0 points, and 3.3 rebounds).

Rose’s season included several standout performances, notably the season opener on October 2 against Adelaide, where he led the Crocodiles to a tight 114–111 victory, recording (21 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists). On October 15 against Perth, Rose again showcased his veteran presence with (21 points, 6 assists, and 2 steals) despite a 108–101 loss. He maintained strong form on November 6 against the Melbourne Tigers, leading Townsville with an efficient (20 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals) in a convincing 125–102 victory.

Rose’s versatility and defensive tenacity continued to anchor Townsville’s rotation, playing a pivotal role in guiding the Crocodiles to third place on the regular-season ladder with a 19–13 record. In January, the Townsville Entertainment Centre hosted the 2004/05 NBL All-Star Game, highlighted by teammate Brad Newley’s MVP-winning 35-point performance. Crocs teammates John Rillie (23 points) and Robert Brown (31 points for the World All-Stars, Dunk Contest champion) also contributed significantly to the showcase event.

Townsville began their postseason journey by hosting the Melbourne Tigers in the Elimination Final, securing a confident 112–100 victory. Rose’s veteran poise was instrumental; he delivered (13 points, 2 rebounds, and 6 assists) while effectively orchestrating the offense. Robert Brown starred with a game-high (22 points and 6 rebounds), supported strongly by Kelvin Robertson’s efficient shooting (17 points on 7/11 shooting) and John Rillie’s vital all-around contribution (17 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists). Townsville maintained control throughout, buoyed by a vocal home crowd of 5,257.

Advancing to the semi-finals, the Crocodiles faced a strong Illawarra Hawks side. In Game 1 on March 2 at the WIN Entertainment Centre, the Hawks applied defensive pressure early, forcing Townsville into difficult perimeter shots. Despite Rose’s solid effort (10 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists), and Rillie’s persistent attacking (15 points and 6 rebounds), Townsville shot just 2-of-15 from beyond the arc and committed 19 turnovers, resulting in a 100–84 loss. Illawarra’s Mat Campbell (21 points) and Glen Saville (19 points, 10 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks) led a balanced Hawks attack.

Returning home for Game 2 on March 5, Townsville battled fiercely in an attempt to force a deciding game. Rose contributed strongly, posting (10 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists), while Brad Newley (22 points, 6 rebounds) and Casey Calvary (20 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 blocks) led Townsville offensively. Despite improved offensive execution and shooting (44% from the field), the Crocs fell short in a gripping 109–105 defeat. The Hawks again relied on Glen Saville’s brilliant performance (24 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals) and crucial bench production from Mike Kelly (20 points) and Troy Pilon (19 points, 12 rebounds). Ultimately, Townsville’s spirited late rally was not enough, concluding their playoff run.

2005/06
Veteran guard Robert Rose returned to Townsville as the Crocodiles entered the season with significant roster changes. Pat Reidy retired, while Derek Moore and import Robert Brown exited the team. Larry Abney was brought in to replace Brown, providing athleticism and inside presence, while experienced guard Damon Lowery (via Wollongong) added backcourt depth. Development player Michael Cedar was promoted to the main roster to provide youthful energy.

Rose opened the season with a strong performance in Townsville’s 111–97 win over West Sydney, recording 13 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists while hitting 4-of-7 from beyond the arc. His composure and perimeter shooting helped complement the scoring of Brad Newley (24 points) and Larry Abney (24 points, 9 rebounds) as the Crocodiles started the season with four wins from their first five games.

Townsville looked promising early after wins over Adelaide (108–100), Perth (124–108), and New Zealand (122–113), but their form collapsed mid-season. They fell to Brisbane (94–107), were dismantled by Sydney (128–94), and dropped games to Hunter (99–104) and Melbourne (72–97). By Round 9, they had lost six of their last seven games, sliding to ninth on the ladder.

Rose’s role shifted as the season wore on. While his usage declined slightly, he remained a steady contributor. In the Round 11 win over Cairns (115–99), he added 16 points, complementing Newley’s 24 and Abney’s 20. Against Brisbane in Round 13, he added 14 points and 4 rebounds in a 107–116 loss, and had 13 points and 6 assists in the 131–128 shootout loss to the Kings in Round 14.

Though not as explosive as in past years, Rose continued to make smart plays and distribute the ball. In Round 17 against the Breakers, he was held scoreless (0-of-4 FG) but still added 2 assists and 3 rebounds in 30 minutes. In a 90–107 loss to Cairns in Round 23, he posted 10 points and 5 rebounds, one of his last double-digit scoring games of the season.

His consistent output for the season included (8.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.3 blocks across 32 games), operating as a stabilising presence in a team that struggled to convert effort into results. He remained one of the Crocodiles’ most dependable veterans, offering leadership and versatility on both ends of the floor.

Townsville’s final win came in Round 22 against Adelaide (101–93), with Rose contributing alongside standout performances from Abney (22 points, 14 rebounds), Newley (20 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists), and Vanderjagt (20 points, 8 rebounds, 3 blocks).

Brad Newley (19.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.9 blocks across 32 games) solidified his rise by earning All-NBL Second Team honours and an All-Star selection. Abney (20.1 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 1.5 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.0 blocks across 32 games) led the team in both scoring and rebounding. Casey Calvary (17.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.4 blocks across 30 games) anchored the frontcourt with consistent production.

John Rillie (15.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.3 steals, and 0.2 blocks) offered shooting and composure throughout the season. Contributions also came from Kelvin Robertson (7.8 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 2.0 assists), Greg Vanderjagt (6.3 points, 3.4 rebounds), and Damon Lowery (5.5 points, 1.9 rebounds, 1.4 assists), while young players Cameron Tragardh (3.1 points) and Michael Cedar (2.6 points) added bench depth.

The Crocodiles finished with a 9–23 record and failed to reach the playoffs. Following the season, both Rose and head coach Ian Stacker’s contract was not renewed, signalling a shift in direction for the franchise.

CAIRNS TAIPANS
2006/07
At age 42, after the Crocodiles decided not to renew Rose’s contract. He then signed with North Queensland rivals the Cairns Taipans for the 2006/07 season and averaged 4.6 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 0.9 assists. The Taipans finished with a record of 17-16, finishing in sixth place during the regular season.

Rose then retired having played in 472 NBL games.

Robert Rose played sixteen seasons across four NBL teams. This included the South East Melbourne Magic, Canberra Cannons, Townsville Crocodiles, Adelaide 36ers and Cairns Taipans. He averaged 19 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 5.1 assists in 477 NBL games.

CAREER RANKINGS:
– 23rd in total games played.
– 9th in total points
– 14th in total rebounds
– 6th in total assists
– 6th in total steals
– 35th in total blocks

HIGHLIGHTS: