Willie Burton

Willie Burton is a former American basketball player who became a significant figure in New Zealand basketball after moving there. He was named the most outstanding Kiwi forward/centre in 1997 and represented the New Zealand Tall Blacks in their historic 2001 series win over Australia. Beyond his playing career, Burton has made a lasting impact as a coach, mentoring young athletes in Hawke’s Bay and earning induction into the Basketball Hawke’s Bay Hall of Fame in 2011. He currently works as a social worker and student support mentor, helping young people find their path and purpose.