Ernie Cook

Career Overview

Ernie Cook was a defensive anchor and steady offensive contributor for more than two decades, competing from 1988 through 2011. After beginning with the Austin A’s in 1988, he became a cornerstone of the Austin Blackhawks during one of the most dominant eras in NBBA history.

Cook’s game was built on defensive consistency, positioning, and the ability to convert critical outs in high pressure moments. Across recorded World Series statistics later in his career, he appeared in 62 games, logged 222 at bats, scored 99 runs, recorded 128 putouts, and maintained a .446 batting average.

World Series Excellence

Cook earned multiple World Series All-Star selections and MVP honors, highlighted by elite defensive production.

• World Series All-Star, Austin, TX
• Defensive All-Star, 27 putouts, Houston, TX
• Defensive MVP, 39 putouts, St. Louis Park, MN
• Offensive MVP, .683 batting average, Denver, CO
• Defensive standout, 3.43 putouts per game, Topeka, KS
• Defensive standout, 3.50 putouts per game, 21 total putouts, Sacramento, CA
• Defensive standout, 4.70 putouts per game, 33 total putouts, Taipei, Taiwan

His 1992 performance remains one of the most dominant defensive tournaments in league history, recording 39 putouts. In 2000 at the international World Series in Taipei, he averaged 4.70 putouts per game, demonstrating exceptional range and reliability on the world stage.

Sustained Production

Even in later seasons, Cook remained productive at the plate. He batted .571 in 2001, .600 in 2002, and .688 in 2003, proving that his offensive skill matched his defensive impact. His longevity and adaptability allowed him to contribute meaningfully across multiple championship cycles.

Legacy

Ernie Cook exemplified defensive excellence during one of the NBBA’s most competitive eras. A key member of the Austin Blackhawks’ sustained success, he combined consistency, durability, and high level performance over more than twenty seasons.

His ability to deliver both offensively and defensively in championship settings secured his place among the elite players in NBBA history.