Aussie Hoopla has a decent updated list of signings, rumours and whatnot. Fun to follow every off-season.

https://aussiehoopla.com/nbl-free-agent-tracker/

Interesting to note that from a Brisbane perspective, Baynes is tagged as not returning. Same deal with Prather.

Thanks for the link Ben, some interest comments there on a few guys I haven't seen elsewhere

Yes good link, I'm not convinced they don’t get a lot of their information from around here.

It looks like Glover is a free agent on that list. Says contract to 2024. Some sides got some horrible players on that signed list.

I am surprised Sydney signed Bruce for 2 more years

Goorj, always likes a bit of an enforcer type, sledger.

"Goorj, always likes a bit of an enforcer type, sledger."

Bruce does have a fair of Darren Lucas about him now that you mention it.

Bruce will fit in just fine under Goorj. There's no question his numbers were not great this season, but he's probably the one single most important player to bring back culture-wise.

Would be great to see how Vickerman fits Jack White into the United lineup if he does return. Could see him sharing the 4 with Travers and some small ball 5 with Hukporti departing. Travers to continue working on his ball handling and outside shot with further time at the 3.

PJC signed at Galatasaray for this season end and next, entertainment loss, excellent player. Played previously for other big clubs in Europe.

Travers has been good at the four this season but really is two, three size and has the skills to play there.
I could see White at SEM if Creek does leave.

What's the Creek departure rumour? Surely as the face of SEM would stick around, must be getting frustrated with the lack of success and poor team structure of late however.

Much bigger money overseas.

Copeland said he believes that Creek will be gone, overseas money. He has been the franchise head, no doubt but with little success. Very well liked by the fan base. As I said elsewhere, it's a bit like Luka Doncic, excellent player but no great team success. Olgun didn’t mention names but hinted the same. I think they realise things must change.

Pineau only contracted player at breakers, Moar hardly played him.

WMW and Delaney mutual options. I don't think either will stay.

It would be a different look to this season, but White could work alongside Travers, those two taking the two forward spots in the starting 5.

JLA is 30 soon, NBA seems less likely than it did 12 months ago, so does he take another Chinese paycheck or does he stay with United? Time will tell. Not sure United could afford Jack White, unless they forego all imports. Flynn Cameron is ready to play bigger minutes so maybe they would go All-local.

Is Jack White a free agent or tied to united, numerous clubs could use his talents.

Jack White is tied to United.

Is he?

https://nbl.com.au/news/jack-white-extends-contract-with-melbourne Whites right to refusal has one more season

I think jack will either stick around nba and then maybe europe before returning

DJV talking about 36ers running signings past him and chatting to Cleveland.

"The ownership group told me that when I re-signed, whatever decision was made they would check in with me first."

https://nbl.com.au/news/adelaide-chases-star-signing

Brock Motum keen for NBL return

Still putting up solid numbers. A few clubs would be enquiring

Very good stats, hard to read the quality of opposition as it's B-2.

Sam Menenga to breakers.

Motum would be a decent pick up at the 4 next to Humphries. Can shoot to space it for him.

Import/Cadee
Vasiljevic/Dech
Import/Marshall
Motum/
Humphries/

Nice looking side, I'm certain defensively it’s great.

According to Olgun, Kristian Doolittle has re-signed with the Wildcats for next season

Good decision to bring back Doolittle.

Doolittle was great, good signing.

First move I would have made. Two thumbs up from me.

Doolittle re-signing is official
Kristian Doolittle is back for NBL25

I feel Perth need another big. They got mauled inside by teams with quality 7 footers.

And the annual Brock Motum return to the NBL is back. Has there ever been a more rumoured return to the NBL than him?

Chuck Kornegay?

Wildcats Roster

Both Webster's are on a mutual option. I think they will take Tai and not Corey
Michael Harris & Donte Russo-Nance are both being elevated to full roster on their second year.
David Okwera signed a 3 year contract with 3rd as an option so still full roster.

Looks like they have 2 roster spots and a next star left.
If Jesse Wagstaff re-signs what type of import do they need?

Here is the roster so far:

Tai Webster??? / Donte Russo-Nance
*Bryce Cotton / Ben Henshall
*Kristian Doolittle / Michael Harris
Hyrum Harris / Jesse Wagstaff???
Keanu Pinder / David Okwera

Import would depend on the next star.

One of the import or next star would need to be a big, maybe an import 4 to start, can play some 5 if required.

Alex Condon, Harry Wessels are a couple of good quality Perth bigs currently playing in college who would fit well if they had the roster space for them.

bul kuol to syd

Kuol and Noi battling each other for minutes and who's got the biggest ego. LOL

Kuol, overrated imo. Arm and shirt puller defender, can shoot through, up grade on Noi.

The free agency list looking rather bare, certainly if more players head OS.

Hearing Glover leaving kings. Makes sense if Kuol going there.

Some Perth Wildcats news:

Currently in talks with Mitch McCarron, appear to be the most likely spot for him.

Also interested in WMW, Tom Wilson, Alex Ducas but appear less likely.

Corey Webster, Kyle Zunic won't be back, Tai and Jesse seem likely to be there next year but not 100%.

The interest in McCarron and others is fascinating, as if they only move on from CWeb and Zunic, they will have no local roster spots left with Michael Harris and Dontae Russo-Nance being elevated to main roster. So potentially looking at another Blanchfield/Norton situation, maybe David Okwera could be in line.

McCarron to the Cats, intriguing! I don't hate it we could do a lot worse but the idea of Harris and Russo-Nance in full roster spots doesn't fill me with confidence. Will they be full roster spots as in they get court timee or just warm seats closer to Rillie?

At first I didn't like it, but Perth lacked playable PG depth last year behind T. Web, there's definitely a role to fill there for McCarron

Breakers apparently about to announce a signing. "Sources point to a very high-level "local" player who has featured elsewhere in the NBL"

I can't help but think glover might head to breakers. His grittiness is just what mody likes.

Leafa has an option but assuming WMW leaves I think breakers will move him to PG then go for a gun shooting guard

Can they announce local players before free agency, could it be an ex nbl overseas player. The rumours on Glover were Sixers and Phoenix.

I thought Hawks was most likely for Glover lol

Bad blood between Glover and the Hawks maybe after the last couple of seasons, which would be a shame. I'd love for him to come back, but understand why he probably won't.

Perth would be one of the best spots for McCarron I think. He's definitely not Martin, but he's Martin-lite and would do well next to Cotton. McCarron-Doolittle are good versatile defensive pieces, and then an import scorer at the 3 spot. McCarron-Cotton-Import-Doolittle-Pinder, Webster off the bench.

McCarron on Perth is just a worst fit than Tai ... not a scorer/shooter & defense is just as bad as Tai. At least Tai could score on his matchup at times. McCarron isn't Norton/Martin on defense but you can say a better passer

Look out for the name Myles Powell on Sydney Kings radar
Import PG played under Goorj in Asia

That's if he would leave China

I know Powell from his time in the G-league, can seriously score the pill, like crazy, but more of scoring 2-guard, Bryce Cotton mould, don't if he could be a championship winning point guard.

Just to be clear there was no basis to my comment on glover to the breakers other than hope!

It feels like nearly every team must be after a local centre. Even MU if JLA doesn't take up his option.

Most will prob try for hunter before signing anyone else... but what other potential starters are free?

More likely McCarron to NZ which would mean WMW is unlikely to return.
If McCarron is surrounded with some shooters and isn't on big money it could be an ok plan B.

I can't see the Goorj letting Hunter go, certainly now Bolden is looking for bigger money, will probably end up OS.

Some Perth Wildcats news:

Currently in talks with Mitch McCarron, appear to be the most likely spot for him.

You might be right dunkman but I just can't see the kings ownership valuing him as much as other teams

I'm resigned to losing WMW but doubt MM is the type of guard mody will want

Mangok is free to a good home for those wanting a big! I can't bear watching him fumble his way through another season

Money making Mitch agent is testing the market, he's basically been a chance on nearly all teams, who does take him hopefully don’t pay overs.
WMW I still believe is a big chance at bullets, it’s home and they have the Baynes money.

I think MM will be perfect, Perth can maximise him in a way 36ers never could.

If Galloway goes north, 36ers are probably looking like 3 imports needed.

I get the feeling if Cleveland returns to Australia it's probably Sydney.

Hunter won't be in Sydney, rumour is probably playing overseas

Doing well co far in Latvia, I did hear Japan but when Goorj signed I thought he would stay, certainly now it looks like Bolden going as well.

Kouat Noi is returning to the Sydney Kings on a 3 year deal

Nice bench signing, can be very useful in games, not quite the nba that he told everyone he was going to, in fairness his game could suit the nba. As Roth once remarked, the nbl has quite a few players that could play nba.

Happy Noi is returning. He's far surpassed my expectations and I'm looking forward to seeing what Goorj can do with him. Outside of just bomb from deep I think he's developed a bit as a bully-ball tweener forward offensively at the NBL level, similar to how he has looked in the NBL1 when I've watched him there.

Any Wildcats supporters slightly concerned with the roster heading into free agency?
We have youth and emerging potential on the bench but is that necessarily considered depth.
Michael Harris lights it up in NBL1 but also plays big minutes. Doesn't ever seem to get on the court long enough to warm up for the Wildcats. Nance and Henshall we can only assume will get minutes after a year of training with the team and hopefully have a break out season. Everyone seems to love Hyrum and Wags but they are both role players/hype guys and having both in the same position doesn’t really seem like a good fit to me. Surely Okwera isn’t going to be the big coming off the bench. We need a solid centre to back up Pinder and have not had one for quite a while. I am not convinced Jack Andrew will ever be elevated from DP either. With little room left to move pieces, it will be interesting to see how they look to improve the roster.

Any Wildcats supporters slightly concerned with the roster heading into free agency?

Jjs have extended jack mcveigh three years abd anthony drmic for another season. The core of this team is now locked in. Now interesting to see what they do with Lee and Crawford

Sorry the jjs have extended mcveigh another two years so locked in for three years now

Perthworld, according to your logic that Perth have the worst coach in the league, their roster must be pretty damn good to have finished 2nd seed and almost beaten the eventual champs?

We have Bryce, who went on a tear to keep us a float in many games to get to second. I don't mind the roster, just feel what we need and spaces available aren’t necessarily lining up to make changes. But maybe the guys on the bench will actually be allowed to play this season. In which case, no idea how we might actually look because 3-4 bench players rarely took to the court. Bryce, Pinder and Usher were the only players to average over 10pts for the season. Hoping to see Doolittle score a bit more this season, definitely capable of averaging more than 8.97ppg.

Some interesting signings according to Michael Randall, bit of merry go round:
- Le'Afa set to join Sydney as a replacement for Glover
- Mitch McCarron set to join NZ as a replacement for Le'Afa

It's a combination of both - this playing roster with Rillie. The latter requires even more firepower to paper over his deficiencies.

Waardenburg till end 26 and Goulding till end 27 seasons, both very good signings for Cairns and Melbourne.

"With NBL free agency set to begin on Monday, United have Matthew Dellavedova, Shea Ili, Luke Travers, Kyle Bowen, Tanner Krebs, Flynn Cameron and Goulding all under contract. “

That's pretty strong in terms of 1-3 (possibly 4). Would they go with two import 5-men, or a 5 and a 5-4?

Cooks really getting good stats in the b league at present, problem is they haven't won a game since Mooney got injured.

Perth have picked up Tai Webster's team option, but not corey Webster's.

You would think they are now out of the WMW race

Would it MaxM? They'll need another ball handler on the bench and there wouldn't be a lot of cash left if they succeed in getting WMW and perhaps another import.

They literally have no spaces left now. Dontae Russo-Nance and Michael Harris are being elevated from DP to roster spots, Kyle Zunic and Corey Webster are departing.

With Tai and Jesse resigned, Perth have no local spots left unless they buy someone out.

So all they have left is an import/next star.

Perth right now
Webster/Russo-Nance
Cotton/Harris/Henshall
Harris/
Doolittle/Wagstaff/Okwera
Pinder

Unless cut or buy someone out they have one next star and a marquee/import.

So here's the Wildcats squad. What type of import & next star do they need?
I personally think a big banger in the middle.

1. Tai Webster / Donte Russo-Nance
2. *Bryce Cotton / Ben Henshall
3. *Kristian Doolittle / Michael Harris
4. Hyrum Harris / Jesse Wagstaff
5. Keanu Pinder / David Okwera

Import 4/5 to start alongside Pinder in place of Hyrum, who can also play some solo 5 as well.

Simon Mitchell, GM of basketball operations. He's always been a very personable people person, good luck to him, him and Kelly should be good together.

Wow - New Zealand apparently are likely to sign Jonah bolden and Mojave king according to Michael Randall

Wow - New Zealand apparently are likely to sign Jonah bolden and Mojave king according to Michael Randall

Kings without both fives from last season if true and rumours are correct.

Where's Hunter going?

Would be a good pickup for United to replace Hukporti.

Most likely spot for Hunter has been reported as the Phoenix

I'd be tipping Japan

Yep, Japan is what I've heard is most likely.

Not sure about bolden but hard to judge for nbl from last season. He wasn't overwhelming but most of the kings underperformed.

King is solid but doesn't seem to fit either SG or PG so I guess just a backup combo guard. Would prefer leafa

Also lots of rumors WMW to the kings which looks more likely than cats and bullets based on rosters

Breakers-wise, I hear that they're the favourites to sign McCarron, Cam Gliddon appears to be re-signing and Dame Sarr is the upcoming Next Star coming to Auckland.

With that in mind, the Breakers rotation would look like this:

Bolden / Pineau / (Local - Risetto?)
Import* / Mennenga
Import* / (Local - Te Rangi?)
Sarr (NS) / King / Gliddon
PJC* / McCarron

While a little less Kiwi than anticipated, there is some talent there. Would like to see Te Rangi return and be the veteran/hustle-oriented leader on the bench.

The free agents list is out, Hukporti listed at United as next star, how long do next stars contracts go, seem like he been here for ever.

PyroCross, I like your line up but ask is Bolden a STARTING Centre with Pineau as back-up. Would rather see Bolden start at the 4 with an import Centre. As in:

Import*/ Pineau / (Local - Risetto?)
Bolden / Mennenga
Import* / (Local - Te Rangi?)
Sarr (NS) / King / Gliddon
PJC* / McCarron

Small detail, just think that they need a bit more size and see that as the C's role.

List missing Pinder and Doolittle as contracted players, perhaps more missed

Gary Clarke on list, hawks better get the cheque book out.

Cooks also missing, if his signing is legitimate.

RobT that's a very weak bench imo

Savvy move from Perth to renegotiate Dontae Russo-Nance into another DP season, rather than a full roster spot.

They now have a free local roster spot.

I agree hoopie, I was referring to the 4/5 spot only. Without a couple of gun imports, their starters look weak.

I've heard WMW has now ruled jj's out as he feels its a lose-lose situation. if they win again they've already done that and if they dont win it all again its his fault and they should've kept j.crawford. Sydney and brisbane front runners at this stage with sydney most likely

Yeah apparently WMW to Sydney...

Cooks back in the winners circle with the return of Mooney to the team. Both with very good stats, kings need to bring that defensive big in the middle.

Kyrin galloway has agreed to a multi-year deal with Cairns, per Michael Randall

Very good result for taipans if true, Waardenburg in the five, his best spot and Galloway in the four, building nicely.

Shittttt another one gets away.
Sigh.

So the WMW situation confuses me.

Doesn't seem like there's money in Perth, and I doubt Tai will accept a bench role.
The Tassie option appears to have gone.
Sydney was thought to be the favourite, but has that stance now gone?
Brisbane wants to sign WMW to a roster with Isaac White, Mitch Norton and Shannon Scott already signed to play the 1?

Did the marquee FA market fall out the bottom for Will?

Is Gorjok Gak to Tassie anything other than rumour at this stage? Or is it a deal that's been/set to be done

Tomorrow might start the ball rolling, imo Gak is just a rumour, agents getting their players out there, it's quite often the case the ones that are very quiet or no rumours get done.

Fair point, if the JJs don't get Lee back I wouldn’t be surprised if he was a target for them though

Ausssie Hoopla Free Agency tracker has Gak to Jackies. nOt reported anywhere else.

We'll wait and see then

Perth interested in Lat Mayen, per Lachy Reid

The mayen doesn't make sense for me doolittle / hyrum would be started the devlopment of henshall then wagstaff and okwera.

like Lachy reid also report Travers was gonna be back at perth this last season

I like the NBA trade deadline approach of the NBL having a live stream

Is there any legitimacy to Motum returning? Or is it just same rumour we get this time every year?

Motom playing b2 league, I'm not certain he’d be good enough anymore, certainly for the money he’d want.

Sobey officially to SEM confirmed. Time will tell on this signing, certainly at defensive end.

So far we've got

Wani Swaka Lo Buluk - 3 years with the Hawks
Bul Kuok - 3 years with the Kings
Jonah Bolden - 1 year with the Breakers
Mitch McCarron - 2 years with the Breakers
Mojave King - 1 year with the Breakers
Nathan Sobey - 2 years with Phoenix (mutual option 2nd year)
Angus Glover - 2 years with Phoenix
Keli Leaupepe - 3 years with the Kings
Lat Mayen - 1 year with the 36ers
Deng Adel - 1 year with the Bullets
Kyrin Galloway - 2 years with the Taipans
Gorjock Gak - 2 years with the JackJumpers
Tyler Robertson - 3 years with the Kings
Jackson Makoi - 1 year with the Taipans

Nice work LaPark, keep it up thanks.

Some good signings and some very average, Deng is playing 2nd league in France, maybe some these guys are total budget players.

Izayah Le'Afa - 2 years with the Kings

Cooks, Kuol, L'Afa - Kings will be locking everyone down at the defensive end

Ian Clark is the interesting big name other than WMW- he's still available? I remember he indicated interest in staying in NBL

Sorry! Gary Clark from the Hawks I meant to say

Tyler Robertson looks like an interesting signing. 5 year college player so a little older, strong senior season stat wise.

Gary Clark loves Australia by all reports, I think he'll be back, but the Hawks will need to pay up if it will be in Illawarra.

Pretty happy with the Breakers signings so far.

Same, Breakers have done well. McCarron will be fine in a bench role, King might be an impact player, and Mody might be able to get more out of Bolden who turned into a bit of a one-trick pony after the game where he caught fire from deep last season.

Agree mystro. The panel were talking of them signing an import centre but I'd rather a pf that can play some sf and a high level sg

Brantley and barry brown returning would be fine!

Interesting theirs some whispers of mantas returning but I can't see it happening personally. Think of he misses the nba he'd rather Europe

Breakers signings have upside although risk involved.

Will still need another decent local player if Delany leaves.

If Rubstavicius comes back will help.

Both Mennenga & Bolden are listed as 6'8" forwards so I wouldn’t be opposed to a 6’10” 6’11” import Centre. Then an Import SF in the ilk of Hopson, athletic with a handle, decent 3 ball.

Bolden is at least 6'10", he’s always wanted to be a guard and imo kept his height less. Menengas stats in his Greece stint are not that encouraging and he’s playing big minutes. PJC covers a lot holes though.

With the signing of Gak to JJs, Roth is probably going to get him to be a polished diamond from a rough one, you would think Lee becomes available.

Bolden has been listed at 6'8 his entire college and professional career - he is not 6'10.

Jordan Hunter is 6'10 and Bolden is noticeably shorter than him, Pinder looked taller than Bolden as well when they played.

Mystro - it's been reported that Bolden is gonna be playing PF at NZ, which is more of his natural position.

Yeah very keen to see how Roth molds Gak to be a JJs player

Mystro - if breakers sign import C & SF then who's going to play SG?? The nbl doesn't suit import centres IMO. They're generally whistled out of the game even on offence so provide poor value. Like big sauce

Maybe Rubstavicius returns as a NS if there isn't any draft interest?

PJC / McCarron
Rubstavicius / King
Import / ?
Bolden / Mennenga
Import / Pineau

Anzac Rissetto
Dan Fotu
Reuban TeRangi

Any other local options?

Safe to assume that WMW to Perth is kaput considering Cats weren't mentioned in the list of teams chasing him on marketplace today? I read on Cats FB supporters page (likely nonsense) Baynes and Cats potentially in talks. Dunno how I feel about that is he scrap heap material or just a crappy season? Seems to be roidy with the outbursts and physical play.

Delaney is still under contract? I believe, he's a four. It looks to me that breakers are spending less this season.

Delaney has a player option and won't be taking it up apparently so Bolden is his replacement.

Pardon would be great to bring back as an import C and Ian Clark or similar would make the team very competitive.

Dame Sarr has been linked to the Breakers. As much as I loved Mantas, Sarr is an upgrade.

I read on Cats FB supporters page (likely nonsense) Baynes and Cats potentially in talks. Dunno how I feel about that is he scrap heap material or just a crappy season? Seems to be roidy with the outbursts and physical play.

I don't agree that Dame Sarr would be better than Mantas - Mantas was statistically the best next star last year from a production stand point and one of the most offensive offensive players in the league.

Sarr is much higher up draft boards because he's 18 and more athletic, but scouting reports I have read suggest he lacks a lack of polish and creation - which is what you would expect.

Also apparently Mantas is definitely not back next year. If not drafted, then will be in Europe. Unfortunate, he was so smooth to watch.

Most efficient offensive players*

Mantas was great, will be a better player than some of those drafted.

Initial surge now all quiet. Hopefully WMW makes his decision so sides can start chasing othe point guards.

Yeah once MWM decides I think we'll start seeing some updates re: imports as well.

what did I miss? The cats get no one?

what did I miss? The cats get no one?

ok damn- thanks

Jackjumpers have parted ways with Jarred Bairstow. No surprise as they have to clear some spots for Gorjok Gak as well as promoting MacDonald from DP to main roster. Expect a similar announcement regarding the departure of Tom Vodanovich in the coming days. Bairstows departure leaves Magnay, McVeigh, MacDonald, Steindl and Krslovic as the 5 players who have been with the JJs from the beginning who will play with them in NBL25.

WMW is asking for huge dollars on multiple years. Way out of Perth's range after some talks they just can’t meet his demands.

Wmw is talented and in demand, but has he shown consistency to warrant it?
You can go back to juniors, to college etc, injuries and inconsistency always follow him.
Season before last was great, took the breakers to a sniff of a championship, and showed every bit of his talent, but are we going to see it next year or more injuries etc?

Agree 100% Billy Bob, it's a risk and reward signing, hopefully who gets him it’s more reward.

Surprised no Tom Wilson chat - are we thinking Perth? SEM? Sydney even?

Have you followed tigers in nbl1 south, have a look at stats, certainly the plus minus column. In saying all that, clubs have now time to see how things pan out, he like others are probably not top of the radar at present.

Free agents I thought we'd hear rumours about by now...

DJ Mitchell
Corey Webster
Reuben Te Rangi
Anzac Rissetto
Craig Moller

How many of these five are in the NBL next season? I'm hoping the Breakers pickup Te Rangi and Anzac, and it'd be utterly hilarious (and saddening) if we do another go-around with Corey.

Te Rangi was probably one of the worst rotation players in the NBL next year, for the Breakers' sake I hope if anything he just a bench leadership role if he goes there

I don't think mody will take te rangi and I hope that's the case too

Doesn't seem to be an obvious role available for risetto

Moller probably heading OS, SEM should try keep him though as he was probably there best till injury. Rissetto showed a bit as well and still very young. Mitchell like Moller was very good till injury. The rest could be late picks or injury replacements.

I don't understand NBL clubs and their aversion to Moller.

How do you know NBL clubs have an aversion?

Would be a great pickup for United's last local spot. Doubt they'll be able to afford him though- since he'd effectively be replacing Newley.

Hunter signs a three year deal with SEM, with an Asia opt-out every year INCLUDING this year. Not surprised Sydney moved on to be honest, quite a gamble as he will attract top dollar in Japan given how he is playing in EU right now.

Will WMW be forced to take up his player option with the Breakers because he's priced himself out of the market?

Moller had injuries, lots players do, he's also got euro experience so imo he probably not settling for a low dollar contract, my grapevine is that a few clubs are looking closely.

Is that confirmed on Hunter, did hear this a few weeks back though, if correct and SEM got Hunter, Glover, they should chase moller again for trifecta of kings players. Hunter and Moller were good mates in kings days.

Hunter news posted by league mouth-piece Olgun so paper may not have been faxed to NBL HQ yet but as official as can be without being posted by the NBL themselves.

It's a strange set up with out clause, you think he would be a big chance over there, certainly now he has shown good form in Latvia.

Moller had injuries, lots players do, he's also got euro experience so imo he probably not settling for a low dollar contract, my grapevine is that a few clubs are looking closely.

Pretty sure once WMW waives his option he can't reneg unless they both agree for a new contract. And there'd be other teams willing to pay more than the breakers you'd hope considering they don't need a starting PG

Mooney looking absolutely unstoppable in Japan, any team with big money and need a 5 should go straight to him. Cooks will certainly strengthen kings. Chris Smith can't miss a shot, certainly looking far better than what bullets got out of him.

NBL simply can't afford legit import fives sadly.

I'll never forget what Chris Burgess did in this league, playing for the Taipans in the mid-2000s, who was lost to an inferior Asian competition as well.

Mooney is wonderful for Chiba tonight, worth every dollar to any team. Smith looked like the player he was supposed to be, Scheuler might just not know how to use him, Cooks was fine but still just can't shoot jumpers. Newbill stats for the losers look ok but he made so many poor decisions and over dribbled the ball. Good tough game overall. Refs certainly let them play.

"Chris Smith can't miss a shot, certainly looking far better than what bullets got out of him."

The mistake the Bullets made was not playing in the B-League, then Smith would have been a star for them.

Joy headed Adelaide

Smith looked a player, maybe coaches got work out how to use the talent at their hands better. After thinking the b league was a bit of crap league, the games I've watched have been highly competitive and really enjoyable, the refs allow more physical contact under the bucket but clamp down on arm hacks , don’t fall for the the kick out on threes, call the charge, block calls better imo, it was impressive.

Who is Joy?

B-League is ok, but comparing it to the NBL is not apples and oranges. The difference in quality of local talent is enormous.

A lot of the comments have actual eluded to the problem. The nbl whistles import bigs out of the game for the physicality they are used to in other leagues. Pardon and the sauce for example. So they're not going to come for the same or lower pay when their market value drops as a result. Why would they leave Japan?

It's cool to listen to clueless people. Japanese refs in the hierarchy of FIBA referees is at the NZ level. NZ haven’t had an Olympic referee since 2004 and Japan only have Kato as their elite referee. Everyone else would struggle at NBL1 level

Sebastian, Harsh opening even if your point is probably right. However, wasn't the point Kolzee was making. Can we agree that bigs prefer to play under lower grade refs.

...or in competitions which allow more contact.

Aren't bigs allowed a lot more physicality in the euro leagues as well?

Bigs like to play in a league where you can use your strength, nbl refs blow the whistle when you're backing down an opponent and he flops, body up and another foul. As I said it was a great standard of game, tough and flowing. Obviously they pay very well as well.

One of the best examples of the NBL officiating being officiated different to the rest of the world, how many times do we hear commentators say "oh so and so hasn't adjusted to the way the game is officiated here. “

Yes the euro leagues also allow more physical contact, body on body. The nbl back down rule is laughable. Just look at last World Cup, referees totally different to nbl. The kick out rule on the three point shot also is out hand, imo Cotton is probably a natural way he shoots but all else just throw the leg out and hope.

Lets back up a little...

Q Anon, who is Joy?

The best example I can think of a big man playing well but being punished for being big was Colton Iverson. Found himself in Japan too.

I think the Joy Q Anon is referring to is the joy we'll all have at the AEC not having to watch a team coached by CJ Bruton this year.

Or maybe Joy heading to Adelaide because of an imminent signing?

A pun for both the players name and joy for fans

Maybe he meant to type Joey?

Q Anon strike rate has been a bit off lately. I wouldn't read to much into it.

There is a reason he is anon lol

Jack White returning to United on a two year deal

White, Cooks, Magnay, Froling, Humphries, Hunter and Pinder. What an elite group of local bigs

Plus young, local BGs getting announced

For sure, the big men battles will be one of the most interesting aspects this season

Hunter doing fantastic work in Latvia at present, I'd be surprised if b league doesn’t call.

Strike rate has been off has it?
Only one that I've been wrong on was WMW and that was due to the incoming GM killing the deal late in the piece.
New assistant coach to be announced soon. This one is already ruffling the feathers. His time at Cooper Pedy didnt get any opals.

Ignore them Q Anon.

It's why we can't (and generally don't) have nice things around here in terms of sources.

Oh, so more "what the heck?" decision making from the 36ers incoming?

Q Anon is the new assistant replacing Kubank, or in addition to?

Did WMW fall through due to asking price maybe?

Brendan Joyce? Haha

WMW rumours in the German press to be going to Berlin, season still a month to run so if true probably sitting on an announcement. Second highest paying club in Germany, plays in top euro league. Wetzel been there under a German passport, been ok but gets found out defensively against the top euro bigs.

Master Chief is off to KFC

@Beantown in lieu of

CEO was happy to sign WMW new GM thought it was over paying.

The power struggle is on

Not a bad thing the new GM thought it was over paying. Knowing Adelaide it would have been way overs. Probably would have left the team without a 3 and 4.

WMW confirmed to Berlin, be an excellent league for him and no nbl team could match their offers.

Assumed Kubank was a key piece last year and complimented Scotty. If he left, then so be it, but hopefully we didn't push him out the door.

Culture is very important

Thanks for the info Q Anon. I'm not sure which side I land on with WMW. He’s a good player but has had injuries. I can understand not wanting to overpay if it will limit what imports can be signed at other positions. There is the risk of McCarron 2.0 and we don’t want that. Possibly a good sign that the owner is listening to his GM rather than over-ruling him?

In very unsurprising news the JJs have parted ways with Lachie Barker, was never going to be room on the roster for him realistically. Hope someone picks him up though, he's always had potential.

Brisbane have signed 6'5 import shooting guard Keandre Cook. Current averaging 14pts a game in Germany, and has spent some time in the G-League with the Greensboro Swarm

K Cook side got relegated, ok stats, not certain he'll be a difference maker for bullets. With no Baynes and Sobey, who is getting all the money up there.

Hopefully the new superstar point guard that the need to be competitive.

Cooks team knocked out in the semifinals to night, kings will probably officially announce his signing. Mooney had a very off night, really enjoying the b league though.

Tad skeptical on this signing isn't a winning player where he has played
yes he's played in g league but 8 games or something seems odd.
and playing in Germany where he's team finished 2nd last it seems like he was go to guy. He might be Smith 2.0 or a really good player keen to see how it pans out.

Golden Kings had vic Law coming off the bench and he got Cooks defensively one on one to often as the commentator said, also they did an exceptional job boxing out both Mooney and Cooks to win the rebounding by ten.

36ers signed Ben Griscti for 3 years

"The 211cm centre returns home to Adelaide after spending the past three years in the NCAA college system, playing the past season at UC Riverside after transferring from University of the Incarnate Word Athletics."

"During the 2023-24 season, Griscti started 19 of 33 games at centre, averaging 7.8 points and 3.3 rebounds per game for the Highlanders, while connecting on 38 per cent of his shots from beyond the three-point line."

Could be a nice pickup for them, and Humphries potentially offers great mentorship for the kid.

Not a signing that screams production.

Im glad we got a back up C as we were looking a bit small, he also seems like a decent prospect so be interesting to see how he goes,

Olgun reporting it's a full roster spot, meaning that we only have room for 2 imports. Don’t think we have the quality on the roster to roll with two imports again. Unless we have a quality Next Star lined up.

Hmm a little annoying if its now 2 imports, when the reporting has always been 3 high level imports, we probably have over invested in locals.

I guess if it was financially either a min salary import or Griscti, they possibly made the right decision

Lets say our imports are Jaylen Adams and DJ Hogg, both playing at their peaks is this team playoffs worthy

Humphries/Griscti
Hogg/Starling
Mayen/Marshall/Rigoni
Vasiljevic/Dech
Adams/Caddee

Its not too different to the team we finished with that Ninnis took to 8w - 7l , so may be OK.

Surely they look at adjusting some contracts? Pushing one of the young guys to a DP spot or classifying Griscti as a next star? Give me some kind of hope! I think recall a few times where DPs have received a full contract but were then made a DP again?

Unless we have a Alex Sarr or Justinian Jessup level Next Star lined up, we will be pushing ish up hill to compete once again

I think its a super hard top 4 to crack

Like you can almost lock in Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Tassie to make at least the 6, then you still have Illawarra and New Zealand who made the 6 last year, who I would expect at least 1 of those 2 to make the 6,

So really the rest of the teams including Adelaide are fighting for 1 of the top 6 spots.

So yeah depending on imports I think we are looking better than the start of last season, but is it enough to make the top 4-6? It will be tough.

As I have said before they will be running with 2 imports until November or so awaiting the Aussie 4 that could be available.

If that doesn't come off then an import will be slotted in.

Who's leaving Q Anon? Currently the roster only allows for two imports/2 full roster spots.

Are you saying 2 imports are incoming and a local will be cut for either an upgraded local or Import in Nov/Dec? Or Mayen will be a starter at either the 3 or 4 dependent on the next import.

Would be nice if the media asked this question in the presser with the GM.

Sounds like 1 import is a week or so away and a PG will be a while away.

It's not always the best players, it’s the best team, the JJs have proven that and Gleeson at cats as well.

I've said for weeks the Sixers will only have 2 imports but some fans scoffed...

Having Griscti, Starling and Rogini all on full contracts is not ideal imo. Very shallow front court.

"As I have said before they will be running with 2 imports until November or so awaiting the Aussie 4 that could be available.

If that doesn't come off then an import will be slotted in."

This perplexes me. What's the aim here? Two absolute stud imports? Do Adelaide think they can pull a Perth and sign someone special midway through and cruise to a top 4 spot?

This team needs to nail 3 spots just to even remotely be in the top 4 conversation IMO.

Waiting until November or whatever to have a sufficiently capable team is a waste of time because they won’t be able to dig themselves out of the hole they will end up being in.

Isnt Thon Makers contract ending in November?

Hey but MaxM the 36er faithful get their local content that they scream for :)

Where is thon maker playing, which league finishes in November?. Does he make Sixers into premiership team or even finals team?

Report tonight that the Crows and Power were trying to sign Ben Griscti as a Cat B rookie.

Also saying he's re-joining Sturt for the rest of the NBL1 season too.

i mean djv and isaac would be marquees so they probably were handcuffed for two imports anyway

To be honest, based on what I've seen of Thon Maker lately (mostly his time in Green and Gold), I'm not sure he's a guaranteed starter let alone impact player in the NBL.

Just announced JJs have signed Jordon Crawford on a one year deal. That is 10 of 11 roster spots filled.

The Cairns Taipans have signed import guard Rob Edwards on a one-year deal, he's a 6'5 SG with plenty of G-League time and 2 NBA games for OKC

Quoting Olgun on the marketplace - anyone know who the 'big European kid' is that Perth are looking at as a next star?

Anyone got any info on which teams might sign Roman Siulepa? He has looked like an impressive young big in NBL1!

Drexler - my best guess would be Izan Almansa. Spanish 6'10 big man who played for G-League ignite last year.

Last season apparently was choosing between Next Stars/Ignite so clearly is interested. He also played with Alex Sarr at Overtime Elite 2 years ago.

Didn't have an amazing season at Ignite, was a projected top 10 going into the season as he had a phenomenal junior career, MVP at the FIBA U17 world cup AND u19 world cup as well I think (or might've been European championships).

Now is unsure about getting or drafted or not, wouldn't be surprised if he withdraws and joins Perth. Seems to fit the mold.

Anyone got any info on which teams might sign Roman Siulepa? He has looked like an impressive young big in NBL1!

On market place yesterday, they suggested Emmet Naar was in fine form in nbl1 north and his stats look very ok, certainly on assists, deserves another shot, Travers more than likely not returning, White more than likely to play but still a chance of not being there, Moller just about back to training and offers, enquires from Aus and OS, Hunter the most unlikely to not play as had good season at kings finished with good performance in Latvia. Creek should play because him Sobey and Walton jnr chance of winning it all and Creek would want to be in that.

Lachy Reid reporting Perth are/were close with Izan Almansa, but he's now staying in the draft. Still a chance to come if he doesn't get picked.

Called it.

Any chance of a draft and stash MaxM?

That's what I was initially thinking, Lachy seemed to be saying the opposite, that he's more of a chance if he doesn't get drafted. Not sure

DJ Newbill, mvp in b league, wasn't he at Cairns with Kelly, could be the wing SEM are chasing. .

Newbill ain't coming back if bleague MVP = $$$

You are right, Newbill staying in Japan, Franks and Soares released at present from their clubs.

Good press conference with Scott Roth about the JJs roster
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oiCk5tp-5gI

Breakers put something on social media saying they've got 'a week of announcements on the horizon'. Coach? Imports? Both?

Delaney signed in B-2 Japan, even B-2 must be paying very well.

Not sure Delaney delivers enough in the NBL for his salary. In Japan B2 you can be a hero against lower grade opponents but not in the NBL. Ryse Vague is a good example of a long term Japan player that is pretty average over here.

My observation of Nik Kaye in the last international tournament series, was his overall game has declined since joining Japan, you could see he was a step below his NBL peak at the Wildcats.

5 more years of HJs

Just saw on the news that Izan Almansa has withdrawn from the NBA draft so hopefully Wildcats next star is a done deal, looks the goods.

Brandt and Soto back to b2 in Japan . Again it obviously isn't the strongest comp but the money must be good, b1 must be top,top dollar.

The South East Melbourne Phoenix have signed 2x NBL Champion Tom Vodanovich on a one-year deal.
via (Michael Randall)

No better than Vague, strange decision imo, certainly if Vague got a pay out. I suppose that they think the big three will be getting most of the minutes anyway.

Vodanovich is seemingly just trying to play for every team in the league at this rate

Better player than Vague who isn't NBL standard but the biggest question mark with Tommy V is probably his attitude. Bounces around so much NZB, Syd, NZB x 2, Tassie now SEM even his stint in the Filo league last year only lasted 5 games. Plus got drunk and caused some trouble on a flight the first time with NZB. He was a member of that first Kings title team in 2022 though.

SEM have signed all their locals now just two import spots left.

If he could settle down somewhere he has potential to be a very solid bench piece, maybe that'll happen at the Phoenix

I can't work vodanovic out. When playing lower leagues he looks a solid bench player for nbl but whenever he's got his opportunities the shots have stopped dropping and his passing ceases up. Unlikely to get minutes at SEM anyway I think

So local changes are , Vague, Terangi, Gak and Moller gone. Replaced by Hunter, Sobey, Vadonavic and Glover. Certainly looks better, though I'll miss one of my blue collar favourites.

Alan Williams signs in Korea.

Are SEM signing Sobey and Creek as marquees or just one?

Creek not coming back, he's busy eating cupcakes in Puerto Rico!

I would not think Sobey would be a marquee, Creek more than likely but his last season on his latest contract could be his smallest salary, who knows but SEM look a basket case compared to JJs.

Superfan is correct.

I've heard the rumours but I don’t believe it.

Just watching Isiah Moore tearing it up again in the NZ NBL. He's got to be on the radar as a bench guard for a few NBL teams. High IQ player with a great range of skills and good percentages. Would be great to keep him downunder!

There's some really nice talents over in NZ. Thoroughly enjoyed watching NZNBL this year, helped cure the NBL drought.

Interesting to see CJ Bruton's son still trying out with the 36ers for a DP spot. Probably went from a guaranteed thing to a "picked on merit" thing once CJ got fired though.

Darnell Mee's son Micale Mee trying out too, not sure if anyone here has seen him play in the NBL1 or not this year.

Agree word14... the league has improved our of sight which means it's time for them to tinker with it and screw it up for another 7 years!

Let's hope not lol, aside from adding the Queenstown team next season they shouldn't change a thing at the moment. The addition of the rapid league this season has been great

Right on cue, Tauranga and Franklin play out the game of the year!

The addition of the rapid league this season has been great

I prob would've been a naysayer too perthworld but now I've seen it in action it's a great way to see the depth on the squad play and allows more competition with squads too

I watched a handful of rapid league games and maybe it was just bad luck on my part, but the level of play was a small step above socials.

AngusH, I've watched a fair few rapid league games and it's a bit of a mixed bag. Some games are pretty scrappy and terrible, but there's also been some really fun fast paced shootouts which have gone down to the wire.

Lost in the news of the draft today, but the Wildcats have signed Izan Almansa as a Next Star now

^ very nice to have him locked in.

Now for a good Usher upgrade ...

Article on Almansa

Izan Almansa, regarded as one of the greatest ever youth players in international basketball, has chosen the NBL Next Stars program as his pathway to the NBA.

Almansa follows the footsteps of No. 2 NBA Draft pick, Alex Sarr, in joining the Perth Wildcats.

The 19-year-old participated in this year's NBA Draft Combine but decided to withdraw from this year’s draft and build his stock for 2025.

The 6’10 forward/centre, who hails from Murcia, Spain, possesses a 7’1 wingspan and is an impact player on both ends of the floor.

He'll been better than Sarr was for the Cats

Can he be our first #1 pick?

I doubt he'll become a high draft pick, game is suited for FIBA not NBA.

6'10 bigs with limited shooting and mobility whose strengths are post-finishing and IQ don't go in the top end of the draft anymore.

Would be shocked if he becomes a top 5 pick.

JJs sign Brody Nunn as a DP. Just 1 DP spot left to fill now.

who in the heck is Brody Nunn??

A very good young player.

Hogg signed at Chiba jets in Japan. B League is getting stronger and stronger. Nbl might need salary caps raised to compete.

Jarred Bairstow has signed a 1 year deal with Brisbane, filling out their last local spot.

Brisbane need some quality imports, though they have Prather and Scott already, so as it stands import. Scheuler is going to need to Scot Roth mark two with that roster.

That's a full 11 man roster for the Bullets now although the NBL have excluded Shannon Scott from the roster pending his formal release. Assuming as expected Scott will be replaced by another import then the Aron Baynes era has now come to an end.

This Brisbane roster doesn't fill me with a whole heap of confidence to be honest, unfortunately can’t see them going far at this stage

Bullets are taking the piss even further before their move to the Entertainment Centre.

It certainly looks a sparse roster but ninety percent of us said same about JJs a few seasons back.

My favourite Bairstow stat is that in his 100+ game career he's attempted just one 3 pointer (and missed!). Even most 7 footers have tried more than that!

Classic.

Adnam headed to the taipans on a 2 year deal

I see Mitch Creek is playing for Vancouver in Canada, looks like playing finals, excellent stats, can not see him back for preseason training till early September.

Dont need to worry about pre season if you're not playing the regular season

I like adnam signing with the taipans. It means there's no chance him signing for us!

Peter Hooley reporting from Vegas several NBA teams are talking to Zylan Cheatham, who's playing for the Nets. 'Watch this space' he claims

Remember the name James Batemon he might be headed to brisbane

I liked cheatham for the Breakers but he seemed to get dragged away from playing to his power forward strengths. It could have been the coaching I'll never know but hopefully we'll get to see him in the nbl again sometime

@superfan, if he's not playing, why hasn’t SEM told the punters? If you are buying season tickets on Creek being there and he doesn’t front, surely you would be entitled to a refund.

Not sure if that's true, although I have no idea what NBL teams' refund policies look like. Technically not different from McVeigh, and with NBA out-clauses in some contracts there is always the chance that other guys (Magnay) will also end up not on the roster for the coming season, would JJs issue refunds? (Not that JJ fans would ask for them, I'd wager!)

+1 superfan

Brisbane release Shannon Scott, probably the best decision for both parties.

Wonder if they have his replacement lined up or if they're searching at summer league. In any case he's going to need to be really good for the Bullets to be any sort of chance this season.

Even without the Scott replacement in yet the Bullets roster is just too ordinary. At this stage they've pretty much just swapped out Sobey for Deng Adel which is a big downgrade given how bad he was with the Hawks and then they've gone and signed two genuine 11th men in Smith-Milner and Bairstow. You can carry one guy like that but not blow two roster spots on those types.

It's really difficult to see what the Bullets are doing other than crossing their fingers and hoping Deng Adel lives up to his potential and Prather's knees grow back.

I just wanna say i said that above Batemon

You did indeed, good call. Looks solid

I've heard again now that breakers signed donte Grantham. Hard to believe it's true considering he doesn't seem to be the big or ball handler that koponen said he wanted but it's been posted repetitively so might be true

Think there's now only 3 local spots left (Tassie, Sydney, SEM). Maybe one more depending on what United and Travers/White end up doing.

Key remaining free agents seem to be:

Mangok Mathiang
Craig Moller
DJ Mitchell
Cam Gliddon
Reuben Te Rangi
Corey Webster
Kyle Zunic
Aron Baynes

I think Baynes resigned in Brisbane. Moller should go to JJs, he'd suit Roths system down to the ground. Mathiang could get the gig at the five though.

Fairly sure Baynes hasn't resigned?

Not sure if you mean re-signed, as in he signed again or resigned as in he quit.
I heard/read that he is Baynes longer a Bullet, and that Bullet's roster is (apparently) full now.

I thought Baynes has signed to play this season at bullets.

Baynes is no longer a bullet

From latest article

Roster spots left: Complete

Contracted players: Josh Bannan, Sam McDaniel, Rocco Zikarsky (Next Star), Tyrell Harrison, Isaac White, Mitch Norton, Casey Prather (import), Deng Adel, Tohi Smith-Milner, Keandre Cook (import), Kye Savage (DP), Josh Kunen (DP), Tristan Devers (DP), Jarred Bairstow, James Batemon (import)

Baynes has been linked to New Zealand, Cairns & Retirement.

It would be funny if he hooked up with Forde in Cairns lol

NZ's interest was pre Kopenen so unsure if they are still looking at Baynes with only one local roster spot left.
Anzac Risetto is available and a Kiwi if they're looking to add Front Court depth otherwise Ruban TeRangi at SF being as Sam Mennenga is the lone New Zealander on this Breakers roster as it stands.

Plus their 3 DPs, all of whom have had very solid seasons in the NZNBL

Carlin Davison seems to have the biggest upside of the 3x NZ DP's, super athletic.
Would love to see him continue his upward trajectory.

Agreed, he's put together a stellar campaign

Rossetto maybe but please not te rangi. His slide has been eye opening and he barely performed for the tall blacks which in the past he always managed to deliver

Would love to see them lure Hyrum Harris home. Such a great team player

But first and foremost they need high output SG and SF imports

Roth saying McVeigh and potentially Magnay going to nba, also saying next man up mentality. Worked in there first season but it's certainly removed them from favourites imo. It’ll be interesting to see who they bring in, not lot of local fives and fours out there.

I could see maybe DJ Mitchell or even Moller as a potential replacement for McVeigh with the possibility Drmic could even step up. Magnay would be very tough to replace unless willing to cut an import if not a Mathiang maybe throw Baynes a lifeline huge risk though.

JLA staying in the league and signing with JJ's would be quite a coup but doesn't strike me as a Roth type of player.

I've though Mathiang could be a good JJs player, great energy

Is Mitchell a Roth type player, bullets certainly haven't gone out their way to keep him. Moller would be perfect, just don’t see it happening.

Mitchell probably isn't either I remember him supposedly blasting then Bullets coach James Duncan at training and got suspended for a while. But beggars can't be choosers and the reality is the JJ's aren't going to be as good without McVeigh so Roth is probably going to have to lower his standards and sign one knucklehead type like a Mitchell or a Baynes if Magnay goes too.

All being kept very quiet but announcement could be any time. JJs seem to like announcements on Thursdays. Hope it is Moller too. JJs were reportedly in conversation with him during free agency in 2023. Mathiang was also linked to JJs early in free agency this year. The contract will reportedly have an out clause though to allow for the return of McVeigh if things don't work out during the Rockets pro rating and pre season. Not sure how Moller would feel about that. Moeller would be a keeper for me going forward into 2025. Hope they are thinking that way too. He would be a great fit.

Nice seeing Moller to JJs gain traction amongst everyone else

Different player to McVeigh but would be an excellent fit, can score but defensively can guard one to five.

Gleeson coaching at Chiba jets in Japan.

Chiba play in the second division.

Not Chiba jets, they play in div one, Cooks team from last season, Hogg signed there already. Very strong club, had the German national coach signed but he walked away from his contract and Gleeson came in. The side is finalised already, be interesting to see if he makes changes. German national coach is a Canadian, rumours that he's walking into the coaching job at Bayern Munch, biggest money club in Germany, euro league team, budget of about 50 million, big for Germany but not that big in euro league.

NZ have apparently signed Freddie Gillespie 6.10" Centre with 7.5” wingspan as their second import.
He was second in the Euroleague for Block percentage last season.

PJC* / McCarron / McNauaght (DP)
? / King
? / Bairstow / Carlin (DP)
Bolden / Anticevich / Darling (DP)
Gillespie* / Mennenga / Pineau

One local spot an Import and a Next Star still to be announced.

I'm not liking that breakers roster with this import signing mystro. Can't see where the scoring will come from and the hole at SG and SF is scary. To waste an import spot on another big averaging two points is beyond me

Neither am I and if NZB are going to cheap out on their roster as it appears they're doing I would've thought it would be prudent to put a few more Kiwi's on the roster, just Mennenga and King so far.

You would've thought they could find a spot for one of Te Rangi, Dan Fotu or even Timmins.

In previous years we've been guard heavy and struggled when our primary big has got in foul trouble.
I like the front court depth and the defensive presence Gillespie adds.

Yes we potentially need some more scoring and another SG and SF but those positions are likely to be covered by the Next Star & last Import.

Not sure where they have cheaped out Zodiac?

Brought back an MVP candidate Import in PJC.
Bought out Sam Mennenga's contract from Cairns.
Signed an Import big with NBA & Euro League experience.
Lured Jonah Bolden from Sydney.

Yes the Anticevich & Bairstow signings are likely "cheap" as is Pineau but they are also likely to all be playing off the bench.

Breakers will need a good next star or last local signing to be good.

Anticevich is a New Zealander as well isn't he. Not certain he’d be that cheap either, left a German team after a reasonable season. Hopefully Pineau gets a chance, he’d be good at SEM behind Hunter.

No Anticevich is an Australian, born in Sydney.
Mennenga is the lone kiwi in this main playing group so far, all 3x DP's are kiwi's.

I wouldn't look to a next star to be part of the scoring equation. Basically whatever you do get from them is a bonus and defensively they can struggle (which is understandable).

It's not the players I don't like it's the balance of the squad.

Very bare in spot up shooters which is crazy with PJCs drive and kick style.

Hopefully I'm proven wrong but it just doesn't look like a well compiled roster and I can't see one import signing change that

Bolden and Mennenga while not being spot up shooters certainly shoot it from outside a lot, Anticevich also. My biggest concern is defence with this team.

In terms of Kiwis on the roster, doesn't Mojave King count?

Mojave King's the other Kiwi on the roster.

Mystro,

PJC would be expensive but I think that would be about it so far. Gillespie averaged just 3 ppg & 2.7 rpg in 51 games last season and at 6'9"/6'10" not sure he would be able to command big money. Bolden was a bust at Sydney, Goorj obviously wasn't interested so he needs to go somewhere he can play to try and keep his career going. McCarron similar circumstances. Not sure Mennenga would've been on much to buy out at a poor team like Cairns, first contract out of college too. Mojave would be desperate to play too and has been getting peanuts in the G-League.

Apparently mojave king declared for Australia which is why he's not being counted as a kiwi

Agree dunkman that bolden and menninga will shoot but not at a rate that I would build a game plan around. Same with anticevich or king

I wonder if Mantas could return to NZ for his second year as a Next Star if nothing happens on the NBA front?

It'd be great if we actually knew the Next Star criteria.

^^ that is a moving goal post and always has been. There's a reason you won't find the rules anywhere.

Te Rangi signed with JJs.

Interesting, there depth is deep, so probably a good budget signing.

Interesting for both, Te Rangi gets a chance to play senior stateman, play some back up minutes at worst. With Mika V in the coaching ranks and Roth style could prove to be great signing. Not your go to man, but good steady support role

Reuben is at his best when he has a clear role, ala the Tall Blacks. That's something Roth does very well as a coach, will be interesting to see if he can get him to be more consistent, because his best basketball is good.

The new SEM signing matthew hurt looks very good. Could be an upgrade on creek?! I think roster wise they're leading the pack

Gary Clarke officially signed in Japan.