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Earlier this year
Wildcats sign Dylan Windler
Perth Wildcats' NBL25 roster is complete with the addition of former first-round NBA draft pick Dylan Windler.
The 27-year-old, who was drafted with pick 26 in the 2019 by Cleveland, played five seasons in the NBA, predominantly with the Cavs.
He also had stints with New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers and Atlanta Hawks during his 100-plus game NBA career.
The left-handed Windler has made a name for himself with his high-level three-point shooting, rebounding and athleticism.
Earlier this year, Windler broke the G-League rebounding record with a whopping 33, nine more than the previous best, while playing for Knicks affiliate Westchester.
"Dylan will bring a high level of shot-making to the group," Wildcats head coach John Rillie said.
“Rebounding has been something consistently has shown he can do at a high level for his position.
“Those two traits alone should help the Wildcats.”
"We believe Dylan is an excellent addition to our returning group of players, completing our roster for the NBL25 season,” Wildcats general manager of basketball operations Danny Mills added.
"With five years of NBA experience, his strengths with his perimeter shooting, rebounding from the wing, and athleticism perfectly align with what we were seeking for this final roster spot.
"We’re excited to welcome Dylan and his wife Lauren to Perth and the Wildcats family, and we can’t wait to see the impact he’ll make on the court this season."
Windler said he was first in touch with coach Rillie during the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, while playing for Atlanta Hawks.
Rillie was over there as part of New Orleans Pelicans’ coaching setup for the tournament.
“I first met Coach Rillie in Vegas during Summer League.
“He came up to me and expressed his interest in me as a player and what I had to offer to the team after watching our games.
“After that brief encounter, they reached out to my agent and talks continued from there.
Windler said it didn’t take long to learn about the Wildcats’ proud history and winning tradition, something he’s striving to add to.
“I’ve done a little bit of research in the time leading up to my decision, and I quickly noticed the winning tradition that Perth has carried for a long time in the NBL.
“I plan on bringing a winning mentality and work ethic to the team, doing whatever I need to do to help the team succeed.”
Windler is set to arrive in Perth over the weekend and join the Wildcats on their historic trip to Japan.
“Adding Dylan now will allow him to integrate with our team through our 8 preseason games,” Rillie said.
“This will allow him to to be up to speed ahead of our season opener against South East Melbourne Phoenix at RAC Arena on Friday 20 September.”
https://www.wildcats.com.au/news/wildcats-complete-nbl25-roster-with-ex-nba-sharpshooter
