Olgun sounded pretty confident Cotton won't be back. Mentioned the money on offer in Japan would be "life changing". I wonder what the gap vs wildcats offer would be?

Also, I think Pete Hooley was suggesting Josh Bannon to the JJs. Anyone else pick that up? Not heard that one before.

Haven't watched the Marketplace video but I would imagine Flynn Cameron will be highly sought after with Dash Daniel's likely to be getting significant bench minutes. Only getting 10-15 minutes per game and has shown with opportunity he will flourish with a genuine two/way game style.

Do we see much interest in any of the Cairns players off contract?

Imports are maybes but I wouldn't have thought any standouts.

Armstrong will definitely get interest if he stays in Australia, Waardenburg the same with Gak also a decent likelihood.

I'd assume the others will get options taken up (not 100% sure about Stith) if they're not already contracted.

Forde obviously the biggest piece of the puzzle.

Pretty short list of players playing over seas on their list, fair few missing and some real good ones, it seems if you got the right agent you get more attention in nbl. Motum is leading scorer in Japan in side that has hardly won a game, his defence is not nbl level though. Brandt and a few others get you shaking your head.

Cotton joining Trev in Japan seems like a given

Damo, not sure if you watched the Martketplace episode but on Cairns, Olgun mentioned there's a strong chance Tanner Groves returns

Quick google search suggests in 2021 that top level B League get US$1m+.
I can only imagine it's closer to US$1.5m now.

Bit hard to take it seriously when Rucker says on the one hand that JJs need wholesale changes then on the other he would bring back all the locals and Doyle (so no clearing of any local roster spots to bring better balance to the roster). Then Hooley points out roster construction if MacDonald gets injured again and Rucker hasn't thought that through. Then he suggests Delly go to the JJs on his huge money which just isn’t going to happen. Then thinking McVeigh is only contracted to the JJs til 2026 if he returns when it is 2027. Olgun seems the only one with any useful intel like both sides working on Doyle’s return. And that’s just their discussion on one club.

Never gets factored into discussion that a B League regular season is 60 games long. Players deserve to be getting double NBL money for that.

2/3rds of the cash for 1/2 the games in the NBL isn't a bad gig.

They were saying Prather is best value for money import wise as lowest paid import this year. Brisbane will need to pay up if keep.

United can realistically only keep 1 of Delly or Cameron with Daniels coming in.

Yeah okay so even if Perth offered Bryce AU$1.2m(~US750k), US$1.5m in Japan probably covers the downsides of leaving. Shame for the NBL, but understandable.

New marketplace episode

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfcAOm9yyHA

Wonder who the high level import was that elected to stay in pursuit of a 2 way that Olgun was talking about. At least we now know the JJs were trying to bring in someone of that calibre. Roth did mention at the Hummer presser that they had been trying for some time to bring someone else in.

With the money in Asia becoming a issue, does the league look into perhaps adding another two teams (Gold Coast and Canberra) and extending the league by another few rounds to make the league close to 40 games? Most games are sell outs so clearly the demand is there and while the iron is hot it's best to strike

While I watch both episodes, I'm not certain I’m any wiser, just a lot guess work, I suppose that’s part of it. When I talk to a few people I know with their ear to the ground and I mention some of the stuff they laugh at me. Like a most sports now days it’s all part of the hype machine.

It's rumoured Delly is chasing big coin.

If so, let him go and use the cash for keeping Ili and Cameron, and upgrading Ian Clark to someone like a Rayjon Tucker, Casey Prather

Does anyone actually want to focus on this yet? 3 games to go for some teams and the top 6 far from settled.

For someone who's career earnings is over $45 million (minus tax, agents etc), Delly must have had some pretty bad investment advice if he's chasing an extra hundred grand or so. Granted, that's a lot of money, but in the scheme of things surely he'd want a competitive team and playing time.

Agreed, if Delly won't accept a pay cut I’d be moving him on. The team balance hasn’t been great at United imo, too old and unauthentic (excluding White). Replacing Delly with a genuine scoring point guard and Lee with a legit import center (Alan Williams type) would be a much more dangerous lineup.

PG: Davis / Ili
SG: Goulding / Daniels
SF: Cameron / Krebs
PF: White / Bowen
C: A Williams / Loe

Williams doesn't play D anywhere near good enough for Vickerman.

Seems to be the general consensus that Forde won't be back for Cairns. If true, that will be a big loss.

Maybe. If they picked up someone like coach Kop then I think they would do all right.

Maybe, though I'd have thought we need a talent ID/recruitment coach.

Kerry Williams might be a fantastic coach and has plenty of assistant experience, but I just can't envisage him communicating and selling the plan/idea to players when recruiting like Forde has done. But I don't know him so maybe I'm wrong.

Relieved to hear on Marketplace about a Tacko Fall departure for the Breakers. While the situation is more complicated that 'Tacko = losing streak', his playing style certainly doesn't fit the mid-2020s NBL. Just don't know what the impact of this season will be for a number of the playing group - agree that PJC is gone (Perth would value PJC as a Cotton replacement).

Looks like free agency is going to be based on the following chess pieces:
Delly
PJC
Flynn Cameron
Josh Bannan
Taran Armstrong

would have Bannon, Flyn and Armstrong at the JJs

Maybe 2 of that 3!!

Mccaron is still on court, I'm not certain if playing is the correct terminology.

Assuming the following-relative clean bill of health, mcveigh not coming back, doyle coming back(even though he has dropped off considerably-terrible fg%, bad +-, more turnovers than first two seasons and what seems like an apathy most games to shoot before the fourth quarter) and jc being let go i think the jjs can just retool a couple pieces to be right back in the hunt next season. Use the mcveigh and jc money to put a stupid offer($$$ and years) towards matt hurt from SEM, the dude can flat out score inside and out, rebounds decently and can play 4 or 5, if he doesnt want to come then throw a slightly lower offer at tanner groves. Another 4-5 who can shoot from outside or bang down low, rebounds well and seems like a no nonsense work horse(perfect jackie). Seanny mac will be starting PG so find a solid aussie backup like kyle adnam(good vet who can hit from outside ala weeksy) or maybe throw some extra dollars at flynn cameron with the promise of solid backup pg and sg minutes. Use the other import spot on a solid backup 4-5(like what marcus lee was for us?) or a three and D shooting guard/small forward ala craig sword(was criminally under rated and not given enough court time) who has said he would come back for sure as he loved the club. All we would need from him would be what he was meant to be here for this season. 15mins of disruptive d on oppositions best backcourt player, corner 3s and slashing through the lane when it opens up. Let go of walter brown(full contract player this coming season and doesnt appear to have earned any trust from coaches in last three seasons so let him go explore his options(breakers?), keep fab, drmic, steindl and stoddart as 3rd string pg. Let gak go also as wouldnt be needed with mags, hurt/groves and fab plus possible backup import 4-5. Terangi has been solid sometimes and average at other times so not fussed there. Make a strong push for a young aussie in college like reyne smith or a next star that actually wants to commit to basketball and that is a damn solid team of no BS players who know how to get it done and will work their behinds off to make it happen

Armstrong, Smith, Bannon or Waadenbyrg and an import 4 would just about do it I reckon Scout assuming McVeighs is not back.

If Armstrong came in for JC then you would have JCs money, McVeighs money and Marcus Lees money (if thinking in 23/24 terms) and incremental spend growth. You would think that would be plenty to get all of those over the line.

Having said that I would not like to see Armstrong on huge overs compared to MacDonald. That just wouldn't be fair to MacDonald.

Hurts has got a lot better on D, not certain he's up to Roth standards though. Gak at this stage is a far better option than Krislovic.

FWIW, Bannan and Cameron still have a year to go on both of their contracts. If they're being talked about by NBL comms they might know they're opting out or something.

Josh Bannan, signed a 3 year deal in 2023:

https://www.brisbanebullets.com.au/news/bullets-sign-young-college-star-josh-bannan

Flynn Cameron, also signed a 3 year deal in 2023, mutual option on next season:

https://www.melbourneutd.com.au/news/united-sign-kiwi-dynamo-flynn-cameron

Viewbank - brilliant post - great reading


Please

Please

Please put some paragraphs space in your next post, love your post but damn it is hard to read but you have really useful stuff in there


Thanks!

Love your post Viewbank116

So no chance Hummer returns for JJs, some experts on here still thinks he does ok.
And would Houston still keep McVeigh next season, done ok in gleague but with Houston being a surprise he's not had much chance with rocket's. They've said they're staying pat at trade deadline, but they've suddenly got a chance at a title, do they make a move and McVeigh somehow gets packaged in for salary? If they get playoff Jimmy for cheap they'd need to get some salary matching together. Pity for Tassie it couldn't have happened sooner if he'd gotten waived immediately.
Cameron is probably in that inbetween spot of being a great backup but not quite being a great starter. Could bet on himself and go to Cairns and prove himself there and cash in later after a good year or two.

this for the JJ's:

"Armstrong, Smith, Bannon or Wardenburg and an import 4 would just about do it I reckon "

(rights with KL ☺️)

"Please put some paragraphs space in your next post, love your post but damn it is hard to read but you have really useful stuff in there“

My bad, not great in english class-lol.
Will do better next time, thankyou for the great constructive feedback and kind words

AussieHoopla has been updated for 2026 free agency for all clubs.

Last year was on the money with a lot of the moves.

For JJs:

Says Reyne Smith expected to sign.

Crawford unlikely to return.

WMW, Delly and Cotton linked as the replacement PG. Says only the JJs, United and the Kings are capable of signing Cotton if he stays in the NBL and departs the Cats. Olgun Uluc also mentioned the JJs and United on marketplace.

Surely WMW staying in Europe. Just can't believe either of Cotton or Delly either.

JJ's wouldn't be reckless enough to pay Cotton the money he wants. I know they only have Magnay, Deng, Macdonald and maybe Gak under contract for next season so plenty of room just don't see Roth considering it.

I can believe Delly big time. He was the guy the JJ's tried to get to be the face of their franchise when they were first coming into the NBL. They were talking to him hard the season before when he was in Cleveland. Then Delly turned around and signed that massive deal with United instead so JJ's pivoted tried to land Nick Kay he signed in Japan instead so then settled for Magnay.

Given Delly's prior relationship with the JJ's and being so close to Melb I thought they would be the favs to get Delly even though I've said I would love the Sixers to get him to replace KD.

Zodiac, IMO, Cotton is close to exactly what Roth would like in his team. "Seems" absolutely loyal, and, obviously,can shoot the lights. Cotton's advantage, his scoring, every night.

Delly too, on all counts. Where I believe Delly has the advantage is his team-first attitude and (probably his price).

Was going to finish with agreement that Delly is the better choice for JJ's.

Anyone feel like the NBL may have a shot at Patty Mills next season? He will be 37 in august so i think hard pressed to find an offer in the NBA you would think, especially with his ever lowering fg % and struggles on the defensive end.
That said he would be a massive coup for our league and would probably fit in seamlessly for any team. You would think the usual suspects would get first crack, kings, united(if delly leaves as some rumours suggest) and wildcats.
I feel like united or sydney would be the best bet and slightly favour sydney due to the goorj and bogut connection plus their supposed need for another guard.
The league would surely throw some sort of ambassador money at Patty to make this happen and you would think the club he went to gives him 3 years plus possibly an ownership stake ala bogut.
Would be a nice way to finish his career i think, playing 20-25 mins per game instead of languishing at the end of a bench and helping push the game in this country.

Agreed with all the above Viewbank, would love to see the great man end his career down under

I could see Mills in the NBL for sure. Doesn't seem to have much interest in the NBA at this point and doesn't get much playing time. Would come down here and be the biggest thing in the league if he played. Definitely would put Sydney and Melb United at the front of the queue for him.

Given that he would have made a bit of money by now, he might not go for the highest bidder. Might he go to Cairns to be nearer the Tiwi Islands and to help a struggling program?

Even though Patty spent some of youth growing up in Adelaide (fav team the Crows, fav player Andrew McLeod) after the Mitch Creek thing happened he was in Adelaide a few years back to launch some shoe or something and said he'll never play for the Sixers, so probably rules him out with Adelaide lol

Any chance the league rushes through the gold coast expansion franchise and sets Patty up there?
I know the new stadium isnt ready for another 3 years or so but could they justify pushing through the license and playing somewhere in the interim by having Patty as the face of the franchise?
I think more likely Sydney still though, big market and connections would be hard to say no to.
Hoopie, that would be an absolutely amazing move by Patty and a brilliant story for the league and the taipans plus a great situation for the cairns community. It would surely only serve to drive more fans to the game, more kids playing the game there and hopefully sponsors lining up to hand dollars over

Zodiac, Ingles has said similar, so that doesn't surprise me at all. I think he'd want to be in a bigger market/better city anyway.

The Breakers long-time clown GM Matt Walsh is saying PJC might not be back next season because he doesn't "trust" the NBL!

https://nbl.com.au/news/where-will-pjc-land-next-season

Can you believe the cajones on this guy? Hey champ him not wanting to come back might have a bit more to do with you destroying a 7-3 team with you're Tacko Fall obsession. 3-15 since well done.

If I were PJC I would be getting away from this clown too. Olgun says he thinks PJC will probably at another NBL team next season, so not a league issue then lol

NZ need to go back to hiring a kiwi coach and getting as many kiwi players on the team as possible. That's when they're at their best.

I remember when Walsh, Marion & Co. took over the Breakers there was a mass exodus of Kiwi's behind the scenes too guys like Vukona and Boucher left and Henare quit as coach.

Last season Finn Delany, Izayah Le'afa, Tom Abercrombie, Dan Fotu and Dom Kelman-Poto all left. Now on the roster they just have Mennenga and Darling and Max was born in the Carribean, one true Kiwi. Once again Walsh, well done.

Max Darling isn't a true Kiwi because he was born in the Carribean??

Breakers should try and buy Walter Brown out of his Tassie contract, could be a win-win for both clubs: NZ get a young promising local, JJs free up a guard spot to resign Nick Stoddart

Amazing the impact that PJC will make, whatever his choice. He'll be announcing how he feels about NZ Breakers' management.

If he chooses to stay with NZ Breakers, he approves of (or at least, is ok with) the Tacko (and any other) issue(s).

If he chooses elsewhere (in the NBL) it's a GF (no, not a "Grand Final") to NZ management.

PJC linked to the Cats and Bullets according to Aussie Hoopla.

KL, I am not really sure what to make of that FA tracker just yet. Lots of the names are just continous from last season. Basically everyone is interested in everyone. I wouldn't read too much into FA echo just yet, but could be wrong.

Wouldn't surprise me if Cotton goes to Japan to play under Gleeson for a big payday and the Wildcats get PJC as his replacement.

Agreed MC, not reading too much into it either. Last free agency though a lot of moves were posted on there as definite a few days ahead of anything from Olgun Uluc, the NBL and the clubs. Has access to legit info from somewhere.

Can't help but feel PJC will either be at the Wildcats, or not in the league.

I can't see pjc staying in the league but if he does I'd guess it's in sydney which would be most suited to continuing his music career/hobby

Would love Mills to go to Cairns similar to Jawais ambassador program. And might be advantageous for his wife's business as well. If he gets subsidised then the snakes could afford to put a more financially competitive team out there, which the NBL would want.
And the conflict with LK and the league if Delly somehow goes to Tassie is interesting, especially if offered some ownership package. He'd go from a team owned by Larry, to another team essentially owned by Larry. United might not want to pay Delly, but to save a bit of face with the fans can move him onto JJ'S with the league getting back money from Delly if he buys in. So much smoke and mirrors with Larry talking up the NBL yet having a finger in so many teams pies.

KL, sorry, didn't mean to sound patronising or anything like that.

I wonder if not NBA bound?

"I have a lot of tickets for that game and I'll have a lot of people there," Armstrong said.

"I love playing down there and it will be another game whether they're out of contention or whatever is happening with them.

"But either way I get to play basketball and playing basketball at home in front of people I love is really cool."

McVeigh has just been called back up from g league buy rockets I can't see him coming back next season

Prather resigns with Brisbane for another season

If true great move, hopefully he didn't screw them over to much but with Ariana doing a good job it all makes sense. The club is rewarded for giving him a chance.

McVeigh reportedly wants to stay at the Rockets next season. However a two way is meant to be like a DP and if after watching and evaluating him for a whole season they are still not playing him then what if a younger player with the same skill set comes along. At his age McVeigh may need to progress to a full roster to stay on.

If things go pair shape in Adelaide, Sydney should target local boy Humphries

That play just then. Harrell complaining about the foul when he could have gotten the O board. Just little things like that.

Kl it might not be with Houston but I think McVeigh has shown enough that he will get a go some where they love shooters over there

McDaniel signs a new 2 year deal with Brisbane. Bullets seem to be locking away players early

Great news, word14. Love it. I rate McDaniel very highly. Watched a whole season of him with the Caps (NBL1) and some of his previous season with the Bullets. He missed all of this season due to shoulder injury' His re-inclusion in the roster is fantastic and a 2 year deal, after injury, shows that all are happy with his recovery. Imagine another "Prather-like" recovery with another stunning return to action.

Next, I want to read that Cook is committed to next year. This import threesome (with Prather and Batemon both already committed for 2025/26)is worth more as a whole than the sum of its parts (did I get that right?).

The final piece is for Bannon's commitment for next year(his option). Secure that and the Bullets are nearly ready for (next) pre-season.

Might want to tweak the bench with a back-up 5 for Harrison as Rocco is NBA bound(?). Maybe a Callum Dalton or Harry Froling back into the roster. Both are definitely BIG, still developing, already know the league, already know the Bullets and either (or both) would be budget priced.

Surprised by this, though. Bullets announced their big, post-season review. I really love the moves that are being made but would it not be wise to wait for that review? In fact, with so much "stability" throughout the roster and coaching staff(?), what will a review that recommends serious changes achieve? Hmmm!

Whatever, I for one, won't be blaming the team, LOL.

Just heard a Scott Roth interview on sen said McVeigh has some big offers in Europe and Japan so is very unlikely to come back to Australia even if he doesn't get nba opportunities next year

Any word on what's expected with KD? Not sure why but I thought there's a chance breakers could throw pjc's offer his way and land him... assuming pjc turns it down

this Lance Stephenson talk is getting old pretty quick

apologies, wrong thread, though still somewhat applicable on this one!

Cadee has retired.

JC5 shirts have just soared up in value.

So, for you. step 2, will be to Step One. Sounds like a backward step but I hope that it goes just as well as your basketball career.

Great career. Good on ya for picking your own time. Too soon for a lot of us. Good luck to you and your family.

Aussie Hoopla 'free agency tracker' has just been updated.

JJs related includes:

Doyle expected to sign with either JJs or MU. Haven’t heard that one before.

Tarran Armstrong linked to JJs.

Josh Bannan linked to JJs or MU if he leaves Bullets.

Caveats as per previous post discussion.

And Kings related:

Linked to Kendric Davis.

Now, I understand the tracker is managed by someone close to the Kings.

That would give Goorj his other ball handler!

The Bullets have sacked Justin Schueller.

"JJs related includes:

Doyle expected to sign with either JJs or MU. Haven't heard that one before.

Tarran Armstrong linked to JJs.

Josh Bannan linked to JJs or MU if he leaves Bullets."

I was of the understanding that when the jj's tried to recruit Tarran previously he was told he would have to earn his spot but cairns offered him the reins/starting PG spot straight up. Thus his choice to go there instead.

This turned the jj's off of him as this was in direct contrast to their culture and philosophies of team first and humble and hungry.
Will be interested to see if the rumour mill proves correct here or not. I see him trying OS(nba and Europe) until there is absolutely no shot at latching on then maybe a return to the NBL would be his choice.

Either way I think JC is gone(unless comes back super, super cheap), we sign a 1-2 backup import as Macca will be starter, Doyle will return(no chance he goes to MU unless we offer him heaps less/dont want him-I think we do want him), then they go get a strong 4-5 import(regardless if mcveigh comes back or not). I dont think Bannan would be the player they need/want(seems like a low ceiling type of player and maybe a poor mans Mcveigh).

I am excited to see its all starting to kick off now though with the rumours and coaching changes. Keeps the NBL relevant for things other than the actual games which is always a good thing, plus takes away some of the spotlight on the x.cooks stuff.

Bannan is a poor man's Nick Kay who is only going to get better. After his time in Perth I think that could be pretty attractive to Roth.

I've heard similar regarding Scott Roth potentially turning down the opportunity to sign Taran because he didn't think he would fit the culture

Roth signed his brother though.

Which ended up being nothing

The way Forde told the story was that he signed Armstrong before Roth even had the chance to talk to him. But Armstrong would have understood the deal were he sign to with the JJs.
( earn your spot etc.). I think Radford and Roth were on record as saying they were having talks with both boys at the time. There is no doubt he would play big minutes under Roth now. Rotating MacDonald , Armstrong and Doyle through the 1 and 2 has obvious appeal along with Reyne Smith potentially being part of that too.

It's nearly more exciting than the season as we all think we are experts and who’s good or bad or can and can’t coach. ::::))))))))

Yeah, I think Tassie core is mostly good. I just think they need to get their third import right, upgrade Jordan Crawford to a bigger guard.

If they can get Armstrong or Bannan that changes the import needs...



I hope United throws a bag at Waardenburg, gets a bigger version of Ian Clarke, a 3/4 how can score, and figures out which of the guards are staying…

No doubt Roth signed Taran's brother to try and get to Taran. Oldest trick in the book the Bullets did the same with Baynes' brother and Cam Bairstow's brother, the first time around.

When is the boomers job getting announced, maybe someone is coming back, Weaver would be fantastic pick up for club and country.

Viewbank 116 Armstrong was keen to sign in Tassie it wasn't so much getting promised starting minutes the issue was the jumpers only wanted to sign him as a next star similar to Sydney with tooey, cairns were offering a full roster spot which he obviously couldn’t knock back. From my understanding apparently Roth has met Armstrong a couple times during the season very high chance he is in Tasmania next year

Zodiac TRE Armstrong was a very decent talent in his own right had strong college form would have been at worst a good nbl role player has had mental health issues with is unfortunate

Yeah they signed him as a DP and then he backed out of the contract.

Possibly with Scheuller departing as HC, Bannan will now be looking elsewhere.

Bannon is on 3rd of 3yr deal with a mutual option.

Keandre Cook is a Free Agent.

I hope both re-sign.

I understood with Tre it was just burnout with basketball. Just wanted to travel and do something else for a while.

"From my understanding apparently Roth has met Armstrong a couple times during the season very high chance he is in Tasmania next year"

I know they have kept in contact with Tre at the very least but not sure how he fits with us as cannot be a DP anymore and wouldn't think he is on another level compared with Stoddart who already has runs on the board for us.
But if signing Tre gets Tarran over the line you maybe do it, but does that start to chip away at the culture built and proven to lead to success.

Armstrong, Mcdonald and Doyle makes for a crowded backcourt in my eyes as all like to have the ball in their hands. I know Macca can work off-ball but is very good at creating his own when he has it plus sets up MD off screens and the bigs for lobs nicely. I just don't see macca going back to the bench after everything roth has said.

To be fair those three(if healthy) plus a barely used 3rd string pg(stoddart?) is plenty enough for the back court when drmic can slide over to the 2 spot as well if needed. Which frees up an import spot to use on a really good 4 man(would be nice if could slide down to sf or up to the 5 spot) plus maybe a nice back up import centre(would love M.Lee again).
I think the perfect player for us is Matt Hurt(can only get better on defense under roth surely) and next best option is Tanner Groves(only needs to play 20mins per game so foul issues not an issue) if talking about already in the league type of players.
While I wouldn't mind Alan Williams(seemed like a top bloke, always talked up tassie when he was at SEM and wants back in the league) as a backup centre for his scoring ability his defense is probably too much for even the jjs to work around, although as a backup against other bench centres maybe it doesn't matter.
If we got a hurt/groves(players that can play four or five) type we could then spend on an import small forward and in that case a next level craig sword would be a great(hyper focused on defense and great 3pt shooter)fit for us, just as roth envisioned with chicken.

I think Tre potentially could come back as a train on player with a view to being an Injury replacement player depending on how he goes and his NBL1 season. I don't think anyone is suggesting he will get a full roster spot. There are probably only 3 full roster spots available for locals and Taran and Reyne Smith potentially take 2 of those with the other maybe a Bannan type. I doubt they will be able to get Reyne Smith as a DP. That leaves a fair bit of flexibility as you say with the imports. Unfortunately, I think Stoddart gets squeezed out too but he may be accommodated in the same way as suggested for Tre. I think only one or the other though. The Bannan talk does make me wonder whether Fab gets squeezed out too but very hard to imagine Roth doing that.

Trez signs in China. Will he be even more of a giant in that league?

https://hoopshype.com/rumor/montrezl-harrell-signs-deal-in-china/

I would hate to see stoddart go somewhere else and thrive which he looks like he is ready to do after all the development we have put into him really need to find a spot for him . I think we jumped the gun signing Walter brown to a full roster spot he hasn't really developed like expected is there an option to just pay him out or ship to the breakers, I think they have to chose between gak or fab they will definitely bring in a 4/5 import

Baller I have had similar thoughts about sending Brown to the Breakers, would be great to free that spot up for Stoddart

"I think we jumped the gun signing Walter brown to a full roster spot he hasn't really developed like expected is there an option to just pay him out or ship to the breakers, I think they have to chose between gak or fab they will definitely bring in a 4/5 import"
I agree, there seems to be no faith there in Walter so try and get out of the deal. Surely NZ would sign him on the cheap to appease the local fan base.

As for the gak v fab i think there is no way they let fab go especially after captain clint has just retired, fab has been a VC the past 2 or 3 seasons so you wouldn't want to lose all that leadership in one off-season. Plus all he has ever done for the jjs is work his behind off, play undersized and give his all every game.

If Brown is a team option then easy. If not he would be on the minimum so they could burn that and let him go. Or, pay him that and talk him into staying on as a DP. DPs only have a salary floor as I understand. Would be very surprised if he is on the full roster even if he were to win the NZNBL MVP or something like that.

Agree Baller, was watching Stoddart in that last game against Cairns and he had gone to another level again and I thought then he is going to be a legit NBL guard one day.

KL, his contract situation is that he'll be moved onto the main roster next season, no option attached. Still won't be on big money though so a buyout should be easy

Just fyi if following the JJs off season.

Reyne Smith has now made his 100th three-pointer of the season In Louisville's 75-60 win at Notre Dame, finished with 12 points on 4-of-11 shooting becoming just the third Cardinal to ever make 100 or more threes in a single season.

Should have added he leads the nation in made 3s and needs to get to 123 to break the all time record for the Cardinals.

Smith-Milner has had Brisbane take up his option

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0EgtUawKsg

Excellent marketplace episode on the coaching carousel

Armstrong just signed a two/way contract with golden state rules him out for the jack jumpers be interesting if they bring Crawford back or head in a different direction

Congratulations Taran. Wrote more on (your) other post.

The success of more NBLer's making the jump to the NBA, makes it harder and harder for any Australian-based player to make (future) Boomers' teams.

Proud as hell for them and our standing in international 'ball, But I just can't afford the price of the tickets (incl air-fares, hotels etc) to see my favourite Ausie players.

[And congrats to Cairns Taipans, too. Not only have you provided one of the best pathways into the NBL (other teams), you have now added the NBA to the list.]

Armstrong just signed a two/way contract with golden state rules him out for the jack jumpers

Not necessarily, when Jaylin Galloway signed with the Bucks late last season I think there was some sort of non-guaranteed second year but the Bucks released him late in the off-season.

Suspect other NBA teams would have moved on Tarran as a 2 way next season in any event and these G league games for the next month or so give him the immensely valuable opportunity to showcase himself to everyone. The Warriors may also have just moved to secure his rights before another NBA club did. Congratulations to him and looking forward to watching his NBA journey.

Drmic's team option taken

Kings and Izzy part ways. Apparently there was a "mutual option", but I don't remember hearing about that when it was signed, so who knows. Solid on-ball defender, but with his shot falling off a cliff this year he was just about unplayable down the stretch.

Angus, where has that been reported?

Lot of talk about Bannon but Peatling would certainly be worth having, Ayre as well.

Tassie decline the Gorjok Gak option for next season

Channel 10 reporting that Doolittle has resigned with Cats for 3 years

https://x.com/10NewsFirstPER/status/1899760951504638210?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet

Best Sheds deal on the side probably helped.

Olgun reporting the Doolittle deal too

Bannan now on FA list after declining his option with the Bullets. In the (recent) past, I have stated that I hoped he would remain a Bullet to keep the core from this last season together. Not to be, it seems, so now the search to replace him starts.

Should the Bullets look for a like-for-like replacement for Bannon, say Motum, or use the vacated spot to strengthen other weaknesses.

Motum should be a priorety as he could take ownership of the 4 spot, or be the 1st "big" sub for Harison(C) and Prather(PF).

Dellavedova (out of contract) would be the prize as starting PG (WMW not avail, yet!).

I'm an idiot. No change in status for Bannon, just misread the article stating that he is "ready for" FA. Sorry folks!

Pinder to China? Dunno if its for remainder or long term

Per Olgun Uluc socials:

"NBL Free Agency begins on April 4, the league says.

Teams can officially sign players from Friday, April 4 at 9am (AEDT). All player/team/mutual options need to be confirmed by Monday, March 31, at 12pm."

Now we look towards this fun stuff

Marketplace episode from a few days ago

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmP6FmHtgNc

Am I right that trey kell is free agent?? He'll have a fair few offers on his table if so

Will be interesting to see who picks up Harry froling. He's looking pretty ordinary but it's difficult to find a half decent local big

Kell's a FA yeah. Not sure Harry gets another look in at NBL level.

Silence is deafening with the number of free agents and no club announcement as yet. I can only think of announcements for Leafa, Bannan, Doolittle, Drmic and Gak. Maybe a lot to be announced this week before the deadline or maybe there will be a lot looking for new clubs in free agency. Anyone heard any of any others?

Options that still need a decision made

Marshall
Rigoni
Kunen
K.Galloway
Stith
Adnam
Higgins-Titsha
Triplett
Yates
Dellavedova
Loe
Cameron
Aliir
S.Bairstow
Fall
Davison
Okwera
Pepper
Gerovich
Sobey
Nunn

And of course there are also many out of contract players yet to resign

Thanks W14.

An awful lot to play out in the next 2 weeks.

Think we have been promised another episode of overtime later this week.

Marketplace, I meant to say

Nunn resigned as DP

Taipans take up the option on AHT, moving to the full roster

Michael Randall reporting the Sobey mutual taken

Taipans take the K.Galloway mutual

Waardenburg signs a 1 year deal to stay in cairns

Damn

NZ would seem like the ideal place for Waardenburg. Especially with the new ownership/direction at the Breakers and the lack of any certainty at Taipans.

What's the problem?

Does Waardenburg know something that I don't?

It could just be that old-fashioned idea of club loyalty, or maybe he likes it up there

Ok, so nothing major. Well, loyalty is major, but no other issues?

Cairns had the problem where the two Sam's (Waardenburg and Mennenga) were taking minutes off each other, and you'd be very hesitant to base your front court around the two of them. Given the commitment to Mennenga and Carlin Davison, the possibility of bringing a local big home (Finn Delany? Isaac Fotu?), there wasn't minutes for Waardenburg.

At the same time, it's great that he found the dollars with the Taipans. Would've thought he could've seen some cash from Perth (given Pinder's departure) or SEM (to run alongside Jordie Hunter)

Waardenburg and Hunter sounds good for SEM. Good point re other big locals avail for NZ, too. Is Wetzell still in the pic?

He could be, but as the second best NZ big man, he may want to chase the Euro dollars. Also, with Mennenga returning, some possibility of Bolden and Delany returning and a high likelihood that Koponen would want a defensive-oriented 5 (ala Freddie Gillespie returning), I don't know how he'd fit in well from a salary/minutes perspective.

Okwera mutual declined

Bit suprised on Okwera, the cats were a bit small this season and he was one of the few bigs that had a decent outside game. They were guard heavy this year and cutting a big is perplexing.

I see leafa leaving kings is official. Always expected but it'll be interesting where he ends up. His shooting woes restricted his ability to earn minutes even though I still think he's one of the best defensive guards in the league. In fact he's right up there with ili so if he can master the role of running point it reduces the dependency on 3pt shooting and he could be highly effective

Cairns would be a good home for him i think. Maybe JJs if they go with one import guard?

Is that Cotton, Pinder and Okwera going/gone?

Complete re-build around Doolittle. He'll have a lot to do (definitely needs a name-change) in the new season.

Anyone with a "so-far" roster for the Wildcats?

Kyle Adnam staying with Cairns.

Jack White and Flynn Cameron both departing MU.

A bit surprised by Jack White's departure especially given the bad run he had in the finals. I would've thought he would come back try and have a better year next season and then look to overseas when his stock has improved.

There might be a marquee big about to land at MU and he's getting out now before his numbers take a dive. Trez did say he might come back to the NBL but at a different team, Sydney have Cooks and MU now have a vacant PF spot to fill. Hardly surprising given the rumours LK was paying at least some of Harrell's salary last season.

King have released a statement on Xavier Cooks and reading between the lines it seems they are keeping him on their roster:

" Hoops Capital has now completed its internal review into the matter and will be working closely with Cooks on a comprehensive wellbeing plan which will support him both on and off the court and assist in his commitment to rebuilding his reputation with our members, fans, sponsors, and community.

We will continue to support Xavier throughout this time and will not be making any further comments."

Fingers crossed Flynn ends up with the Breakers now that Dillon Boucher is running the show and good mates with his old man.

I have read today on other socials that he is definitely Breakers bound. Can't say if legit or not. Might be one of those early announcements on Friday.

NB: Aussie Hoopla had all the big announcements at least the night before last year. No updates at the moment of note though.

I didn't think Okwera got much of a go at Wildcats, best decision for him to have a go elsewhere.

Okwera definitely an interesting guy, I'd like to see him go to Tassie or Cairns and get more of an opportunity. Only 22 and has shown flashes when not buried on the bench.

Yes, imagine the upside Roth could get out of him at just 22. Probably would have got good minutes this year with the injuries the JJs had. Would be a steal if he could be landed as a DP. But maybe Bannan for Fab and Okwera for Gak along with an import 4/5.

S.Bairstow option taken by NZ

HJ Lee takes up his mutual with Illawarra

As per Olgun:

36ers decline Jacob Rigoni's team option

36ers decline Nick Marshall's team option

Taipans decline Dillon Stith's team option

Hawks picked up Hyunjung Lee's team option

Breakers picked up Sean Bairstow's team option

Breakers picked up Carlin Davidson's team option and upgraded him to the roster

Flynn Cameron's mutual option with United has been declined

Wildcats picked up Elijah Pepper's team option

Gerovich Perth option taken

Who?

Olgun tweeting that Sydney, Brisbane and Perth are the 3 teams "heavily pursuing" Matthew Dellavedova this off-season, and Delly will fly to each city to meet with respective front offices. Also mutual interest in a return to United too.

Interesting.

Peatling resigns with Illawarra

https://www.espn.com.au/nbl/story/_/page/TABFY25/nbl-free-agency-list-contracted-players-matthew-dellavedova-sam-froling-jack-white-kendric-davis

=Adelaide
Ben Griscti - Contracted
Isaac Humphries - Contracted
Keanu Rasmussen - Contracted
Dejan Vasiljevic - Contracted


Jason Cadee - Free Agent
Patrick D'Arcy - Free Agent
Kendric Davis - Free Agent
Sunday Dech - Free Agent
Montrezl Harrell - Free Agent
Fiston Ipassou - Free Agent
Tom Kubank - Free Agent
Nick Marshall - Free Agent
Jarell Martin - Free Agent
Lat Mayen - Free Agent
Ngor Nai - Free Agent
Jacob Rigoni - Free Agent

=Brisbane
James Batemon - Contracted
Tyrell Harrison - Contracted
Sam McDaniel - Contracted
Mitch Norton - Contracted
Casey Prather - Contracted
Tohi Smith-Milner - Contracted
Tristan Devers - Contracted (Development Player)
Kye Savage - Contracted (Development Player)


Josh Adams - Free Agent
Deng Adel - Free Agent
Jarred Bairstow - Free Agent
Josh Bannan - Free Agent
Keandre Cook - Free Agent
Callum Dalton - Free Agent
Josh Kunen - Free Agent
Emmett Naar - Free Agent
Isaac White - Free Agent

=Cairns
Kyle Adnam - Contracted
Kyrin Galloway - Contracted
Alex Higgins-Titsha - Contracted
Kody Stattmann - Contracted
Sam Waardenburg - Contracted


Jonah Antonio - Free Agent
Taran Armstrong - Free Agent
Pedro Bradshaw - Free Agent
Tad Dufelmeier - Free Agent
Rob Edwards - Free Agent
Akoldah Gak - Free Agent
Tanner Groves - Free Agent
Jackson Makoi - Free Agent
Dillon Stith - Free Agent
Deshon Taylor - Free Agent

=Illawarra
Dan Grida - Contracted
Tyler Harvey - Contracted
William Hickey - Contracted
Hyunjung Lee - Contracted
Lachlan Olbrich - Contracted
Mason Peatling - Contracted
Wani Swaka-Lo-Buluk - Contracted
Kobe McDowell-White - Contracted (Development Player)
Luca Yates - Contracted (Development Player)


Brad Ballinger - Free Agent
Todd Blanchfield - Free Agent
Darius Days - Free Agent
Sam Froling - Free Agent
Trey Kell III - Free Agent
Kuany Kuany - Free Agent
Zac Triplett - Free Agent

=Melbourne
Chris Goulding - Contracted
Tanner Krebs - Contracted
Dash Daniels - Contracted (Next Star)


Akech Aliir - Free Agent
Campbell Blogg - Free Agent
Kyle Bowen - Free Agent
Flynn Cameron - Free Agent
Ian Clark - Free Agent
Matthew Dellavedova - Free Agent
Joel Foxwell - Free Agent
Shea Ili - Free Agent
Tom Koppens - Free Agent
Marcus Lee - Free Agent
Rob Loe - Free Agent
Jack White - Free Agent

=NZ
Sean Bairstow - Contracted
Max Darling - Contracted
Carlin Davison - Contracted
Tacko Fall - Contracted
Karim Lopez - Contracted (Next Star)
Mitch McCarron - Contracted
Sam Mennenga - Contracted
Kaia Isaac - Contracted (Development Player)
Alex McNaught - Contracted (Development Player)


Grant Anticevich - Free Agent
Jonah Bolden - Free Agent
Parker Jackson-Cartwright - Free Agent
Mojave King - Free Agent
Matt Mooney - Free Agent
Dane Pineau - Free Agent

=Perth
Kristian Doolittle - Contracted
Elijah Pepper - Contracted
Dontae Russo-Nance - Contracted
Jesse Wagstaff - Contracted
Tom Gerovich - Contracted


Bryce Cotton - Free Agent
Hyrum Harris - Free Agent
Michael Harris - Free Agent
Ben Henshall - Free Agent
David Okwera - Free Agent
Keanu Pinder - Free Agent
Tai Webster - Free Agent
Todd Withers - Free Agent
Dylan Windler - Free Agent

=SEM
Owen Foxwell - Contracted
Angus Glover - Contracted
Jordan Hunter - Contracted
Nathan Sobey - Contracted


Ben Ayre - Free Agent
Luke Rosendale - Free Agent
Matt Hurt - Free Agent
Matt Kenyon - Free Agent
Majok Majok - Free Agent
Luke Fennell - Free Agent
Tom Vodanovich - Free Agent
Derrick Walton Jr - Free Agent
Joe Wieskamp - Free Agent

=Sydney
Klairus Amir - Contracted (Development Player)
Shaun Bruce - Contracted
Xavier Cooks - Contracted
Jaylin Galloway - Contracted
Bul Kuol - Contracted
Keli Leaupepe - Contracted
Kouat Noi - Contracted
Tyler Robertson - Contracted
Jason Spurgin - Contracted


Jaylen Adams - Free Agent
Henry Lau - Free Agent
Izayah Le'Afa - Free Agent
Makuach Maluach - Free Agent
Cam Oliver - Free Agent


=Tasmania
Walter Brown - Contracted
Majok Deng - Contracted
Anthony Drmic - Contracted
Sean Macdonald - Contracted
Will Magnay - Contracted
Brody Nunn - Contracted (Development Player)
Archie Woodhill - Contracted (Development Player)


Lachlan Barker - Free Agent
Jordon Crawford - Free Agent
Milton Doyle - Free Agent
Gorjok Gak - Free Agent
Ian Hummer - Free Agent
Fabijan Krslovic - Free Agent
Nick Stoddart - Free Agent
Reuben Te Rangi - Free Agent

Tacko may be contracted, but surely they wouldn't bring him back?!

According to Olgun they are working together on getting out of the contract

Herald Sun reporting:

" Matthew Dellavedova wants a three-year NBL deal to help him through to the 2028 LA Olympics and the Sydney Kings are willing to stump up the cash.

The Kings' bid for Dellavedova is set to ramp up amid revelations the veteran guard could have played his last game for Melbourne United.

It’s understood the four-time Olympian is keen on a long-term contract, but at this point United isn’t prepared to table a multi-year offer.

...…

Code Sports understands the Kings are particularly interested in luring the 34-year-old guard to the Harbour City to help boost the club’s backcourt.

Dellavedova is viewed as a perfect veteran piece who would provide Sydney with valuable experience and a winning presence, on-and-off the court.“

Also, Jack White has signed with Bayern Munich per Olgun Uluc socials.

live episode of NBL Marketplace from 9am tomorrow, like last year the panel will be live all morning to break news on signings

I feel like it'll be awkward with very little movement of note

they got a decent show last year but that was because about 15 signings were announced within the first 3 hours, suspect it'll be a lot quieter tomorrow

They know exactly what signings are going to be announced as they work for the NBL so I doubt they would be doing a show at all if they don't have numerous signings lined up.

Last year they did a great job of it, and don't get me wrong, this is a fantastic thing they’re trying to do. This is an area that is worth trying to copy the NBA and they have been.

But if it’s more Bannan to JJs than Delly to Kings or Davis to United or something, it could be a little underwhelming. They have indicated this offseason could be a slowish burn!

Well said KET, couldn't agree more on this being an area where we should look to copy the NBA

Melbourne with a last minute resigning- Kyle Bowen for 2 more years

Michael Harris and Issac White signed with Adelaide according to Olgun Uluc socials.

Ayre to Tassie

Not sure I love White & DJ on the same team getting minutes.

Can't see the Taipans announcing much when we still haven't confirmed a coach.

Hopefully Harris blazes it in NBL1 and gets decent court time at 36ers, another of those who found it hard to shine when Bryce was in godmode for 40 minutes a night. Good for him

quieting down after those early 3 signings, should get another few this morning

dead quiet, going to be a slow burner of a free agency period

Wildcats sign Cam Huefner as a DP

Perth and JLA have mutual interest . He would be a solid marquee signing .

JLA
Doolittle
Winder?
Henshall? ( will probably head to college)
Import

good on Michael Harris, can be a solid 3 n D guy

Delly going to Sydney

Olbrich declares for the NBA Draft.

Might be half a chance of being picked up in the latter half of the second round.

Olgun confirms Flynn Cameron to Adelaide

What are we doing? I guess Sunday is gone for sure now.

Cameron on a 3 year deal too.