Phoenix Looking for “Change” at PG, Closing in on Next Star

South East Melbourne Phoenix CEO Tommy Greer has described the kind of import point guard the club is targeting, while also confirming they’re close to signing an NBL Next Star.

John Roberson won’t be returning to the Phoenix in NBL21 and even though the sharpshooter made a positive impact with the club last season, Greer says they’re moving in a different direction at the point guard spot.

“We are looking for a slight change, we want someone a bit more dynamic, a bit longer, a bit more athletic, someone who can get up and play full court defence,” Greer told NBL Overtime.

“(Someone who can) really pester some guys on the defensive end while making the most of the Australian contingent we have brought in. We really want to get the most out of Cam Gliddon and Reuben Te Rangi and we are going to be looking to those guys a lot.

“Finding the right PG this season is going to be key.”

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South East Melbourne had a Next Star last season in Terry Armstrong and Greer says the Phoenix are keen to sign another young talent as part of the program in NBL21.

“We are absolutely in the game (for a Next Star). We are getting pretty close," Greer said.

The offseason has been a busy one for South East Melbourne, as Tai Wesley announced an unexpected early retirement and Yanni Wetzell exercised his European out clause just weeks after signing with the club.

Greer believes the two departures has actually created an opportunity for the Phoenix to construct a better roster, as the club hopes to make the finals in their second season.

“With both of those departures comes a whole lot of opportunity,” Greer said.

“It has now opened up an opportunity to look at high level imports, find a fit that works better for us and we will have a better structured team for the upcoming season.”

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