Phoenix philosophy wins over Schwartz

South East Melbourne Phoenix import D'Shawn Schwartz says the club’s high-pressure, full-court philosophy was a major factor in his move to Australia.

The versatile forward is excited to play under Josh King in a system he believes perfectly suits his evolving game.

“I think he's (King) bringing a different brand of basketball ... really fast, picking up full court. A lot of threes. I think it fits my game,” Schwartz told Phoenix Media.

Already a proven scorer, the American says he’s looking to add another element to his game during his time in the NBL.

“I'm 27 ... I'd like to play a long career ... here the big thing will really be defence ... that's the identity of this team,” Schwartz said.

“For me it's about how can I impose my will on the game ... I started picking up full court late last year and just fell in love with it.”

Schwartz averaged 13.5 points and 5.9 rebounds per game during his most recent season in Germany and can’t wait to get started with the Phoenix.

“D’Shawn can play a multitude of positions; he can play the three, the four and even the two. He’s a two-way player and a high-quality shooter, around the 40 per cent mark in his recent seasons,” King said last week.

“That’s something we need a recruit to do, extend the floor, create spacing and open up opportunities for the five-man to roll to the basket, catch lobs and open up the paint.

“The experience he has in Europe will definitely allow him to catch up really quickly with what's going on in Australia and with what we're trying to do.”

Read the full story here >> Defence a drawcard for D’Shawn Schwartz