Phoenix Rising as Third Import Signs

The South-East Melbourne Phoenix have confirmed their third and final import for NBL23, signing ex-NBA big man Alan Williams to a one-year deal.

Williams, a 203-centimetre forward hailing from Arizona, heads to the NBL with over 60 games of NBA experience under his belt – notably playing in 47 contests for the Suns in the 2016-17 season.

He comes to Melbourne with already one long-term connection in the city having played with Mitch Creek at the Long Island Nets in the 2018-19 campaign.

“Having a chance to play with Mitch Creek in Long Island was memorable. He’s a hell of a competitor; he brings it every night and cares about his teammates and his team,” Williams said.

“I had a couple of conversations once the interest started rising on both sides. He was adamant about getting me out here and joining the team. He gave me all the positives the city of Melbourne brings and the great things the team are trying to do.

“I always heard that Australia was an amazing place to visit, and it happens to be a perfect and upcoming basketball league. I just found it a good opportunity to further my career and touch an area of the globe that I haven't been to yet. I'm excited.

“It’s a league that’s on the rise. I think you have seen it from the deals that guys tend to get after playing a season in the NBL.”

Off the court, Williams’ parents have both been strong role models in his pursuit of professional basketball. His father, Cody Sr, is a judge and his mother, Jeri, is the Chief of Police in Phoenix. 

“My mum is my best friend … having that strong woman in my life helped get me through a lot of situations,” Williams revealed. 

“She has always been there, always answers the call and has just been a tremendous role model for me my whole life.”

South-East Melbourne coach Simon Mitchell has been a long-time admirer of Williams, having kept close tabs on the powerful forward since his days of playing with Creek in the G-League.

“I know ‘Creeky’ loved playing next to him, and I think they have some unfinished business together. He is a monster on the boards, has a natural feel for where the ball is going and protects that area with his frame,” Mitchell said.

“Offensively, his touch and basketball IQ have always stood out. Alan possesses a teardrop that extends out to the free throw line. He makes great basketball decisions out of the short rolls, whether finishing or finding a teammate. And he seals so well around the rim, especially after a deep roll on the rim. I think he will have a very successful season in our system.”

Outside of his experience in the NBA and the G-League Williams’ career has taken him to China and Russia, where he most recently played with Lokomotiv Kuban.