Phoenix to Prioritise Local Talent

In the blink of an eye Mike Kelly’s South East Melbourne Phoenix side has become one of the most filled out ahead of the NBL24 season. In fact, the Phoenix has just four main roster spots remaining.

Rhys Vague has joined Matt Kenyon and Gorjok Gak in signing for the club, while Owen Foxwell has signed a new contract that comes with an elevation to the main roster.

With two of those four remaining spots eligible to be imports, Kelly says the club will first focus on rounding out its contingent of local talent.

“We are now focused on filling out the last local positions,” he said. “When we have done that we will have a good idea of what we need from imports to complement and strengthen the group.

“As the roster is becoming a tough, connected unit every position is important.

“I’m really happy that we’ve been able to add such high-quality, talented people to the roster.

“Matt Kenyon, Rhys Vague and Gorjok Gak give us toughness, skill and athleticism.”

The elevation of Foxwell and the signing of Kenyon could indicate a slight change of tactic for the Phoenix backcourt.

Both players have the potential to be elite defenders. Despite being a development player last season Foxwell averaged 1.3 steals per game – enough to rank in the top 20 players in the competition – while Kenyon was named as Tasmania’s Defensive Player of the Year in the side’s inaugural season.

Kelly says the club is searching for players who can impact both sides of the ball in those positions.

“While the ability to defend is key, there is no doubt we will also be looking for some great guard play,” he said.

“With the quality of guards across the NBL, we will need players that can facilitate and score to round out the group we have.

“We also have our eye on some talented young players that will have an opportunity to come in and make their mark as development players.”

South East Melbourne kicks off its season against Melbourne United in the opening game of Round 1 on September 28.