Rival swap: Aliir signs with Phoenix

The South East Melbourne Phoenix have signed Akech Aliir for the NBL26 season. 

Aliir makes the move across town from Melbourne United, where he was elevated to a full roster spot last season. 

“We feel Akech has untapped potential and is only scratching the surface of what he can do in the NBL. He is a the prototypical modern five-man in that he can shoot from the perimeter and defend the rim. We believe he can provide minutes at the four spot also” Phoenix General Manager of Basketball Operations, Simon Mitchell said.

“He’s proven to be an elite player at NBL1 level with Mt. Gambier and has now had two years of development in NBL programs, we’re excited to get him to the Heartland.”

A proven star in the NBL1, Aliir currently plays for the Mount Gambier Pioneers in the NBL1 South, averaging 22.7 points and 7 rebounds. 

Aliir joins Jordan Hunter, Nathan Sobey, Owen Foxwell and Angus Glover as contracted players heading into the upcoming Hungry Jack’s NBL26 season.