Phoenix unveil NBL champ as new signing

The South East Melbourne Phoenix have unveiled the signing of NBL champion Ian Clark for the remainder of the Hungry Jack's NBL26 season.

American guard Clark, who won a NBA title with the Golden State Warriors in 2017, joins Josh King's side, who sit in second on the ladder with a 13-6 record.

The Memphis talent, who has 330 NBA games to his name with Utah, Denver, New Orleans and Golden State, has made 92 NBL appearances in his career with Sydney, Adelaide and Melbourne.

Highlights during his time in Australia include winning the NBL22 championship (with Sydney) and NBL24 Sixth Man of Year award (with Melbourne).

The 34-year-old most recently played in Puerto Rico with Cangrejeros de Santurce.

Phoenix general manager of basketball operations Simon Mitchell said a player of Clark’s stature was a great coup for the club as they eye the post-season.

“Ian brings great Championship experience as well as plenty of scoring punch and creativity when we play in the half court. As a club, we have lofty ambitions which are shared by Ian, and we think his addition can assist us in realising them,” Mitchell said.

“To have Ian join us is a great thing for the Heartland, and his experience not only in the FIBA system in Australia but in the world’s premier league is a bonus for the team as we head into the new year.”

The Phoenix parted ways with Hunter Maldonado on Thursday.

The Heartland club next plays Tasmania on Monday at MyState Bank Arena from 7.30pm, live on ESPN.