Wildcats Sign Import TaShawn Thomas

The Perth Wildcats have signed high-flying big man TaShawn Thomas for the 2022/23 NBL season.

Thomas is the first new import to join the Wildcats this off-season and after a highly decorated career in Europe, the 29-year-old is excited to be heading down under.

“This is an incredible opportunity for me to be a part of a club with great history, a huge fan base and an exciting roster,” Thomas said.

“I consider my strength to be my versatility. I’ll bring a lot of energy to this team, and I think the fans will see a guy who will do anything to help his team win.

“I can’t wait to join my new teammates in Perth.”

Standing at 203 centimetres and weighing 105 kilograms, Thomas is known for his ability to protect the rim at one end and finish with authority at the other.

Wildcats GM of basketball Danny Mills said Thomas is exactly what Perth’s squad needed.

“When filling out the roster we were looking for skilled bigs who can both score the ball as well as make plays for others, whether that’s through their own playmaking or setting screens. TaShawn ticks all those boxes,” Mills said.

“He’ll provide us with a lot of versatility on both sides of the ball, allowing (coach) John (Rillie) and his staff the flexibility to play with multiple different line-ups.”

Born in Las Vegas before attending high school in Texas, Thomas played three years of college basketball at the University of Texas, then transferred to the University of Oklahoma for his senior year in 2014/15.

He began his professional career in Germany, and has since played in Italy, Israel and France.

During his time in Israel, he was named both State Cup MVP and Best Defender in 2019.

In his most recent season for French club Le Mans, he was both an All-Star and named to the LNB Pro All-First Team, averaging 13.7 points, 6.2 rebounds, 0.9 blocks and 0.7 steals per game.

Coach Rillie explained what impressed him the most about Thomas’ skillset.

“I value players who can pass the ball, because if we’re going to play a good style on offense, we need guys who can share, but also put the ball in the hole,” Rillie said.

“One thing that impressed me is TaShawn played for a coach in Israel who demanded effort at the defensive end, and he was rewarded with Defensive Player of the Year. So, as well as the dunks and blocks, I think the Red Army will buy in to the intensity he’ll bring at the defensive end.”

The Wildcats now have 10 of their 11 roster positions locked in, with one import spot up their sleeve. Pre-season training will officially commence next month, with Perth’s season-opener confirmed for Sunday, October 2 at RAC Arena against the Brisbane Bullets.