Wildcats re-sign pair, Weeks signs in Cairns
Photo Credit: Perth Now
The Perth Wildcats have begun their quest for back-to-back NBL championships with the re-signings of club favourites Matt Knight and Jesse Wagstaff.
Knight has been somewhat of a focal point for the Wildcats in years past, with his consistency and leadership two vital aspects to his game despite an injury riddled career.
Having already been able to play in four NBL grand finals over the course of his six year stint in Perth, Knight is looking forward to creating an even bigger dynasty than the 'Cats already are.
“Coming off another championship, we really have a rare opportunity to build a special legacy at the Wildcats and I want to be a part of that," Knight stated in the Wildcats media release.
Knight averaged 11.5 points and 7.9 rebounds across 2015/16 and was an important part of the championship puzzle.
While Wagstaff was technically already on the books for season 2016/17, his announcement was an extension on his contract which will see him in red until 2019.
Having already created a stellar career in Australia's west, claiming two NBL championships, as well as the 2010 Rookie of the Year and the 2012 Sixth Man of the Year.
Wagstaff told media that he understands what it means to be a 'one-club player':
“Being a one-team player does mean a lot to me, it’s kind of all I’ve known. I guess it’s nice to be with that one organisation and it’s something I’m pretty proud of.”
The Wildcats will be active in the player talent pool in the short term, with further announcements expected to be made shortly.
Image credit: NBL
On the other side of the country, the Cairns Taipans have nabbed exciting talent Jarrad Weeks from the Illawarra Hawks.
A fan favourite of all NBL followers last season, Weeks brings a high level of energy each and every night, something which head coach Aaron Fearne will look to use to their advantage.
Fearne spoke about what his latest signing brings to the Snakes:
“We’re really looking forward to bringing Jarrad in – he’s an incredible example of a player who continued to work hard, and grabbed an opportunity with both hands when it was presented,” said Fearne.
“He definitely impressed us last season, and the biggest upside for us is that he’s a very exciting player who is hungry and determined.
Having been originally signed as an injury replacement for Rhys Martin at the beginning of the 2015/16 NBL season, a full time contract signed so early in the off-season is testament to Weeks' hard work and dedication to the cause.
Weeks, who is currently playing for the Hobart Chargers in SEABL over the off-season, will slide straight into the Taipans back-up point guard role with Shaun Bruce expected to depart this off-season.
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