Ayre's Grace and Advice Set to Elevate Fennell

Luke Fennell’s coveted signature was finally secured by the Phoenix, and with that comes a chance for the 17-year-old to learn from some seasoned pros.

With high hopes of a full roster spot with the Phoenix – before heading to NBA where many high-level scouts believe he is destined for – he’ll continue conversations he began last year with some of South East Melbourne’s ballhandlers.

Namely Ben Ayre, who by chance was injured at a session Fennell attended with the Phoenix last year, kickstarting a relationship that could blossom under Mike Kelly this campaign.

“When I was training with the Phoenix in the summertime, Ben Ayre had an injured shoulder so I stepped in and played for him during scrimmage,” Fennell told Phoenix Media.

“He helped me out the whole time, what I needed to do, and do better so he’s someone I’ll definitely talk to a lot.”

MORE: Fennell's signature four years in the making

Ayre too began as a development player with the Adelaide 36ers before earning roster spots with both the Cairns Taipans and South East Melbourne Phoenix.

Fennell will also look to another fellow off-season recruit in Nathan Sobey, who comes to the Phoenix with a wealth of NBL knowledge and an Olympic Bronze Medal.

“He reminds me a lot of myself, I’m hoping to learn a lot from him and be like him in a way.”

The pre-season campaign begins July 15 for local players, with Fennell to continue to ply his trade with the Centre of Excellence in the meantime.

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