Curiosity thrilled the Frenchman: Morin’s Down Under decision

The French big man, who will wear No. 12 for the Phoenix, said the seed was planted years ago through conversations with former teammate Brock Motum, who spoke highly of the NBL during their time playing together.

"It was more coming from people I meet before during my career — last year I was playing with Brock Motum and they used to speak about it a lot," Morin said.

"I always wondered how it was over there. I hear it's a very good league with very big names — last year you had JaVale McGee. So I've always been interested about it."

When his agent brought an offer from the Phoenix to the table, Morin didn't hesitate.

"I was like, oh, why not? Maybe everything is doing for purpose, and maybe that was the goal of it."

Morin said he'd only faced Australian opposition once before, in a youth international match, but had been paying close attention to the league while playing in Japan last season.

"I was watching a few games from you guys because I was playing in Japan at the same time," he said.

"I really like the atmosphere — the gym, the arena, how it was set up. I was really excited to discover this world, and when the opportunity happened, I was just, let's go for it."

Asked what success looks like at the end of his first season in the NBL, Morin didn't hesitate.

"Win the championship. I'm coming here to compete and win the championship, dominate in my position, and get a great season for the team.”

The Phoenix continue their preseason games at State Basketball Centre in a preseason Throwdown against cross-town rivals Melbourne United on Saturday, August 22 at 7pm. CLICK HERE to secure your seat before it sells out.