Gary Browne Returns to Phoenix in NBL24

NBL23 league assist leader Gary Browne will return to the South East Melbourne Phoenix for the upcoming season.

The 185cm Puerto Rican national averaged 6.5 assists per game in his first season at the club while seemingly being able to score at will when required. Still, his aggressive defensive play on the other end of the floor will prove critical in Mike Kelly's game plan.

Browne stated that unfinished business played a prominent role in wanting to return to the club for another year.

"I am ecstatic to be coming back to Melbourne and the Phoenix. We have unfinished business, especially after our season ended abruptly in the play-in qualifier. I loved my time at the club last season and cannot wait to get going for this season," commented Browne.

Browne turned it on during the big games last season, with his best performance coming against cross-town rivals Melbourne United in Throwdown XVIII, scoring 16 points and 11 assists.

(Browne returns for NBL24 after a stellar NBL23 season.)

Australian Boomers coach Brian Goorjian commented that Phoenix had the right mix of imports in NBL23 and has set a good foundation for the future.

"[Phoenix] got their imports right last year; they just couldn't get the health right," commented Goorjian.

"I think they're right there [for a playoff berth], they've set a good foundation, and it's a team that can win championships."

Head coach Mike Kelly is ecstatic to have Browne back at the Phoenix, highlighting his competitive nature and defensive grit as key attributes that play into the team mindset.

"I am excited to have Gary back with the Phoenix. Gary competes every day and plays to win. His intensity and ability to make others better will be huge for this group," commented Kelly.

"I'm looking forward to getting to know Gary and how he thinks of the game. It will be fun being in the same huddle instead of scouting against him."

(Browne will pair up with Creek once again after playing together in Puerto Rico in the off-season.)

The dynamic duo of Browne and Creek reunited in Puerto Rico during the off-season to play with Mets de Guaynabo in the BSN League. The pair took their side from a 1-8 start to finishing second on the Group B ladder and into a finals campaign. Browne continued his NBL form with the Mets averaging 14.1 points, 7.8 assists, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.6 steals.

"Playing with Mitch (Creek) in Puerto Rico recently definitely helped with the decision to return. It's a different look in terms of players and coaches for this upcoming season, but I am excited to meet everyone and get down to business," Browne said. 

CEO Tommy Greer reiterated the importance of having Browne return to the Phoenix, highlighting the chemistry with Alan Williams and Mitch Creek in the starting five.

"Gary proved himself to be the league's elite distributor last season. He plays with an intensity and energy on both ends of the floor that is infectious and spreads through to his teammates. We are really excited to be returning two of last season's international players as I believe it will give the squad some great continuity going into our 5th season," said Greer.

Browne reunites with last season's teammates Mitch Creek, Alan Williams, Owen Foxwell, Reuben Te Rangi and Anzac Rissetto, along with new players Ben Ayre, Gorjok Gak, Matt Kenyon, Austin Rapp, and Rhys Vague for Phoenix's NBL24 roster.  

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