'Happy Mountain' Vrenz ready to pick and roll

Standing 6'10" with a 7'1" wingspan, you’d be forgiven for mistaking the Belgian for a traditional big. But Bleijenbergh is anything but conventional.

He can pass like a guard, finish at the rim like a forward, and knock down threes like a wing. At 24 years old, he's a walking mismatch — a point-forward with the versatility every modern coach craves.

“I’m really good with the ball in my hands — creating for my teammates or for myself,” Bleijenbergh said.

“That’s my biggest strength: being versatile, doing whatever the team needs.”

Phoenix fans can expect length, skill, and shooting from the Belgian import — a smooth stroke from beyond the arc matched with court vision and feel well beyond his years.

But this move almost didn’t happen.

After a strong season in Turkey, Bleijenbergh had no shortage of offers from European clubs. Then came a phone call that would change everything.

“I was flying out on vacation when my agent called as I landed — he said we’ve got a job in Australia.

“I was excited straight away. I said, ‘Let’s get it done.’ It’s a beautiful opportunity. A beautiful experience.”

Bleijenbergh will touch down in Australia for the first time with his wife and young son — and he’s not coming in blind. He knows the NBL well through former teammates Jae’Sean Tate and Tyler Cook, and has watched the rise of NBA talents Josh Giddey and LaMelo Ball.

He’s also been doing his homework on the Phoenix — especially the Fire Pit.

“The gym looks like it has a great atmosphere,” he said. “I’ve played in Turkey where fans are crazy — but everything I’ve seen on social media looks good. I’m excited to meet them and feel that energy.”

Fans may need a minute to wrap their heads around the spelling — and pronunciation — of Bleijenbergh. The trick? Drop the ‘J’ and say it like Bly-en-berg. Or just go with V if you're not feeling brave.

Fittingly, his surname translates to Happy Mountain — and if he helps the Phoenix climb to the NBL summit come March, that name might just become a cult favourite.