Local Victorian Star Joins Phoenix as Development Player

Local Bullen basketballer Owen Foxwell will join the South East Melbourne Phoenix this season as a development player.

The 18-year-old has waived his commercial rights this season so he retains his college eligibility.

(Foxwell passes the ball at practice)

With Kyle Adnam as captain this season, and both development players local Victorians, the Phoenix have continued to provide opportunites at the highest level for locals.

“I played all my junior basketball at Bulleen from under 12, and I wouldn’t  have wanted to play anywhere else. It really prepared me for what’s to come,” he said.

Foxwell joined the Phoenix for an open run during pre-season, and was invited back by coach Simon Mitchell, who then offered him development player role.

“I came down and just played as hard as I could and then Simon offered me the opportunity to join the team. It’s been awesome so far going against Kyle and Izayah every day, I’m learning so much”

Foxwell made an instant impression when he took to the court in the clubs first NBL Blitz game against the Sydney Kings. 

“I was a little nervous, but after that first play the nerves went away and I just started playing,” he said.

Composed from the get go Foxwell scored inside, then hit an open three before driving baseline and hitting Phoenix centre Zhou Qi for a master dunk.

“Simon, Judd, Luke and the other coaches have been great in giving me the confidence to compete,” he said. “They’ve been great.”

Phoenix CEO Tommy Greer said it was important for the club to give promising players from the Heartland a taste of the NBL.

“We really want to develop the talent we have in Victoria, it’s the home of Australian basketball and it’s important we become a pathway for some of these guys,” he said.

Phoenix Media (18/11/2021)