Phoenix Enlists Rising Talent Kody Stattmann as DP for NBL24

South East Melbourne Phoenix is pleased to announce the signing of Queenslander Kody Stattmann as a development player for NBL24.

The 23-year-old was rostered at the Brisbane Bullets last season where he played 19 games. The 203cm forward will reunite with assistant coach Sam Mackinnon at the Phoenix and is excited about the opportunity to work under head coach Mike Kelly.

“I am very excited to work with the coaches and all the boys and am very grateful for this opportunity. The main reason why I wanted to join SEM is because I’ve known Mike (Kelly) and Sam (Mackinnon) for a bit and want to be coached by them,” Stattmann commented. 

“They expect me to come in and push myself to improve my game and work hard to be the best player I can. I know they believe in me, and it’s the best place for my development as a pro basketball player.”

(Stattmann played 19 games for Brisbane Bullets in NBL23.)

Stattmann attended a Phoenix DP camp run by Mackinnon last month, impressing the coaches and ultimately earning himself a spot on the roster for NBL24.

“At the DP camp, Kody’s size and length stood out, and his improved shot-making made it hard to go past,” commented Mackinnon.

“Kody’s signing as a DP gives our roster great depth. Personally, I’m looking forward to working with Kody on a daily basis to ensure he fulfils his basketball goals,” he added.  

“Sam and I have known each other for a bit, he’s always believed in me, and I’m excited to be coached by him this year. I appreciated the opportunity to attend the open session; it was a great experience getting to know more about the program and coaching staff,” Stattmann said. 

(Stattmann attended a Phoenix DP camp in June with his performance being a standout across the three days.)

Previously Stattmann spent four years at the University of Virginia, winning a National Championship in his freshman year. He also has represented Australia on multiple occasions including the FIBA U/17 World Cup, U/17 Oceania Championships, U/18 Asia Cup and the FIBA U/19 World Cup, where he averaged 10.3 ppg and 3rpg.

Coach Kelly is excited to add Stattmann to his roster, especially with his length and experience at a young age.

“Kody Stattmann is a great addition to our team. Kody has great experience in Australia and the States and will give us depth at the wing. I’m excited to see Kody grow with our group,” said Kelly.

Stattmann joins fellow development players Austin Rapp and Anzac Rissetto along with Ben Ayre, Gary Browne, Mitch Creek, Owen Foxwell, Gorjok Gak, Matt Kenyon, Reuben Te Rangi, Rhys Vague, and Alan Williams on Phoenix’s NBL24 roster.

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