Phoenix Finalise Their Roster

The South East Melbourne Phoenix have signed 206cm American Devin Thomas as their second import, finalising the team’s roster for the upcoming season.

The 27-year-old spent his four-year college career at Wake Forest averaging a double double his senior year, recording 15.6 points and 10.2 rebounds per game.

(Devin Thomas played for Wake Forest University in college.)

An athletic big man and a power dunker, he plays aggressively at both ends and will add some size and strength to the Phoenix line up.

Phoenix head coach Simon Mitchell remembered watching Thomas play at Wake Forrest against Virginia, while on a US tour. 

“I remembered Devin's passing ability and it always stuck with me and it made me take an interest in his career. I see his size and athleticism at the defensive end providing us a different look on our front line, particularly in cleaning up the boards,” Mitchell said. “Devin's pick and roll play combined with his passing ability will further complement our team offense.”

After going undrafted, Thomas played Summer League with the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2016. 

He began his professional career in 2017 playing with Spanish club Bilbao Basket and over the last few years he has travelled the world playing in Israel, Hungary, Argentina, and most recently Latvia.

(Devin Thomas going up for a two hand dunk.)

“I am excited and most importantly, grateful for the opportunity to play for this great organisation,” Thomas said. “I can’t wait to meet all of my teammates, coaches, and the fans. I can’t wait to get to out to Melbourne soon.”

Thomas is expected to arrive in Melbourne over the weekend and will join the team immediately.

“We’re incredibly excited to add Devin to the team, and to finalise our lineup for NBL22,” Phoenix CEO Tommy Greer said. “He plays incredibly hard at both ends and I have no doubt will become a fan favourite.”

Thomas finalises an incredibly deep Phoenix roster that includes; Kyle Adnam, Ryan Broekhoff, Mitch Creek, Cam Gliddon, Reuben Te Rangi, Zhou Qi, Izayah Le’afa, Xavier Munford, Dane Pineau, Tohi Smith-Milner, Tristan Forsyth, and  Owen Foxwell.

Phoenix Media (19/11/2021)