Phoenix flavour for B.LEAGUE clash

Some of the NBL’s brightest talents will showcase their skills on the international stage when NBL Select travels to Japan for a two-game series against B.LEAGUE UNITED - a squad of players from Japan’s top-tier competition - for the inaugural B.LEAGUE GLOBAL INVITATIONAL.
 
Two games will be played on the 28th and 29th of June in Gunma, Japan, marking a new chapter in the relationship between the leagues.
 
NBL Select will be coached by Simon Mitchell, the inaugural coach of the South East Melbourne Phoenix.
 
"This is a great opportunity to partner with the B.LEAGUE and continue to play a role in the development of the sport in our region, it’s also a great test for our athletes against a strong B.LEAGUE squad, we’re thankful to the B.LEAGUE for partnering with us on this tour," NBL Chief Operating Officer and Head of Basketball Operations Vince Crivelli said. 
 
"The team we’ve assembled has a great mix of championship pedigree, experience, and exciting talent – ably led by Simon who is a fantastic coach and mentor. We’re ready to represent the NBL with pride."

The team list for the NBL Select Players includes:
DJ Mitchell - A versatile forward known for his athleticism and scoring touch, Mitchell has become one of the league’s most consistent performers.
Kyle Adnam – A respected NBL veteran, Adnam brings a decade of experience and leadership, carving out a reputation as one of the league’s most reliable guards.
Angus Glover – A three-time NBL Champion with the Sydney Kings, Glover’s toughness, defence, and clutch play will be pivotal against elite international competition.
Mitchell Norton – A proven floor general and former NBL Champion with the Perth Wildcats. 
Sam McDaniel – A lockdown defender and 2021 NBL Champion with Melbourne United, McDaniel offers critical two-way impact and veteran savvy.
Mason Peatling – Another 2021 NBL Champion, Peatling is a high-IQ forward who brings interior strength and offensive versatility.
Sunday Dech – A tenacious perimeter defender and two-time NBL Champion, Dech brings toughness, experience, and elite defensive instincts.
Todd Withers – A dynamic import with the Perth Wildcats in NBL25, Withers is known for his athleticism, and ability to stretch the floor.
Joshua Bannan, Jason Spurgin, and Akech Aliir represent the newest wave of NBL talent, offering athleticism, size, and upside as they continue their professional development.
 
"We anticipate the games will draw large crowds and further strengthen the ties between the leagues," Crivelli added. 

"It will be a great trip for everyone involved and we hope to do the NBL proud."

Match details:
Saturday, 28 June 2025
Sunday, 29 June 2025