Phoenix sign 211cm centre Gorjok Gak for NBL24

South East Melbourne Phoenix have announced their first signing during the NBL Free Agency period, with 211cm Australian centre Gorjok Gak joining the club on a one year deal.

The 26 year old big man played for the Brisbane Bullets last season and boasts a 7-foot-4 wingspan, helping him make big defensive plays and block opposition shots. 

(Gak played for the Brisbane Bullets last season.)

His best game for the Bullets game in round 13 against Melbourne United where he recorded 18 points, 13 rebounds, three assists, two steals and a block.

Previously, Gak played for three years at Florida State before averaging 13.5 points and 10.3 rebounds for California Baptists School, where he was also the blocks leader in the Western Athletic Conference.

Following his stint at college he travelled to the Czech Republic for his first professional gig with Nymburk in 2022.

Gak will team up with import Alan Williams to help form an imposing front court for opposition teams in NBL24.

“We are excited about the season ahead for Gorjok. He will fill a key role for the team next season playing behind Alan Williams, and provide the squad with a different look defensively,” said Phoenix CEO Tommy Greer.

“His ability to run the floor and protect the rim will bring a new dimension to us defensively. Gorjok has enormous upside and we are looking forward to working with him on that continued development.” he added.

(Gak boasts an impressive 7-foot-4 wingspan.)

With the addition of Gak, head coach Mike Kelly said the team will continue to build the roster around the key pieces already in place.

“We have some great players on the team already, led by Mitch Creek and Alan Williams. We’re trying to get some great players that will fit alongside them,” said Kelly.

“Some defensive intensity and some toughness I think is going to hopefully run throughout the group. As well as bringing in some more offensive firepower to work beside those guys.”

Gak joins rostered players Alan Williams, Mitch Creek, Owen Foxwell, Reuben Te Rangi and development player Anzac Rissetto as players signed at Phoenix for NBL24.

Phoenix Media (10/04/2023)