Phoenix Sign Austin Rapp as a Development Player for NBL24

South East Melbourne Phoenix has signed local forward Austin Rapp as a development player for NBL24.

A Heartland local, 17-year-old Rapp is no stranger to the Phoenix, having joined the club in an unofficial capacity last season as a training player. His hard work has paid off as he now gets the chance to represent his home region in the NBL.

“I grew up watching Phoenix play, and being able to enjoy that with my basketball teammates throughout my junior basketball years was amazing. So, the decision was easy, Phoenix is in the Heartland which is my home, and I’ve always dreamed of playing for them,” Rapp said.

“As a training player last year, the players made me feel like I was at home already. I’m excited to keep learning from Big Sauce and Mitch Creek and also the new guys as well. Everyone was supportive, and I am just thrilled to be able to continue this journey.”

(Rapp has signed with the Phoenix as a development player for NBL24.)

Rapp was part of the U17 National team who defended its U16 title in 2022 at the FIBA U17 Asia Cup. Across the tournament, Rapp contributed an average of 6.4 points, 6.7 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.4 blocks.

Rapp caught the attention of head coach Mike Kelly at an U19 Australian camp, with the trust for the local’s talent already earned.

“Mike and I get along very well, and he believes in my talents which is most important. He expects me to come in every day at training and bring energy, even as the youngest guy there.

“He wants me to push everyone to become better, and also push myself to higher limits,” Rapp said.

Coach Kelly is excited to add the talented basketballer to his roster and continue to help develop his bright future in basketball.

“We are excited to have Austin, a young player from the Heartland, staying home and continuing his journey with us. He has a unique skill set and feel for the game that will continue to grow with training and daily battles with the group,” Kelly commented.

(Rapp is currently playing with the Knox Raiders in the NBL1 South during the off-season.)

The young forward is playing with the Knox Raiders in NBL1 South, averaging 10.13 points, 4.87 rebounds, and 46.87% from the field for the season so far. 

Rapp joins fan favourite Anzac Rissetto on Phoenix’s list as a development player for NBL24, along with fully rostered players Ben Ayre, Mitch Creek, Owen Foxwell, Gorjok Gak, Matt Kenyon, Reuben Te Rangi, Rhys Vague and Alan Williams.

Stay tuned via Phoenix socials and website for more signings for the NBL24 season.

NBL24 MEMBERSHIPS ON SALE NOW!

Phoenix Media (14/06/23)