Phoenix Sign Import Centre

South East Melbourne Phoenix have secured their first fresh addition for the NBL22 season, landing American big Zach Hankins.

Hankins joins the Phoenix on a one-year deal following an impressive college career at Ferris State and Xavier, and successful stints in Europe.

The 25-year-old import will give the team a dominant presence on both ends at the centre position and an eye-catching style of play for fans to enjoy.

“It’s a great situation at a great team that’s really good at developing players. It was just a really good fit,” Hankins said.

“On the court I go hard, dunk hard, rebound hard, block hard, play hard.

“I get hyped. I love the energy, the fans and playing hard. That’s what I always try to bring. I want to pull everyone along with me to go as hard as you can. There’s no other feeling like it.”

At 6’11 and weighing 111 kg, Hankins is a shot-blocking machine. He averaged 3.9 blocks per game in his second college season at Ferris State and 2.3 blocks more recently for Czech club CEZ Nymburk in the European Basketball Champions League.

(Hankins in action for Xavier University)

Phoenix Coach Simon Mitchell says Hankins’ aggressive style of play and elite size make him a perfect addition.

“Zach is someone who caught our eye at NBA summer league two years ago. We had some talks back then and have followed his career since in the hope that one day we would get an opportunity to bring him to the NBL in a Phoenix jersey,” Mitchell said.

“He brings great length, athleticism and plays with a real fire which is infectious.

“I love Zach’s ability to run the floor and he plays well above the rim which our guards will love targeting. Defensively, we will get the rim protection we have sorely missed.”

Hankins will play for the Phoenix Suns in the NBA Summer League, starting August 9, before joining the Phoenix’s pre-season preparations.

It will be his second NBA Summer League stint, having represented the Philadelphia 76ers last year.

CEO Tommy Greer believes Phoenix fans are in for a spectacle.

“I think our fanbase is really going to embrace Zach not only for his athletic play out on the court but because of his fun personality and passion for the game,” he said.

“We’ve been in touch with Zach for over a year now and are super excited for him to finally join us in NBL22. He’s a seriously high-level talent and adding a body his size complements our already strong roster.”

The Phoenix’s NBL22 roster now includes Zach Hankins, Ryan Broekhoff, Mitch Creek, Cam Gliddon, Kyle Adnam, Dane Pineau, Izayah Le’afa and Reuben Te Rangi.

NBL22 MEMBERSHIPS ON SALE NOW 

Phoenix Media (28/07/2021)