Phoenix Sign Young Fan Claude to One-Game Contract

South East Melbourne Phoenix signed young fan Claude Nelson to an honorary one-game contract this morning at the State Basketball Centre ahead of Throwdown VIII on Saturday.

Claude signed his contract with CEO Tommy Greer before being presented to the playing group by co-captain Kyle Adnam at training to celebrate the club's annual Starlight Children's Foundation game this week.

(The newest team member got a big reception from the group)

The 14-year-old basketball lover suffers from a serious heart condition which means he can't play competitive sport. He underwent open heart surgery a few weeks ago.

"It’s pretty hard, it effects my self esteem from time to time. But being able to have stuff like this, coming down to games, being able to sit courtside - especially after the heart surgery when I was told I had to take it easy and can’t shootaround definitely made it hard – to be able to come down today to even just talk to the guys and watch them train was really great," Claude said.

"A big thankyou to South East Melbourne for getting me down."

Following practice, Claude shot baskets with a number of Phoenix players.

(Claude and his father Matt with Ryan Broekhoff)

On Saturday against Melbourne United at John Cain Arena, Claude will run out with the team and stand with them for the national anthem.

"Kyle Adnam handed me a custom-made jersey with my name on the back and Kyle’s number for my one game that I’m going to be with the team," he said.

"I’m very excited for it although I think Chris Goulding is going to have to work on his shooting a bit more because I’m going to be guarding him. I may not be the tallest but I can jump high.

"I had a good old chat with Cam Gliddon and Mitch Creek. Creeky seemed pretty impressed with my mullet.

(Claude and Mitch sharing a laugh)

"It was good to talk with Ryan Broekhoff and Dane Pineau. Kyle Adnam also had a pretty great chat with me."

The Phoenix will have a number of fundraising activities operating during the 'Starlight game' from a donation for every three pointer made, to a quarter time activation that will see two special guests receive $50 for Starlight for every free throw they make.

Phoenix Media (06/05/2021)