Phoenix's Inaugural Lone Wolf

Mitch Creek.

And whilst the roster, the coaches and the league has changed around him, Creek’s sole focus hasn’t wavered - win a championship.

Creek was the first signing for the Phoenix in 2019, after spending time in the NBA with the Brooklyn Nets and Minnesota Timberwolves. 

Each Phoenix milestone has had Creek front and centre, the first game, the first clash with rival Melbourne United, their first playoff berth and their 100th game in the league.

(Creek is the only member of the inaugural roster from 2019 that remains at the club five years on.)

But in the club's fifth year in the NBL, it will be the most significant change he has seen, with new coaches, players, and staff joining the Phoenix for their next phase.

"Being an inaugural member of the Phoenix, this is year five; there are a lot of new faces," said Creek.

"We've had a few ups and downs over our time. We've had a bit of success. We were very close as well (to a championship). But I think the biggest thing is the culture, and the club keeps developing and growing for the next generation and this current generation in ways that makes me really proud.

"It gives the next generation of players, young boys and girls, aspirations to go and play at this level and beyond.”

With nine new players on the roster, Creek has faith in the side to reach the penultimate goal of the championship.

Forever trying to further his basketball knowledge, Creek spent his ‘off-season’ in Puerto Rico plying his trade with Mets de Guaynabo.

Despite a 1-8 start to the season, his side rallied to make the finals and earn a semi-final berth.

Lessons that he’s learnt that he’ll take into NBL24 with the Phoenix.

"I think for me right now, it's probably the best feeling I've had in a group for a long time, early on.

"We haven't played round one yet, we're not six games in, we haven't gone five and 1 or 1 and five. 

"I want to bring that (time in Puerto Rico) into the team this year and understand that it's game by game, day by day. We're led by great coaches, staff, admin, and ownership. 

"The direction is in a really positive manner. I never want to just think championship; I just want to think day by day."

Phoenix's home opener for NBL24 is against the Perth Wildcats on October 1 as they return to the Fire Pit. CLICK HERE to secure your seats.