Sobey to extend career in the Heartland

Phoenix co-captain Nathan Sobey will play on in NBL27, signing a two-year contract (2nd year mutual option) extension with the South East Melbourne Phoenix.

The 35-year-old will enter a remarkable 13th NBL season — and his third in Phoenix colours — having debuted with the Cairns Taipans during the NBL15 campaign.

A testament to the veteran’s durability and longevity, only Jesse Wagstaff and Chris Goulding have played more NBL games than Sobey over the past decade.

Sobey is currently enjoying one of the most efficient seasons of his career, posting career-high averages in points and steals in what has been an MVP-calibre campaign.

Phoenix General Manager of Basketball Operations Simon Mitchell said Sobey remains a key piece of the South East Melbourne roster and the club was delighted to secure his signature.

“Nathan is the utmost professional, and since walking through the doors in the Heartland he has been a standard-setter within our group,” Mitchell said.

“He is a highly respected club leader, and to have him extend his time here is a great outcome for both Nathan and the club.”

“It’s pleasing to get this done early so we can focus on the next period as a club, as both Nathan and the Phoenix chase our first championship.”

Sobey paid tribute to the Phoenix organisation and the fans in the Heartland following the extension.

“Since walking into the club two years ago, I’ve been made to feel nothing but welcome by the front office and the fans on game day,” Sobey said.

“I’m excited to have at least another season of that. We have lofty goals as we chase a title, and I’m proud to be part of this group — but there’s still a lot of work to be done this season and beyond.”

The announcement was made live in front of a thrilled Phoenix crowd as Sobey ran out ahead of tip-off against the Tasmania JackJumpers at John Cain Arena.