Teammates Become Family for Next Star Malique

The 19-year-old made the journey from Trinidad, via New York, alone but has felt anything but that in his short time down under.

“(The guys on the team) are not just here for the team, they’re here to make a family,” Lewis said on the NBl1 South Grand Final broadcast on Kayo.

For Lewis, it’s the little things that remain with him.

“A lot of the guys help me out in practice, one time I fell down and I looked up and everybody was there.”

Lewis has become a duck to water in Melbourne, venturing out into the city and absorbing the culture of Victoria.

"Melbourne is beautiful, and it's a place where I can feel comfortable. I've been settling in pretty well."

Pre-season is in full swing in the Heartland. Three imports arrived at the start of the week, and with one local spot remaining, the countdown to the start of the season is officially on.

Phoenix fans will see the Next Star hit the court for the first time in their pre-season games against Brisbane Bullets and Melbourne United in late August before the Hungry Jack's NBL25 season begins on September 20 at HoopsFest.

Limited tickets remain for the pre-season Throwdown against cross-town rivals Melbourne United on August 31 at State Basketball Centre. CLICK HERE to secure your seats.