Springwood Scorchers are hoping to turn their fortunes around this season thanks to the signing of US import Devon Sullivan.
It’s the first time the club, which plays in the Waratah League, have taken on an import, with coach Evan Hine describing the American as “the big ticket".
The 201cm tall basketballer from New York usually plays swingman, but his versatility will mean he’ll be shifted around on court for the Scorchers.
Sullivan played in the Queensland Basketball League for the Gold Coast Rollers in 2015-17, the Parramatta Wildcats in the Ultimate Basketball League in 2015, and between 2010 and 2015 he played for several South East Asian teams, namely the Thailand Slammers in the ASEAN Basketball League.
He hasn’t looked back, enjoying the more physical style of basketball in Australia.
“There are very aggressive guards. There are physically stronger and more skilled players. It’s good to move up,” Sullivan said.
Since arriving in NSW a fortnight ago and setting himself up in Glenmore Park, Sullivan had his first training session with the team last week.
“They’re a great group of guys. At training last week there were great team vibes. They’re ready to win and I want to win myself,” the 32-year-old said.
His first game is likely to be against Wagga Wagga on April 7. When the Scorchers last played the team they lost by 19 points, so they’ll be keen to “go 20 points better to get a win”, the coach said.
“My ultimate goal is the championship,” Sullivan said. “I’ll bring my leadership and experience to the team. I can help players grow and hopefully they can help me grow and let the cards fall as they may.”