Saints imports quick to shine

BY SAM WORTHINGTON

Early days, but the signs are that the Wellington Saints have landed a couple of gems in imports Erron Maxey and Darryl Hudson.

The affable Americans have settled in well in the capital, both on and off the court.

Maxey and Hudson have piled on the points for the Saints (2 wins, 1 loss) but more importantly are earning praise within the camp for their attitude and selflessness.

Forward Maxey scored 25 points in last Saturday night's loss to Nelson, including connecting with seven of 10 three-point attempts, and will be a key weapon for the Saints in tonight's away trip to the powerful Harbour Heat (2-0).

A team-mate of Saints coach Pero Cameron at the Gold Coast Blaze, Maxey said it was an easy decision to play for Wellington.

"I have just the highest respect for Pero and the knowledge that he contains and brings to the game," Maxey said.

"If it had been anybody else it would be a different situation but because I played with him as a team-mate and knowing him as a person, it was very easy for me."

The well travelled Maxey has played in Europe, Argentina and the NBA minor leagues in the United States and had been impressed by the standard of the NBL.

"I'm still taking it in and adjusting but it's a good league, very solid, very professional. It's a great environment to be in and everybody has the common goal of being able to get good work done and fight for a championship."

Maxey admitted he didn't know much about tonight's opponents, who include veteran Breakers Rick Rickert and Dillon Boucher, American guard Kavossy Franklin and rising Kiwi talents Corey Webster and BJ Anthony.

"We've been going over a few of their sets but as far as their personnel goes, I don't really know too much."

Hudson will again run the point for the Saints as Lindsay Tait remains sidelined with a sprained ankle.

Meanwhile, the Saints yesterday unveiled a new naming rights sponsor, Exodus Health and Fitness Club, replacing Century City.

HOW THEY LINE UP

What: NBL Where: North Shore Events Centre

When: 7pm tonight

Saints: Darryl Hudson, Troy McLean, Leon Henry, Casey Frank, Nick Horvath, Erron Maxey, George Le'afa, Randall Bishop, Damien Ekenasio, Ross Taurima

Harbour: Kavossy Franklin, Corey Webster, BJ Anthony, Dillon Boucher, Rick Rickert, Houston O'Riley, Karl Noyer, Brad Anderson, Sam King, Morgan Nathan, Reece Cassidy, Daryl Cartwright

- © Fairfax NZ News