Sharks ready to slam dunk da funk

OPINION: If the Southland Sharks want to be competitive in their debut season in the NBL, their next four signings are going to be pivota, writes Brendon Egan in this week's Nothing But Net.

After open trials at the weekend, the Sharks have 11 confirmed players on their books, which means they've got four spaces left.

So far the Sharks have managed to snaffle up some useful names, but some hoops fans out there will no doubt be wondering when a big-name marquee signing is going to be announced.

They say good things take time, and I would not at all be surprised if Sharks officials have saved their biggest drawcards for last, as the anticipation begins to build a month out from their first game.

With almost every side in the league having two talented import players, the old adage in the New Zealand league is that Kiwi players will win you the game.

The Sharks are yet to announce their two American players, which suggests the franchise is lining up a big-name New Zealand player and with the amount of guards in the squad, you'd hope it's a big man.

If I was involved with the franchise, one guy I'd be doing everything in my power to get would be Tall Black centre Craig Bradshaw. Bradshaw is playing in the Australian NBL with the Gold Coast Blaze and would be an ideal fit for a new franchise like the Sharks. The big 210cm Wellingtonian would be a dominant force in the New Zealand league and is the kind of player who could transform the Sharks from a middle-of-the-road side to one that could easily ruffle a few feathers in playoff basketball.

Looking at the Sharks roster at the moment, I'm pretty happy with what I see. Snapping up Australian point Luke Martin deserves a massive pat on the back. Martin is a skilful point guard, who has always impressed me and I think he'll be a real asset for the franchise – not only with his play but his leadership. With Martin having a Kiwi father, he also counts as a local, meaning he doesn't take up an import spot.

James Paringatai, Gareth Dawson and Daniel Munday are three players from around the league, who have a huge opportunity with the Sharks to see increased minutes and if they can step up and take their chances, they could make a real impact.

The Sharks don't have long to pull it all together before their first game on March 6, but with determined figures such as Richard Dickel, Trevor Ryder, Jill Bolger and Murray Heath involved with the franchise, I reckon Southland will be ready for some slam dunk da funk and wins come the start of the season.

» The latest addition to the Southland Times sports department, Brendon Egan is a transplanted Cantabrian who is still in mourning for the Ranfurly Shield. Brendon’s main interests are basketball and football and having spiky hair.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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Schmeal   #1   01:47 pm Feb 08 2010

Jame Paringatai is the man. He will do so much for Southland. Go Jame Go!

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