New Big in Town: TaShawn Thomas signs with the Perth Wildcats
TaShawn Thomas has signed with the Perth Wildcats for season 2022/23
The Perth Wildcats have signed high flying big man TaShawn Thomas for the NBL23 season.
The 6’8 power forward is well experienced in the international game. Playing across Europe in his seven year professional career.
Thomas is excited to join Perth this upcoming season.
“This is an incredible opportunity for me to be a part of a club with great history, a huge fan base and an exciting roster,” said Thomas.
The 29-year-old played last season for Le Mans in France’s first division. Averaging 13.7 points, 6.2 rebounds, 0.9 blocks and 0.7 steals per game, while being named an All-Star and in the LNB All-First team.
From 2018-2021, he played in Israel for Hapoel Jerusalem. He is a three time Israeli State Cup winner, one time Israeli League Cup winner, Israeli State Cup MVP in 2019 and Israeli League Defensive Player of the Year in 2019.
Perth Head Coach John Rillie said the Red Army should get excited for their new signing.
“I value players who can pass the ball, because if we’re going to play a good style on offence, we need guys who can share, but also put the ball in the hole,” said Rillie.
“One thing that impressed me is; TaShawn played for a coach in Israel who demanded effort at the defensive end, and he was rewarded with Defensive Player of the Year. So, as well as the dunks and blocks, I think the Red Army will buy in to the intensity he’ll bring at the defensive end.”
Thomas joins Mitch Norton, Bryce Cotton, Kyle Zunic, Corey Webster, Todd Blanchfield, Luke Travers, Corey Shervill, Jesse Wagstaff, Oliver Hayes-Brown (DP) and Majok Majok on Perth’s roster.
Perth still have an import spot available which will become their starting centre. They have been rumoured to be in discussions with locals Thon Maker, Mangok Mathiang, Yannick Wetzell, as well as import big man Alan Williams.
The Wildcat’s season starts on October 2nd against the Brisbane Bullets at RAC Arena.