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Former Brisbane Bullets centre Will Magnay has signed with the Perth Wildcats for the remainder of the NBL21 season, the club confirmed on Thursday.
The 22 year old was waived by NBA franchise the New Orleans Pelicans last month, having seen court time in only one match since signing with the Pelicans in December last year.
Keen to prove his credentials ahead of the Tokyo Olympics later this year the 2020 NBL Most Improved player has signed with the two time reigning champions for the rest of the season, in a major recruiting coup for the Wildcats.
“To come back and play for a team like Perth, with all its history and its success, and play under a coach like Trevor, it’s a great opportunity,” said Magnay.
“I want to win, there’s a culture there of winning. Stats or awards don’t mean anything if you don’t get that championship at the end. I think this would be a special moment to win one and that’s what I’m here for, to help the boys win.
“My game style is to play hard and play the right way. I’ll do what it takes to win and be a good teammate. That’s what you can expect from me.
“The opportunity to play basketball again, at such a historic team like Perth, is exciting. I’m just dying to get back on the court.”
Wildcats coach Trevor Gleeson said Magnay’s signing will allow his team to improve as it approaches another post-season.
“Will can play above the rim at both ends of the court and that’s something that will help out our defence and improve our heat on the rim on offence. He can run the floor, he’s athletic and he can finish over traffic. These are attributes that can help our team,” he said.
“When Will became available and made it clear he wanted to join the Perth Wildcats, we knew it would be a great fit for our roster, so it was a no-brainer to make it happen, given the fortunate timing.
“I’m very excited to see the new dynamic he can bring to this squad. He’s a high calibre player with a bright future ahead of him.”
Magnay is currently in hotel quarantine in Sydney, and will travel to Perth ahead of Sunday’s game against the NZ Breakers, where he will suit up for the first time as a Wildcat.
IMAGE: Aussie Hoopla.