South East Melbourne Phoenix remain hopeful the NBL’s reigning Defensive Player of the Year John Brown returns to the club next season despite serious European and Asian interest. The Phoenix have long expressed a desire to retain Brown – tabling the American forward a multi-year deal in early March. Club officials were happy for the off-contract import to test the open market but had a confidence he would re-sign following a breakout maiden NBL season. Three months on the Phoenix are still waiting for Brown to commit to the club – sparking genuine concern he will sign elsewhere.
It’s understood the 34-year-old has strong interest from European and Japanese teams. Brown excelled playing for Santeros de Aguada in Puerto Rico’s BSN league post the NBL season, averaging 12.8 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. He also added a league-leading 2.2 steals per contest.
Code Sports understands South East Melbourne will inform Brown if and when the club is ready to move on.
On the plus side for the Phoenix – officials have long been surveying the market for a backup option in case the gun forward opted to join an overseas club.
South East Melbourne Phoenix coach Josh King will attend the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas next month in a bid to find a point guard and potentially other players. The Phoenix are building a formidable roster for NBL27 after signing United’s Tanner Krebs and title-winning Kings big Hunter Goodrick. South East Melbourne proved they belonged as a title contender last season but need to perform under pressure in the big games to take the next step.
Originally published as Will reigning Defensive Player of the Year return to the NBL? SEM’s slim hope amid overseas interest