Mount Gambier Pioneers sign Austin Shelley from West Texas for NBL1 South season 2023

An SA country basketball side has recruited a star shooter returning from America in a major coup ahead of the 2023 NBL1 season.

A local basketball club has signed a star Australian on return from America as it prepares to launch another championship bid in 2023.

West Texas University prospect Austin Shelley has returned to Australia to join NBL1 South club Mount Gambier Pioneers.

The star 20-year-old shooter is a major coup for the club as it looks to bounce back from last season’s second place finish and challenge for the title in 2023.

Shelley – who is a former All-Australian U18 and also represented the Knox Raiders in NBL1 South last season – said he had been impressed by the Pioneers in recent years.

“Just playing against them during the last few seasons you realise how good a club it is and they ended up giving me a decent offer for good playing time which I couldn’t refuse so I’m thrilled to join,” Shelley said.

Austin Shelley in action for West Texas. The shooting prospect has joined Mount Gambier for NBL1 South season 2022. Picture: Supplied

“I like the way they play, they’ve got a really good reputation and there’s a professional environment around the place.

“Seeing how the local community supports them and motivates the team, that’s something I’m also excited about.”

Shelley played 28 games for West Texas during the 2021-22 season and 14 games for Knox after returning to Australia during the American off-season.

In that time he developed himself as a reliable three-point shooter and strong perimeter defender.

“My time in Texas was super good for me. You don’t get to play against that calibre of athlete all the time so I think I definitely developed my game, especially defensively and learning how to finish better through contact,” Shelley said.

Shelley in Mount Gambier after signing with the Pioneers. Picture: Supplied, Mount Gambier Pioneers

“I’m looking forward to finding the parts of my game I can develop with coach (Richard) Hill at Mount Gambier and help the team win a championship.

“My shooting can really open the game up for my teammates and I’m looking to bring a lot of leadership and energy on and off the floor.”

Pioneers coach Richard Hill said Shelley would play a key role in his side’s title contention.

“He’s a very important part of our plans as we rebuild for 2023.

“A knockdown three-point shooter and a great perimeter defender, he’ll be a key impact player and I expect him to become a fan favourite.”

Shelley will arrive at the club for training early next year.