South Adelaide Panthers land Daniel Johnson for NBL1 Central season 2023

The reigning NBL1 Central basketball champions have landed a veteran Adelaide 36ers big man in a shock move ahead of season 2023.

Last season’s NBL1 Central basketball champions have gained the services of a veteran Adelaide 36ers big man for season 2023 in a shock move with just over a week until tip-off.

The South Adelaide Panthers, who defeated Woodville last year under former 36ers coach Scott Ninnis to win their first title since 1997, have signed 34-year-old big Daniel Johnson.

Johnson, who had played for Forestville since 2018, is currently competing in his 13th NBL season with the Adelaide 36ers, averaging 11 points and five rebounds off the bench.

The star forward said discussions with Ninnis had led to his decision to play another season of NBL1.

“I wasn’t really sure what I was going to do once the 36ers season finishes and originally I probably wasn’t planning on playing, but I had a couple conversations with Scotty (Ninnis) recently and decided I’d like to play at South Adelaide,” Johnson said.

Adelaide 36ers player Daniel Johnson ahead of his 400th NBL game. He has signed with South Adelaide for NBL1 Central season 2023. Picture: Sarah Reed/Getty Images

“Just from the few times he’s been out at trainings he seems like he really knows what he’s doing and I’m looking forward to playing under him and learning from him.”

The move marks the first time Johnson will play for a local club other than Forestville in five seasons.

The NBL1 Central veteran said he enjoyed his time at the club despite ultimately leaving ahead of this season.

“Forestville coach Andrew Simons has been really great to me over the years and I originally left because I wasn’t interested in playing,” Johnson said.

Johnson said he was looking forward to playing under iconic SA coach Scott Ninnis (right). Picture: File

“I guess I decided I’d still like to play after chatting with Scott Ninnis though but by then the Eagles had already put their team together. There were no hard feelings.”

Johnson will be teaming up with star South Adelaide forward Alex Starling and USA import guard Jeremy Smith this season as the club aims for its second straight championship.

He said he was reinvigorated by the potential of the group.

“I’m definitely excited. They had a lot of success last year and it’s a veteran group which plays the right way.

“We can achieve great success this season and for myself I’m just keen to come in and do what I do, fit in with their culture and just maintain a high level of performance.”

The Panthers will begin their season on March 25 against the Eastern Mavericks.