NBL: Taipans Boost Backcourt with Signing from NBA G League
The Taipans have secured their second import for NBL25 by signing former Oklahoma City Thunder shooting guard to a one-year deal.
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The Taipans have secured their second import for NBL25 by signing former Oklahoma City Thunder shooting guard Rob Edwards to a one-year deal.
Edwards will arrive at the Taipans after representing the Cleveland Charge, Maine Celtics, and Delaware Blue Coats in the NBA G-League this past season, prior to which he played 12 games for German Basketball Bundesliga side BG Goettingen.
The Detroit native played college basketball at Cleveland State and Arizona State before going on to be selected 18th overall by the Oklahoma City Blue in the 2021 G League Draft.
Taipans Head Coach Adam Forde said that the G-League journeyman caught his eye some time ago, but it wasn’t until this NBL off-season that he made a play to recruit him.
“Rob first caught my attention in 2022 as this hard-nosed defender picking up full court in the G League,” Forde said.
“He got an NBA call-up and then had another successful season with Wisconsin the following year.
“Back then, timing-wise it didn’t work for us, but it’s an ideal situation for both parties now. He’s 27 years old and is about to reach some peak basketball in his career.
“I think we can provide a clear role and stability for him to showcase his talent.”
A ferocious slasher and deadly shooter from mid-range and behind the arc, Edwards’ scoring punch during his time at Oklahoma earned him the nickname “the microwave” among basketball analysts and commentators for his immediate impact off the bench.
Forde said the expectation is he will be able to provide that scoring prowess as a starter and will be an option as a closer in the fourth quarter.
“His best basketball is off the ball, so to get him at the back end of offence or opportunistic scoring is key, but if we find ourselves in foul trouble or if we lose Taran (Armstrong) to the NBA, we have another guy that can set the offence.”
Forde said that Edwards’ versatility was appealing, but it was his attitude that solidified him as the right fit for the Taipans.
“It always catches your attention when guys are picking up full court defensively in the G-League,” he said.
“He’s super-efficient offensively and doesn’t waste time getting to his spots. He can score but also moves the ball for better opportunities.
“He attacks the rim with purpose and has shown that he can create for others as a secondary ball handler.
“Rob comes with glowing reviews from his previous clubs about being a high character, hardworking, and tough competitor.
“He embodies the gritty attitude we emphasise and will be a welcomed addition to the team.”
The Taipans have one import spot and two local (non-restricted) positions remaining to fill.
Originally published as NBL: Taipans Boost Backcourt with Signing from NBA G League
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