Home

NBL JackJumpers sign US forward import

Ethan JamesAAP
Tasmania JackJumpers have signed American forward Rashard Kelly (pictured diving).
Camera IconTasmania JackJumpers have signed American forward Rashard Kelly (pictured diving). Credit: AP

The Tasmania JackJumpers have filled one of two vacant import spots, signing 26-year-old American forward Rashard Kelly for the next NBL season.

The JackJumpers, which made a stunning run to the grand final series in their debut season, recently announced overseas star Josh Adams, as well as MiKyle McIntosh, would not be returning.

The 203cm-tall Kelly, 26, has been playing in France's LNB Pro A with JDA Dijon Basket, averaging 11.4 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 38 games this season.

"Rashard is an incredibly mobile forward, who we think will bring the size and versatility we're looking for," CEO Simon Brookhouse said on Tuesday.

Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE

Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.

READ NOW

"Rashard has a really impressive resume and has been dominant for Dijon this season, playing a lot of minutes," Brookhouse said.

"He's a really exciting player who can play above the rim and also defend at a very high level."

The Game AFL 2024

Tasmania remain on the hunt for one more import, having re-signed American guard Josh Magette on a one-year contract in June.

Kelly, who will arrive in Tasmania in August ahead of pre-season training, graduated from Wichita State University in Kansas in 2018.

He has played with Russian club Parma and suited up in the 2019 VTB United League All-Star Game, before stints in Italy, Turkey and France.

Get the latest news from thewest.com.au in your inbox.

Sign up for our emails