Kelly Vision Draws Ayre to South East Melbourne

Photo: South East Melbourne Phoenix

When it was announced that Ben Ayre would not be continuing his basketball career with the Cairns Taipans, there were a group of NBL sides jostling to be his next employer.

The South East Melbourne Phoenix beat out reported interest from the likes of Melbourne and Brisbane to sign the 27-year-old guard, and the signing of Ayre to a two-year deal was announced on Tuesday evening.

Ayre says it was the project presented to him by new Phoenix coach Mike Kelly that persuaded him to take his talents to South East Melbourne.

“Talking to Mike, the vision he has for this club moving forward and how he sees me fitting in was really appealing to me,” Ayre said. “I think they’ve built a really good core here that’s coming back, but also looking to add something new.

“It’s a real opportunity for me to add to that.

“With Mike, he just wants me to come in, bring energy and, I think, lead the group in a way.”

Ayre has joined Matt Kenyon, Rhys Vague and Gorjok Gak in committing to the club for NBL24, while the earlier re-signing of Alan Williams means the club still has two import spots to fill before the commencement of the new season.

He says his new side’s goal for the upcoming season is the same as everyone else.

“It’s always championship going in,” Ayre said, “Especially for this club. It’s been close.

“I think we’ve got a real chance this year with this group. Mike brings good experience as a head coach in that field.

“I think I’ll find my role in this team as the season gets going and just look to take it from there.”

Ayre and the Phoenix will hit the court for the first time in NBL24 in the competition’s opening game of the season, when they take on crosstown rivals Melbourne United on Thursday, September 28.