Starling signs Sixers extension

Veteran forward Alex Starling will continue his 36ers journey in NBL25, signing a one-year contract extension with the club.

Starling, 35, played his first NBL season in NBL24, following the acquisition of an Australian citizenship. The powerful forward initially came to Australia to pursue an AFL career with the Sydney Swans, and has since become a mainstay of South Australian basketball.

He’s currently representing NBL1 Central side South Adelaide, and is the back-to-back reigning Defensive Player of the Year of the conference.

He hit the floor in 25 of the 36ers’ 28 games last season and averaged 3.8 points and 3.8 rebounds per contest.

“It’s great to have the chance to go around again, Adelaide is home for me,” Starling said.

“I feel like I learnt a lot last season and I can’t wait for the next challenge.”

Head coach Scott Ninnis believes the Starling can be even more influential in NBL25 after experiencing the level required in his debut season with the Adelaide.

“Going into this season I expect Alex will make a bigger and better impact for the club,” Ninnis said.

“He has been through his first season now and knows what to expect, so I’m really excited to see what Alex can bring to our team.”