Tasmania Lock in Import Rashard Kelly

The Tasmania JackJumpers have announced the signing of import Rashard Kelly on a one-year deal ahead of the 2022/23 Hungry Jack’s NBL season.

6’7 Kelly is a versatile power forward currently playing in France’s LNB Pro A as a starting five player with JDA Dijon Basket.

“Rashard is an incredibly mobile forward, who we think will bring the size and versatility we’re looking for” CEO Simon Brookhouse said.

The 26-year-old American has averaged 11.4 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 38 games for Dijon, including a season-high 28 points against ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne earlier this year.

“Rashard has a really impressive resume and has been dominant for Dijon this season, playing a lot of minutes. But importantly, we also think he has the right attitude and personal attributes that will complement our group, and a willingness to buy in to the systems and foundations that we were able to build in our first season. 

“Rashard has always been part of winning teams, from the Collegiate to professional level and his willingness to do the little things that build to overall team success.

“I think JackJumpers fans will love his versatility and work rate. He’s a really exciting player who can play above the rim and also defend at a very high level” Brookhouse said.

Kelly graduated from Wichita State University in Kansas in 2018, playing with the Wichita State Shockers is the NCAA Division 1 college basketball program.

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

Kelly is the JackJumpers 11^th player and second import secured on the roster for the 2022/23 season, following the re-signing of Josh Magette.

Kelly will arrive in Tasmania in August for JackJumpers pre-season training.