Wieskamp: 'NBL my time to shine'

Joe Wieskamp believes a strong season in the NBL could be the perfect pathway to another opportunity in the NBA.

The new South East Melbourne Phoenix signing made 38 NBA appearances with the San Antonio Spurs and Toronto Raptors between 2021-2023, more recently boasting strong numbers with the Maine Celtics in the G League.

Still only 24 years old, Wieskamp says the focus on the NBL from scouts across the globe will ensure he has his time to shine.

“The NBL is a similar style of play to the NBA. It’s well scouted by the NBA and I feel it’s a good platform for me to play and it’s a great opportunity,” Wieskamp told the club’s website. 

“Everything the Phoenix have to offer in terms of development is great, I get to come and work on my game, be a guy that can help try and win games for the team.”

Wieskamp was the 41st overall pick at the 2021 NBA Draft, after an impressive college career which saw him as a third-team and second-team All Big Ten member across consecutive seasons.

He now joins the Phoenix, alongside fellow star signings Derrick Walton Jr, Nathan Sobey and Jordan Hunter.

“I’m a great shooter, and I feel like I’m a good rebounder ... I’m able to get downhill and finish at the rim and I finish well at a high rate,” Wieskamp said. 

“I think for a wing position being a guy that can rebound defensively, and attack the offensive glass and get easy put backs are my strengths.”

Wieskamp, who jumped an astonishing 106.6-centimetre vertical at the NBA Draft Combine, is currently at the NBA Summer League with the Minnesota Timberwolves, before making his way to Australia with his wife and young gun to link up with the Phoenix.

Read the full story here >> Wieskamp: Phoenix Key to NBA Return