Phoenix Sign Developing Big Man

New Zealand big man Anzac Rissetto will join the South East Melbourne Phoenix as a development player for the 2022/2023 Hungry Jack’s NBL Season.

The 208-centimetre centre most recently lined up in the NZNBL, and averaged 10.4 points and 5.2 rebounds across this year for the Franklin Bullets.

He also spent three years at the University of North Carolina, in Charlotte.

"I think the direction the club is moving in and the work that the club is doing in the community was a big attraction for me," Rissetto told the club’s website.

"… as well as being able to learn from coach Mitchell and banging bodies with players like Reuben Te Rangi, Alan Williams, and Mitch Creek every day is why I wanted to come to South East Melbourne."

The 21-year-old comes from New Zealand M?ori sporting royalty, a descendant of one of the founders of NZ rugby, Thomas Ellison. He is also related to Tamati Ellison and former NFL star Riki Ellison.

He spent time at the Wellington Saints and Nelson Giants, before his most recent tenure in Franklin.

"The NZNBL isn't as strong as the (Australian) NBL yet, and I think that the jump to the NBL is the next step for myself in my career," Rissetto said.

"A major goal is to come in and soak up as much as possible from everyone. While also focusing and continuing to do what I do best. Being a physical presence, locked in on defence and being a great teammate."

Phoenix coach Simon Mitchell welcomed the club's newest addition.

"Anzac's coaches in New Zealand admire his work ethic and ability to take on defensive assignments against big-name players in the NZNBL," Mitchell said.

"He has genuine size, is a competitor and comes from a family full of pro-athletes. We have succeeded with young kiwis coming into the Phoenix and improving rapidly, and I expect Anzac will join that list."

Rissetto joins fellow development player Owen Foxwell, along with the full-time roster players; Kyle Adnam, Grant Anticevich, Ryan Broekhoff, Gary Browne, Mitch Creek, Trey Kell, Junior Madut, Dane Pineau, Reuben Te Rangi and Alan Williams.

The Phoenix has one more local roster spot to fill.