Wildcats add Phoenix Summer League star

The Perth Wildcats have locked in their second import of NBL24, and have signed former Besiktas and Georgia Tech forward Jordan Usher to a one-year deal.

Usher most recently represented the Phoenix Suns at the NBA Summer League, where he participated alongside new Wildcats teammate Keanu Pinder and NBL23 Sixth Man of the Year Barry Brown Jr.

He spent last season playing for Turkish side Besiktas where he averaged 14.4 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game across 29 appearances in the Turkish Basketball Super League.

He made four appearances for the Suns at Summer League, with his best performance coming against the Memphis Grizzlies where he added 13 points, four rebounds, five assists and a pair of steals in a 102-79 win.

“I feel like I’m going to be perfect for this team,” Usher said. “I’m an energetic player and I’m excited to come and play for a championship with this team.

“I’m an elite athlete, I get out in transition, I’m a top-tier defender and I’m trying to come and get that Defensive Player of the Year award over there.

“Just being able to play for a super awesome fanbase, I’m really emotional when I play and I can’t wait to turn up the fans.”

Wildcats head coach John Rillie has a pre-existing relationship with Usher, who he recruited as a high school talent while he was assistant coaching at NCAA side Boise State.

“We’re very excited to be able to bring a player of Jordan’s talent and ability to Perth this season. He brings a level of toughness, athleticism and competitiveness that will complement our current roster,” Rillie said.

“His ability as a first year pro last year to go overseas and prove himself and play at a consistently high level in a tough Turkish League, projects well for how his game will translate to our program and the NBL this season.”