American imports Ryan Batte and Bryce Brown will make their debuts, bringing height, talent and plenty of personality to Shepparton’s already exciting roster.
Batte, a 198cm (6’6”) forward from Cincinnati, Ohio, has previously played in Finland and Bali, while Brown, a 203cm (6’8”) centre/forward from Atlanta, Georgia, is embarking on his first professional basketball stint.
While many US players turn to overseas leagues after falling short of the NBA, Brown is right where he wants to be.
“As a kid, I wanted to play in Australia, no NBA,” he said.
“The NBA was all business and a lot of politics, it’s a more hardcore, fast-paced game over here.
“I knew the competition was going to be up there at the same level, just at a faster pace, and I like run and gun basketball, so I think it’s going to be a great experience.”
Being from a big city like Ohio, Batte said he was enjoying the “small town vibes” Shepparton has to offer.
“I’ve been here for two weeks and I can tell already, this is probably my favourite place I’ve been,” Batte said.
“Everyone is so welcoming.
“I haven’t gotten this much help from the locals in the other places, it’s really crazy how much they help out here.”
Brown is lapping up the warm weather.
“I’m a beach boy, I love being outside, I love nature, so I came here,” he said.
“I knew the weather was good and I knew the people were welcoming, so it’s been a great experience.
“I heard it gets cold, so I told my mum to send the bubble coats and the hoodies.”
Both players were sold on Shepparton by the club’s strong community vibe and basketball culture.
Batte said coach Josh Waight told him the Gators had the best fan base in Big V and that was all the motivation he needed.
“I’m looking forward to helping continue the winning culture here and hopefully bringing a championship to Shepparton,” Batte said.
“More than that, I want to be a role model and mentor in the community.
“That gave me lots of motivation and persuaded me to want to help continue the winning culture the Gators have.
“I am aware that Shepparton is always competing for a championship in the Big V and I am looking forward to bringing the basketball club a championship all while being a role model and mentor in the community.”
Brown said he’d already had kids coming up to him telling him they were ready for the Gators.
“I love the kids and I know that’s a big part of what we do,” Brown said.
“The rest of the team, those are my guys already, really loving and accepting, easy to play with and get along with.
“Most of all, they all want to win.
“I want to win as much as possible and have fun while doing it.”
The Gators take on Blackburn at Shepparton Sports Stadium on Saturday, March 29, at 7pm.
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