Former NBA guard to replace Wildcats' axed import
The Perth Wildcats have signed former NBA guard David Duke Jnr as a replacement for axed import Mason Jones.
Jones arrived after the Wildcats lost club legend Bryce Cotton to the Adelaide 36ers in the off-season, but lasted just five games with the 10-time NBL champions.
The Wildcats have moved swiftly to sign Duke, who spent time with the Brooklyn Nets, San Antonio Spurs and Phoenix Suns in a four-year NBA career.
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“We’re excited to welcome David to Perth,” Wildcats basketball operations manager Danny Mills said in a statement.
“He brings four years of NBA and G League experience, great positional size and is a high-level athlete who competes on both ends of the court.
“His ability to get downhill and put pressure on the rim is an attribute we’ve been looking for, and his versatility will allow him to contribute to winning in multiple different line-ups.”
Duke, who stands 193cm tall, is expected to arrive in Perth and join his new teammates early next week, though the deal is still subject to NBL approval.
“He will allow our defence to continue to grow as he’s elite at the guard spot,” Wildcats coach John Rillie said.
“He’s a dynamic open court player so he will generate some easier baskets, something this team has lacked to date.”
The Wildcats (4-3) host reigning champions Illawarra (1-4) at RAC Arena on Saturday night.
Originally published on AAP
