The SIT Zero Fees Southland Sharks have added American Brandon Lucas to its roster for this Saturday’s Sal’s NBL game against the Taranaki Mountainairs in Invercargill.
Lucas will suit up for the Sharks as injury cover for fellow import Roberto Nelson, who will sit out this weekend’s game as he continues to recover from a calf issue.
Head Coach Judd Flavell says the move is precautionary.
“Roberto is a key man for our push towards what we hope will be a spot in the Final 4. He showed in Auckland (against the Rangers) what he can generate for us at both ends of the floor, so we want to make sure he is 100%. Better to be cautious short-term to ensure he is firing for us when we really need him,” Flavell said.
Lucas knows the New Zealand NBL well, having featured prominently for the Manawatu Jets last season, playing all 18 games where he averaged 11.5 points and nearly 4 rebounds per game.
“Brandon faced us three times last season, so he knows the league and knows what we are about. I’m just looking for him to bring high energy and he’ll help us keep up the momentum on the defensive end we have built over recent weeks.”
“It’s been one of the more challenging seasons with all the injuries and coming-and-goings we have had to deal with, but there’s no excuses. It’s next man up and it’s a great chance for the rest of the squad to step up again, as they have all season and lift for another crucial game on Saturday,” Flavell said.
Tickets for Saturday’s game which tips off at 7pm are available from ILT Stadium Southland.
Image: Brandon Lucas playing for the Jets against the Sharks at ILT Stadium Southland in 2018. Credit: Diane Manson/Photosport NZ