Caleb Asberry is back for a second season with the Southland Sharks.
The 25 year old guard quickly become a fan favourite in the Shark Tank last season after being recruited by the club three weeks into the season following an early season import change, going on to average 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists over 16 games.
Asberry played a key role in the Sharks’ strong end to the season. He averaged over 24 points across the final five games of the season as the Sharks shook off their early season struggles to win three of those games.
Sharks’ Head Coach Jonathan Yim is excited to have Asberry’s athleticism from game one this season.
“From the moment we spoke, it was clear how much this opportunity meant to him. The first thing he told me was that he wasn’t satisfied with how last season went, and he wanted to come back to make things right. That kind of accountability and drive speaks volumes about his character and competitiveness.”
“Last year, we saw firsthand just how dynamic Caleb is on both ends of the floor. He’s one of the most athletic players in the league, and his ability to make an impact in multiple ways—whether it’s scoring, defending, or making plays in transition—makes him a huge asset for us. He’s got the skill set, experience, and mindset to be a difference-maker every night, and I’m excited to watch him take the next step—not just in this league, but in his career as a whole,” Yim said.
“On top of that, Caleb already has that ‘Cowboy’ connection with Keylan (Boone) from their time at Oklahoma State. Having that built-in chemistry is something you can’t teach and it’s going to be a big plus for us as we continue building toward the season,” he said.
Asberry who spent the New Zealand off-season playing in the Czech Republic for Olomoucko Prostejov, before his campaign was cut short by a shoulder injury jumped at the chance to return to the deep south.
“I’m extremely blessed and honoured to be coming back to the Shark Tank for another year. The result of last season didn’t sit right with me and when Coach Yim called there was no way I was passing up the opportunity for redemption,” Asberry said.
“First and foremost, I want to thank Coach Yim for bringing me back. There are a lot of imports he could’ve brought in, but he chose me and that shows how much trust and belief he has in me. With his experience and the team that’s being built I’m excited to see how the season unfolds.”
“After my injury I’ve been home, focusing on rehabbing and getting my body right. Now I’m back to 100 percent and I can’t wait for everyone to see the work I have been putting in.”
Now, that will be music to Sharks Fans ears.
Season tickets to all 11 home games are now on sale for 2024 members from ILT Stadium Southland and sharksbasketball.flicket.co.nz. Public sales will follow next week.
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