The Southland Sharks will again have the services of guard Johnny Helu for the 2025 Sal’s New Zealand National Basketball League with the guard signing on for his third season in the Shark Tank.
Helu debuted for the southern club in 2021, before aligning with his hometown Wellington Saints the following season. He returned to Invercargill in 2023 and spent last year away from the game, which has fueled his fire for a return this year.
“I’m really excited to be back with the Sharks! The organisation as a whole means a lot to me and it’s special being able to play for them once again, even more so do it whilst my partner Aliyah is playing down here as well,” Helu said.
Aliyah is of course Aliyah Dunn, the Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel’s key off-season netball signing. That connection has helped to bring Helu back to the court, as has the Sharks’ new head coach Jonathan Yim.
“I’m super pumped to get the opportunity to play under Coach Yim. Every discussion and conversation I’ve had with him has been great and I can tell he genuinely cares about his players. I do believe I’m extremely blessed to get an opportunity to work under such a high quality coach,” he said.
The feeling is mutual with Yim delighted to bring Helu back into the fold.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Johnny Helu back to the Sharks after his year away. His presence was truly missed, and we’re confident he’ll pick up right where he left off, bringing the same impact and energy that made him such a cornerstone player for this team. Johnny’s ability to elevate those around him is undeniable, and we’re expecting him to once again be a key contributor as we push toward reaching our full potential this season,” Yim said.
“Getting to know Johnny over the offseason has been an absolute pleasure. He’s shown incredible focus, motivation, and commitment to the team’s success, and his dedication to returning at the highest level has been inspiring. We’re excited to see how his determination will lift the team, and I can’t wait to work with him as we gear up for what promises to be a special season,” the coach said.
The Sal’s NBL tips off in mid-March with the Sharks on the road for the first three games, opening their home season on Saturday 29 March against the Manawatu Jets. Season tickets for all eleven home games will go on sale later this month with details here.
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