Auckland’s Will Leger is the latest player to sign on with the southern franchise for the 2025 Sal’s New Zealand National Basketball League.
20-year-old Leger has been a member of the Auckland Tuatara for the past two seasons and Sharks Head Coach Jonathan Yim is looking forward to helping shape the talented forward’s fledgling career.
“Will Leger is a big man who plays above the rim and moves extremely well for his size. His ability to impact the game both inside and outside makes him a great fit for the style of play we want to implement on both ends of the floor. Whether it’s finishing at the rim, stretching the defence, or making plays in transition, he brings a dynamic presence that will elevate our team.”
“Will’s tough and brings a level of physicality that will add another dimension to our group. His versatility allows him to play multiple positions and adapt to different roles depending on what’s needed. That kind of flexibility is invaluable in today’s game and will allow us to maximize his skill set in various situations.”
“Beyond basketball, what stood out the most was his character. Everyone we spoke to about him had nothing but great things to say, and after getting to know him, it was clear why. He’s a great fit not just on the court, but in our locker room as well. We’re really excited to have him join us,” Yim said.
Leger who kick-started his basketball career at Mt Albert Grammar School is hoping to maximise the opportunity to launch his basketball journey.
“It’s an extremely exciting opportunity to come to the Sharks for the 2025 Season. A lot of high-level players have kick-started their careers in Southland and I’m hoping I can do the same. It’s my first time away from home so it will be cool to learn and grow in a new environment.”
“Coach Jon has amazing expertise around player development and I’m excited to get to work and become a better player under his guidance. It’s obvious he cares about his players not just on the court but off it as well, which I think will help build a lasting connection.”
“Obviously, the main goal of the season is trying to win a chip - it would be pointless putting all the work in if we aren’t trying to win. But at the same time, just stacking the days and progressing together as a team is key. My personal goals this year are just to improve different parts of my game and hopefully give myself an opportunity to try and put them into practice on the court,” Leger said.
The Sharks’ first appointment is on the West Coast next week for the Westside Blitz where the team will play three games in four days, starting with the league’s newest entry, the Indian Panthers on Tuesday evening.
The season proper tips off a week later with the Sharks drawing three road games to start the season, opening against the Otago Nuggets in Dunedin on Friday March 14.
Season tickets are on sale now at ILT Stadium Southland and at sharksbasketball.flicket.co.nz.
