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Sydney Kings complete roster signing big man Jarell Martin, Melbourne United eye Boomer

Shayne HopeThe West Australian
Utah Jazz forward Joe Ingles (2) drives against Memphis Grizzlies forward Jarell Martin in the first half of an NBA basketball game.
Camera IconUtah Jazz forward Joe Ingles (2) drives against Memphis Grizzlies forward Jarell Martin in the first half of an NBA basketball game. Credit: Brandon Dill/AP

The Sydney Kings are still without a head coach for the upcoming NBL season but have completed their roster with the acquisition of American power forward Jarell Martin.

The 26-year-old was a first-round NBA draft selection in 2015 and spent four years in the league with the Memphis Grizzlies and Orlando Magic.

He joins a Sydney organisation that has retained the majority of last year’s grand final roster.

But the Kings have lost star forward Jae’Sean Tate, as well as retired duo Andrew Bogut and Kevin Lisch, while head coach Will Weaver left last month to join the NBA’s Houston Rockets.

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A replacement for Weaver is expected to be announced this month.

Sydney CEO Chris Pongrass worked with Martin during his time as director of basketball operations with the Grizzlies and expects the import to excel in the NBL.

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Washington Wizards guard Austin Rivers (1) has his shot blocked by Orlando Magic center Khem Birch (24) and forward Jarell Martin (2) during the second half of an NBA basketball game Monday, Nov. 12, 2018, in Washington.
Camera IconWashington Wizards guard Austin Rivers (1) has his shot blocked by Orlando Magic center Khem Birch (24) and forward Jarell Martin (2) during the second half of an NBA basketball game Monday, Nov. 12, 2018, in Washington. Credit: Alex Brandon/AP

“Jarell is exactly the type of player we were looking for to round out our roster,” Pongrass said.

“It is rare to find a 6ft 10 (208cm) versatile big who can handle the ball, push in transition and be a strong presence inside.

“Couple that with his three-point range (and) I am confident he will be a force in this league.”

Martin, who played two years of college basketball with Louisiana State University, spent 2020 in the NBA G League with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers.

He is scheduled to arrive in Sydney from the United States this month ahead of the planned NBL season tip-off in mid-January.

“I’m very excited to be joining the Kings and can’t wait to get going,” Martin said.

“I’ve heard so many great things about Australia, how good the NBL is and how much the Sydney fans really embrace the players.

“I’m looking forward to the season ahead and can’t wait to get out on court.”

Martin is the second American import to sign with an NBL club this week after 201cm forward Scotty Hopson joined Melbourne United.

United have also made a bid to recruit star Boomers big-man Jock Landale, who has impressed in Europe and is being tracked by NBA teams.

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