Another 2019 member of the SIT Zero Fees Southland Sharks has re-committed to the team for 2020 with Hyrum Harris the latest to add his name to the roster for next season’s Sal’s New Zealand NBL.
The 23 year old 198cm forward was a big contributor last season, averaging 11 points, 5 rebounds and three assists per game, which ultimately forced his way into the team's starting five and caught the eye of Australian NBL side, the Illawarra Hawks, who signed him as a Development Player for 2019-20.
His versatility and team first attitude shone through in 2019, as he turned his hand to whatever then coach Judd Flavell required. New Sharks’ Head Coach Rob Beveridge was suitable impressed.
“Hyrum is a really exciting up and coming player and I am looking forward to coaching him. He has great versatility and with his ability to play multiple positions he is going to be a key member of the Sharks this season,” Beveridge said.
Harris’ rapid development last season made him a man in hot demand this off-season. Ultimately, the chance to play under Beveridge and in front of the Shark Tank faithful was too good an opportunity to turn down.
“I’m happy to be back. We didn’t get the job done this season so I’m looking forward to getting it done next year. I’m excited to play at ILT Stadium in front of the best home crowd in the League.”
“I’ve spoken to a couple of the Illawarra boys over here about Bevo (Beveridge) and they have just said good things about him. I’ve talked with other coaches and they regard him as one of the best coaches coming out of the ANBL. So I’m excited to learn from him and just be a sponge and soak up all the knowledge he can offer,” Harris said.
Harris is hoping his time with the Illawarra Hawks over recent months will be the springboard into a full time professional roster.
“It’s been awesome. I’ve learnt heaps. We’ve got veterans like David Anderson here who has played all over the world, so you pick up knowledge from him. Then you’ve got our imports, Josh Boone who has played in the NBA like Dave and we had Aaron Brooks another NBA guy, so you try and learn from their experience.”
Then, there is the unprecedented attention American draft prospect LaMelo Ball is generating.
“Everyone sees what he can do. They all know he can hoop. It’s crazy that he’s just 18 years of age. I mean I know what I was doing it 18 and it wasn’t getting triple-doubles in the ANBL. He’s definitely on another level’” Harris said.
Tickets for the 2020 Southland Sharks season will be on sale via ILT Stadium Southland prior to Christmas.