Inger becomes longest tenured current Shark

Brayden Inger has signed for a sixth season with the Southland Sharks and says the decision to do so was an easy one.

Inger has become an important and popular figure in the Shark Tank and wider Southland community over the past five seasons.

“Southland has been my home away from home the last five seasons, so it was an easy decision to return,” Inger said.

“Being the longest tenured Shark shows that the community and club is what makes this place feel like home. Through up and down seasons, it’s always been a no-brainer to return because it’s a family.”

Inger was looking forward to being back in action at ILT Stadium Southland during the 2026 New Zealand National Basketball League season.

“The fans are the best in the league, hands down, and the rest of the league know it too,” he said.

“Playing in front of them at the Shark Tank and experiencing that sort of atmosphere is something special and I’ll always look forward to that the most.”

Sharks coach Jonathan Yim said Inger is a proven contributor on the court, but also brought plenty off the court.

“He means a great deal to this community and to everyone involved with the Sharks. He has become a pillar of this club through the way he represents Southland, the way he carries himself, and the trust he has built over time. Brayden understands this place, he cares deeply about it, and that matters.”

The Southland Sharks will open its 2026 NBL campaign against the Otago Nuggets on Friday, April 10 at ILT Stadium Southland.