Sharks sign American point guard

The Southland Sharks have signed American point guard Rylan Jones for the 2026 National Basketball League season.

Coach Jonathan Yim identified point guard Jones as a priority target from the outset of free agency and is thrilled to bring him into the Sharks whānau.

“I’m genuinely stoked he’s chosen to join the Sharks this season. From our very first conversations, it was clear he aligned with who we are and where we’re going.”

Jones will join the Sharks after a six-season college career in the United States. He started with the Utah Utes and finished with the Samford Bulldogs.

“Rylan is an exciting point guard who impacts the game and winning in a variety of ways,” Yim said.

“He’s comfortable running a team and controlling tempo, but he’s just as effective playing off the ball."

“He’s a true team-first competitor who values winning above all else. His ability to elevate the players around him will add real value to our group on both ends of the floor. I have no doubt he’ll quickly become a fan favourite with the way he competes and carries himself.”

Jones is equally enthusiastic about joining Southland and contributing to the team’s championship ambitions.

“I really enjoyed getting to know Coach Yim,” Jones said.

“We talked about winning a championship and how I can help the team win.”

“I believe I can bring passing, shooting, defense, toughness and IQ to both sides of the ball.”

“My goals are to win basketball games and win a championship while getting better every day with great players and people around me,” he said.

Yim has done his homework on Yim before locking him in.

“Every coach, teammate, and person I spoke to about Rylan spoke highly of his character, work ethic, and professionalism. He has grown up in winning environments and understands what it takes to be part of something bigger than himself.”

Jones has also heard plenty about the passionate Southland fan base and atmosphere at ILT Stadium Southland.

“I’ve only heard great things about Invercargill and the Sharks fans,” Jones said.

“Former Sharks player Tai Wesley told me how great the fan base is and how great the atmosphere is. I’m really looking forward to this upcoming season.”

The Sharks look forward to welcoming Jones and the rest of the team to Invercargill, as pre-season training will begin shortly.

Tickets and Season Memberships are still available at ILT Stadium Southland, with the first game on April 10th versus the Otago Nuggets.