Bruton keen for pre-season to start

Adelaide 36ers coach CJ Bruton is excited for the NBL23 season and can’t wait for pre-season to start next month.

Bruton, who visited the HomeStart Finance School Holiday Clinics at the Adelaide 36ers Arena on Wednesday, said fans should be pumped about what his new-look roster will bring this season.

“A lot of work has been done this off-season, both on and off the court,” Bruton said.

Signing import pair Antonius Cleveland and Robert Franks was high on Bruton's wishlist.

“They are both elite players from last year,” Bruton said.

“Cleveland was defensive player of the year, his on-ball defence and his athleticism has shone throughout the year and Franks lit it up from the three-point line. He was tough to scout.

“I had my eye on those two from when our season finished.

“I want to play fast and to play smart and play with a lot of energy.

“The passion here with this club and this franchise has been a staple and I don’t want to lose that side of it.

“I will also put more own flair to it and the players will as well and fit our structure.”

Bruton said Franks, who played NBA Summer League with Boston Celtics, has recovered from off-season eye surgery and is ready to start his 36ers journey.

“He says he can see the hoop even better this year,” Bruton said.

“You need to have multiple guys who can play multiple positions.”

NBL23 memberships are now available, please find more information here.