Rasmussen re-signs

The Adelaide 36ers have re-signed promising young guard Keanu Rasmussen for the NBL27 season.

Still just 22 years-old, Rasmussen has played 38 NBL games for the Sixers across the last three seasons including hitting the court on 15 occasions in NBL26.

While his NBL game time was limited in NBL26, he was called up and made his debut for the New Zealand national team, pulling on the Tall Blacks jersey in two 2027 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers in February and March.

Since joining the club as a development player in 2023, Rasmussen has impressed coaches and teammates with his work ethic and versatility, seeing him elevated to the main roster.

His talent was on show in the NBL1 Central competition last season where he delivered a dominant campaign with the West Adelaide Bearcats, earning league MVP honours while averaging 23.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, 5.5 assists and 2.2 steals per game.

Adelaide 36ers GM of Basketball Operations Matt Weston said the club was excited to continue investing in Rasmussen’s development.

“Keanu is someone who has come through our system, embraced the work, and continues to improve every year,” Weston said.

“His performances at NBL1 level and his selection for the Tall Blacks show the trajectory he’s on.

“We believe he has a lot more growth ahead of him, and we’re committed to helping him reach that next level.

“He’s a high-character individual who brings energy every day, whether that’s in training or on game night. Those qualities are incredibly important to the culture we’re building here.”

Rasmussen is currently playing in the NZNBL with the Hawkes Bay Hawks where he has averaged 21.6 points, 4.3 assists and 5.4 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game across eight games so far.