D2.0
Years ago
And if so, where?
When he played for United, he was supposedly working on it, but then went back to NZ and we didn't hear any more.
He may have left it too late, but is fast approaching the point where he just can't hack it as an import.
(Don't get me wrong, he's still better than many imports, especially those recruited by SEM, but those guys haven't lasted.)
He's the guy who refuses to wear glasses or contact lenses.
JD
Years ago
I rate him. He has only recently come back from an extended injury layoff. I don't think you can grade him yet on how he compares vs other imports. At his best he’s still just about the best on the block, solid passer and can hit the outside 3.
He would be pretty stupid if he hasn't already got ball rolling. Wouldn't think he would be too far off the mark cash wise currently as either import or local but in a couple of years would see his salary remain fairly high even if his production drops and not worth an import spot. And cashed up clubs would really be after him then.
Surprised a lot more imports go after naturalization earlier in career. Can see it's a great lifestyle here and numerous imports before have called Australia home, why not as a business decision become an Aussie and become a more valuable commodity. What Slovenia did with Anthony Randolph and push his paperwork through early was beneficial for both sides, country filled need and player gets European passport.
Naturalise him now, he's a grown man with mouths to feed!
Perthworld's big brother
Years ago
Do you mean will Tai Wesley Naturalised?
MACDUB
Years ago
Problem is he will be 34 by the time next season starts which is no spring chicken. I think a lot of fans forget his age.
Whether or not he naturalises, I think that, regardless, he won't have too long left of his career (and he will find it hard to command big dollars and/or get a gig as he continues to age and his production declines - especially with the continued talent coming from college returnees who are a lot cheaper).
"Do you mean will Tai Wesley Naturalised?"
Who else would he mean?
I remember the farce that was him being allowed to play as a local for United, the reasoning being that he would be lost to the league if he had to play as an import. He made the all NBL 2nd team and helped Melbourne "win" a title, and has signed contracts for two different teams since then.
D2.0
Years ago
"Problem is he will be 34 by the time next season starts which is no spring chicken. I think a lot of fans forget his age."
Correct.
Whilst he can hold his own as an import, no problem. But his output will start dropping off over the next season or so.
Some teams have slots for "bargain imports", but not all, and be counted as a local would certainly widen his career options.
"Is he naturalising as a kiwi or aussie"
That's part of the question. I don't know what the Kiwi rules are?
It could be that moving between the two nations has hindered his chances?
Has he even got PR in either country?
His son was born in NZ.
Reality
Years ago
So why both Naturalise a guy who is out of the league in 2 years and can't be a possible boomer? What value dos he really add other than taking a job of a local?
Surely better to focus on guys like Bryce Cotton who might add value to the national team.
Perthworld's big brother
Years ago
Considering the three import rule Wesley would still be a quality addition to any teams bench.
koberulz
Years ago
So why both Naturalise a guy who is out of the league in 2 years and can't be a possible boomer? What value dos he really add other than taking a job of a local?You seem to be under the impression the sport's governing body naturalises people, instead of people doing it themselves.
Surely better to focus on guys like Bryce Cotton who might add value to the national team.
"What value dos he really add other than taking a job of a local?"
"Dey took 'er jerbs!! Derr derker deeerrrrrrrr!!!"
Corey Suicide Williams
Years ago
#952, Wesley was grandfathered in following the dissolution of the Oceania player rule. He was under contract as a local, and when that contract expired he was only able to sign as an import. Other teams also had players from Oceania region on their rosters, just very few of them were long term NBL prospects.
Yes I know. I'm saying that he shouldn't have been allowed to play as a local after the Oceania rule was discontinued as a) he was evidently good enough to be a top ten player in the league, and b) it allowed a team to win a title with effectively a fourth import.
Perthworld's little bro
Years ago
no need to fear bro sydney kings getting the fourth import this year so Larry is sharing it around at least
perth still gonna win the chip doe
If they do it will be the first time ever that a team won a title after being swept out of the semi finals
Perthworld's big brother
Years ago
Hope Perhaps win da chip.
Us Perthworld brothers, Dazz, Koberulz and others gonna party hard.
Perthworld’s step mum
Years ago
Party like its 1995 with Ricky Grace and Aaron Trahair
Perthworld's big brother
Years ago
Don't forget Craig McAndrew and Matt Earp.
Perthworld’s step mum
Years ago
oh yes that massive frontline of Vlahov, Fisher and Crawford..
Perthworld's little bro
Years ago
dat front line is all natural too!!!
Perthworld's big brother
Years ago
I forget which year Earnest Ross played for Perth.
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