It appears that South East Melbourne will be a man down for the foreseeable future, following an announcement that the team has terminated Devin Thomas’ contract.
According to a statement released by the Phoenix, Thomas is being released following multiple breaches of his contract, as well as breaches of the team’s code of conduct.
The @SEMelbPhoenix have terminated the contract of Devin Thomas #NBL22
— The NBL (@NBL) December 30, 2021
Read more here: https://t.co/oiscfDYbrT pic.twitter.com/15tKI0YsA1
Thomas leaves the NBL having never suited up for a game, following a tumultuous and frustrating month-long ordeal.
The 27-year-old American-born player - who most recently played for BC Kalev/Cramo in the Latvian-Estonian Basketball League - was forced into a 14-day quarantine on November 25th, after he was deemed a close contact due to a COVID-19 case on his flight from Sydney.
This situation presents a unique opportunity for the Phoenix, who are currently second on the NBL ladder with a record of 3-1, and now have the chance to sign another player who could bolster their title chances even further.
There was speculation earlier in the season that they would pursue Phoenix part-owner and former NBA player Dante Exum before he signed with Barcelona.
However, with Exum’s contract only three months long, there is still the chance he could join the team later in the season if they have the available roster spot.
Another former NBA player who could be on the Phoenix’s radar is Thon Maker, the 24-year-old Australian who many speculated was considering a homecoming following his own parting of ways with team Hapoel Jerusalem.
Maker’s brother Matur and cousin Makur both play in the NBL for the Sydney Kings, meaning Thon signing with South-East Melbourne would present an opportunity for all three to share the court together.
