Taylor Britt is back home for his fourth Sal’s NBL season and is looking to bring the winning ways he had across the ditch back with him.
The point guard was a development player for the Perth Wildcats for the 2019/20 ANBL, where they won their fourth title in the last five years.
Britt says training with the likes of Bryce Cotton (two-time ANBL MVP and Finals MVP), Damian Martin (six-time ANBL champion) and Nick Kay (2019 Sal’s NBL MVP) was invaluable.
“Being able to see what guys like Bryce, Damo (Martin) and Nick do behind the scenes made me a better player because it showed me what it takes to get to their level.
“They’re also great leaders and especially with me being a point guard, I picked up little things and they challenged me to be more vocal.
“I wouldn’t say I’ll try to replicate what they taught me back here, but I’ll do my best to help make the boys better.”
The 23-year-old is set to take on more of a starting role this year in the wake of the competition’s reformatting.
He was primarily a back-up for the Wheeler Motor Company Canterbury Rams the past three seasons, providing impact in a sixth man-like role for Christchurch-based club.
Britt says locking down a starting spot is the goal, but that he will play wherever is best for his team.
“I think you should always be aiming to start in whatever sport you’re playing, although it doesn’t mean you can’t have any influence on the game if you aren’t.
“I’d be lying if I said it isn’t something I want to have this year [a starting spot], but winning tops everything.
The lefty also mentioned how excited he was to be back playing basketball properly soon.
“I was fortunate to have a hoop at home and I did get some stuff done, but nothing beats a proper run.
“I stayed in contact with most of my mates over the break and we made a point to have something in place when we got back to Level 2.”
Britt is one of over 200 players to have registered for the Sal's NBL Player Draft, which includes close to a dozen Tall Blacks.
The season tips-off in four weeks time, with the Taranaki Steelformers Mountainairs and Mike Pero Nelson Giants opening the season on Tuesday 23 June at 5:30pm.
