The Wheeler Motor Company Canterbury Rams have filled their final import slot with American forward, Isaiah Wilkins, making him the 11th addition to their 2019 Sal's NBL squad.
Wilkins attended the University of Virginia where he studied and played for 4 years. In his junior year he led the university in rebounding, blocked shots and steals. He also was named to the All-ACC Defensive Team. Then in 2017-18 (senior year) Wilkins was a captain in the team while being named All-ACC Defensive player of the year.
Isaiah played alongside New Zealand Jack Salt at the University of Virginia and played for coach Tony Bennett who played in New Zealand for the North Harbour Heat. Following college he joined the Houston Rockets for the NBA Summer League and then received a training camp deal at the Charlotte Hornets. Out of his training camp deal with the Hornets he was signed to the Greensboro Swarm roster to play in the NBA G-League.
Rams Head Coach Mick Downer says Wilkins is the quality the Rams need to succeed.
“We are really excited to have Isaiah join our group, he is a high character guy who was a great defender on one of the countries most successful college programs out of the ACC in his senior year. A team captain and conference defensive player of the year who lead his team to the NCAA tournament game. It’s these qualities that have us excited about the impact Isaiah can have on our community and team. He will really help us on the glass and at the defensive end.
"Isaiah is a very efficient scorer which is suited to the international game, but the roles he has accepted in the NBA G League this season and at college has seen him play part of a team focused system which will suit the Rams style of play. We can’t wait to have him join the team here in Christchurch and help inspire us like he has done with so many of his coaches and team mates. The guy is first class.”
The Sal’s NBL Season begins on Thursday April 11, with the Rams playing the Southland Sharks on Sunday April 14.
Season memberships are available now from Cowles Stadium. For more information visit https://canterburyrams.basketball/tickets/.
