Miners sign American guard

THE Ballarat Miners have added some more international flavour to their elite men’s squad, with David Crisp the club’s first import signing since 2019.

Crisp, a 183-centermetre point guard, is a NCAA Division 1 Washington College basketball product where he socreed over 1000 points with the Huskies and he played alongside Boomer Matisse Thybulle.

After an unsuccessful tryout with the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers, Crisp was drafted in the NBA G-League with Stockton in 2019.

Most recently, he plied his trade in Denmark in the 2020/21 season and averaged 11.5 points, just over four assists and just over 2.5 rebounds per game.

With play in the NBL South season just over a month away, Crisp said he’s looking forward to making an impact for Ballarat this year.

“I signed with Ballarat because it felt like the best team for me to come in and contribute in a big way, being that coach and myself have the same goals, aspirations to win, and philosophy as far as our approach to the game,” he said.

“I will bring great energy, leadership, and an uplifting spirit to the team, these things are huge for a team that is not measured in a stat sheet, but the team and organisation feel it.

“I’m looking forward to meeting all of my teammates, coaches and staff. I am excited to see and experience the community as well.”

Miners men’s head coach Luke Sunderland said Crisp will be a great addition to the club both on and off the court.

“His career at the high major level is outstanding, playing alongside several NBA players throughout his career while playing a big role in the team himself,” Sunderland said.

“David is also an outstanding person who I have no doubts will be embraced by not only the club but the wider Ballarat community.”

Crisp is due to arrive in Ballarat by mid-March.