Odigie re-signs for 2024 season

AFTER sustaining a serious injury which derailed his 2023 season, Owen Odigie can’t wait for the 2024 NBL1 season to get started.

The experienced forward is one of three players committed to Geelong United for season 2024, joining captain Demarcus Gatlin and former Cairns NBL big man George Blagojevic in putting pen to paper.

Odigie missed all but opening night of the 2023 season, after undergoing surgery or a ruptured quadriceps suffered against Kilsyth.

The 30-year-old said he was looking forward to getting back on the court soon.

“I’m excited to get back on court with the boys next season after being sidelined this year,” Odigie said.

“I want to help the team return to its winning ways and get back to the playoffs next year.”

Odigie, who played 80 NBL games with Melbourne Tigers/United said his leg is starting to feel really strong.

“I’m back in the gym and doing a few things on court.

“I will be back training fully in a month or two, which means I’ll be ready to go as soon as preseason starts.”

In 20 appearances in 2022, Odigie averaged 10.3 points on 54.2 per cent shooting, 7.7 rebounds and 1.8 assists.

During a seven-game midseason stretch, he averaged 14.3 points and 8.3 rebounds, including three double-doubles, highlighted by a 21-point, 10-rebound effort against Dandenong.

Geelong United Basketball general manager of pathways, Megan Moody said the team had missed Owen’s ability and experience throughout their 2023 campaign.

“His diligence in rehabilitating such a serious injury is a credit to himself.

“Owen has shown before how important he is to our roster, and we look forward to what he can contribute in 2024.”