Rantall returns to basketball

GEELONG United has continued its string of signings with the acquisition of former junior Australian representative and multi-sport athlete, Jay Rantall.

The 22-year-old, who was a member of the Australian 2017 FIBA Under-16 Asian Championship and 2018 FIBA Under-17 Basketball World Cup squad, joins head coach Grant Wallace’s side alongside re-signees Cohen Blythe, Seth Garcia, Jay Posterino, and friend Liam Herbert.

Rantall, originally from Warrnambool, said he was enjoying his basketball and looked forward to making a return to high level competition.

“I’m excited to be back playing basketball again after a period of time away from the game, and the boys and coaches have been so great and so welcoming.

“I’m looking forward to what hopefully will be a successful season for the team and the organisation.”

Rantall stepped away from basketball following secondary school to pursue his dreams as a footballer, eventually getting drafted at Pick 40 of the 2019 AFL Draft.

He played five senior games for Collingwood before being delisted at the end of the 2021 season.

Wallace said the addition of Rantall was very exciting given his junior track record and capability on the floor.

“We’re really excited to have Jay sign on and return to his basketball journey.

“As a past national junior player, Jay has an elite understanding of the game.

“His quickness at both ends of the floor provide us with another valuable tool in our backcourt arsenal.

“Pairing that speed with an unselfish team first mentality, skill and ability to shoot the basketball at a high clip adds another level to our already deep roster. We cannot wait to see him playing in 2024.”