Miners lock in US import

AMERICAN Marqueze Coleman will be a Hotondo Homes Ballarat Miner for 2019.

The 193cm tall guard originally from L.A. played four college seasons with the University of Nevada Wolfpack before being taken by the Iowa Wolves in the NBA’s 2016 development league draft.

“I’m looking forward to coming to Ballarat. I can’t wait to get there and get started,” Coleman said.

“I’m excited to get the season started and excited to meet the Ballarat fans.”

More recently Coleman has had stops in Germany with the Dresden Titans and Portugal with the Terceira Basket.

He played big minutes at both clubs and was shooting just under .500 last season.

“I think I’ll bring versatility to the group on the offensive and defensive end,” Coleman said. “I can play multiple positions on the offensive end and can guard multiple positions on the defensive end.”

Miners Head Coach Brendan Joyce welcomed Coleman’s signing and noted his range of experience in both Division 1 of the NCAA and in Europe.

“Marqueze had a quality college career with Nevada and another positive is that he also has some international experience playing in Portugal,” Joyce said.

“We are excited to have what appears a quality player coming to the Miners this season.”

Basketball Ballarat Miners senior elite team chair, Matt Sheehan, said Coleman came highly recommended on and off the court.

“His Nevada coaches have given him glowing references as a person which is an important attribute we look for as we want [players] to fit into our Ballarat community,” Sheehan said.

Coleman joins local Sam Short and Fijian international Josh Fox on the Miners list of key announcements for the upcoming season.