DeAndre Daniels

The Property Brokers Manawatū Jets have made a statement move ahead of the 2021 Sal’s NBL season, signing former University of Connecticut (Uconn) standout and 2014 NBA draft pick DeAndre Daniels for this year’s campaign.

The 6'9" (2.06m) forward from Los Angeles was a key player for the Uconn Huskies' 2014 NCAA championship team and was named in the Final Four All-Tournament team, before being drafted by the Toronto Raptors with the 37th pick in that year’s NBA draft.

After playing for the Raptors in the NBA Summer League, Daniels was loaned out to the Perth Wildcats for the 2014-15 Australian NBL season and averaged almost 15 points and eight rebounds in 30 games. He then headed back to the US, where he played in the NBA G-League (development league) for four seasons.

Jets Head Coach Tim McTamney says he and his coaching staff spent considerable time looking at players who would best suit the team’s needs in the second import spot.

“DeAndre stood out as a player of great character, with tremendous talent and a versatile set of skills,” McTamney says.

“He’s exactly what we were looking for and will undoubtedly be a key piece in our squad. Jets fans are going to enjoy what he brings to the court. He’s an exciting player to watch and should prove to be a real handful for opposing teams.”

Daniels notes that the opportunity to ply his trade in New Zealand was a major factor in signing with the Jets.

“When I got the offer to come play in New Zealand for the Jets it was a definite yes,” he says.

“I’m excited about this opportunity. I can’t wait to start training with the team and playing under Coach Tim (McTamney). I’m also excited to play for the fans – that’s what it’s all about.”

The 2021 Sal’s NBL gets underway for the Property Brokers Jets in Auckland on Thursday 29th April when they take on the Auckland Huskies.

DeAndre Daniels in action for the Perth Wildcats against the NZ Breakers in the 2014-15 ANBL season.