THE Bevo factor – and Townsville’s sudden NBL collapse – became key factors in Rhys Martin’s decision to be one of the Illawarra Hawks first signings for next season.
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Martin was in the US with his wife Danielle’s family, when discussions intensified. Brisbane had come knocking, but the Hawks, having lost NBL MVP Kevin Lisch to bitter rivals Sydney, regarded Martin as a crucial piece of the puzzle. When Townsville announced they would not continue next season, the open market became flooded with on-court talent looking for work. “Certainly, when that happened, it was no longer a players market,” he said. “It’s one thing to test your value, but stability and happiness is important and it’s a big factor in why we stayed in Wollongong.”
Martin and Kevin White, both announced on Monday on two year deals, followed key big man AJ Ogilvy on to the Hawks roster.
They’ve lost Lisch and Kirk Penney to New Zealand, Martin pointed to Beveridge’s coaching past to declare Illawarra will still be a force.
“When he beat us in the grand final series with Perth, they were a really good defensive team,” Martin said. “We had a great shooting team last season, so Bevo is able to adjust his plans to suit his players. A lot will obviously depend on who our imports will be.”
The 30-year-old expects his best form is still ahead of him, after missing the early rounds last season with a knee injury.
“I’ve learned to manage my body a bit better now I’m a bit older,” Martin said.
“Last year I pushed myself too hard during the NBL Blitz and I paid for it.”
Beveridge recognised White’s commitment to the cause last season in retaining the hard-working guard.
“Kev epitomises everything that a coach looks for in a role player,” Beveridge said.
“He is an extremely hard worker and a tremendous person who continually sacrifices himself for the good of the team on and off the court”.