Dech departs Hawks, joins Adelaide 36ers

On Wednesday morning, the Adelaide 36ers announced they had signed the talented guard on a three-year deal.

Dech enjoyed a breakout season with the Hawks in 2019/20, averaging more than nine points, nearly four rebounds and 1.48 assists per game. His performances put him into the NBL's Most Improved and Best Defensive Player calculations.

Dech had indicated last month that he wished to repay the faith that the Hawks had shown in him. However, the 26-year-old also admitted he would explore his free agency opened in July.

But the Hawks' loss is Adelaide's gain.

"Coach [Conner] Henry's vision for the team excited me," Dech said.

"I can't wait to continue my development as a player and to compete at the highest level possible. Also, playing with my childhood friend Keanu Pinder is really special and something I look forward to."

See more: Grida signs on with new-look Hawks

Henry said with Dech joining the team's young backcourt, they feel like they had added "another piece to the puzzle for the long-term future of the 36ers".

"Sunday brings both a defensive mindset and athleticism that we need at our club," he said.

"His leadership skills and character are impressive and we are excited to add Sunday to our team. He is going to work hard every day and help us get to where we want to be - building ourselves into a championship contending program."

It has been a mixed bag for the Hawks since the NBL's free agency period began last week.

Former Illawarra Hawks captain Todd Blanchfield left for Perth while homegrown talent Angus Glover joined rivals Sydney Kings.

However, the club - which dumped the Illawarra name under the new ownership - officially signed Daniel Grida on Tuesday to join Emmett Naar and Deng Deng on the roster.

Ffrmer NBA talent Deng Adel is also expected to sign on to play under coach Brian Goorjian.