Yannick Wetzell joined Baskonia: 'It's been a lifelong dream to play for a EuroLeague club' / News - Basketnews.com

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Yannick Wetzell, the new player of Bitci Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz, defined himself as a "versatile center" upon his arrival in Vitoria, after signing a contract for the remainder of the season, with an option for the next one.

2-pointers this season

52%19,1Points made:19,1Accuracy:52,1%Place in standings:12Record max:27Record min:10Most made 2FGs:Wade BaldwinTeamEuroLeagueStatisticsSchedule

"I'm beyond excited to be here," the 25-year-old big man from New Zealand said,

"It's been a lifelong dream to play for a EuroLeague club. So, to get this opportunity to play in Spain and the EuroLeague makes me happy."

Wetzell admitted that he needs "some rest after 36 hours of flying. I've only played pro for two years and since then, I've been watching some games. I'm excited to play against some of the best players in the world."

Wetzell averaged 17.7 points (FG 60%), 8.2 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and one block per game in 22 NBL appearances with the New Zealand Breakers in his home country this season.

He was the top scorer of his team, playing alongside former EuroLeague point guard Peyton Siva and projected NBA lottery pick Ousmane Dieng. The Breakers were last on the NBL standings.

In 2020-21, Wetzell made his pro-debut with the South East Melbourne Phoenix, averaging 11.2 points, six rebounds, and 1.6 assists in 39 NBL games.

"I'm a versatile power-forward/center, great on the pick n' rolls," he went on to say. Further expanding on what he does best on the court, Wetzell listed his biggest strengths one by one.

"I like to hit on the offensive board really hard. My footwork is probably my biggest forte, being able to move my feet down in the low post, screen and rolls, mid-post area, defending and being able to switch out of ball screens, guarding multiple positions and big on crashing the glass.

Baskonia, who were looking for the frontline addition for a while, didn't make the EuroLeague playoffs. They're currently 7th in the Liga Endesa.

The transferwas first reported on BasketNews.

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