BIO: Montrezl Harrell was born in Tarboro, North Carolina (USA). Harrell attended North Edgecombe High School, where he became a dominant force on the court, averaging 16.2 points, 12 rebounds, and 6.7 blocks per game during his senior year. His outstanding performances led North Edgecombe to a 21-3 record and a Tar Roanoke Conference Championship, earning him the conference tournament MVP award.

Seeking greater competition, Harrell spent a prep year at Hargrave Military Academy in Virginia, where he flourished under an elite basketball program. He led Hargrave to a remarkable 38-1 record, finishing as the national prep runner-up. Throughout the season, he put up impressive numbers, averaging 25.2 points, 13.6 rebounds, and three blocks per game. One of his most memorable performances came in an overtime victory over Fishburne Military School, where he recorded an astonishing 51 points, 18 dunks, 17 rebounds, and six blocks. His dominance on the court earned him recognition from top scouting services, ranking him as one of the top 100 recruits in the nation.

Harrell initially committed to Virginia Tech to play under coach Seth Greenberg, but following Greenberg’s dismissal, he was released from his commitment and reopened his recruitment. After receiving offers from Florida, Alabama, Kentucky, Cincinnati, and South Carolina, he ultimately chose to play for the University of Louisville, citing the school’s strong basketball program and home-like atmosphere.

Harrell has always been known for his relentless motor and fierce playing style, but off the court, he has a deep passion for sneaker collecting and customization. He frequently collaborates with designers to bring his unique ideas to life and took full advantage of the NBA’s relaxed footwear rules in 2018 by wearing different shoes in each half of games.

In addition to basketball, Harrell enjoys fishing and spending time with friends and family. His personal goal at Louisville was to receive a good education and become the best basketball player he could be. He credits his father and grandmother as the greatest influences on his athletic career and has always followed the best advice he received: to never give up. His admiration for Coach Rick Pitino stemmed from Pitino’s knowledge both on and off the court. Harrell’s competitive drive and work ethic have shaped him into the player he is today, and he remains proud of the person he has become.

One of the defining moments of his basketball career came when he shattered a backboard during high school practice—a testament to his power and explosiveness. His ability to dominate physically, combined with his relentless energy, made him one of the most exciting prospects coming out of high school.

FAMILY: Harrell comes from a close-knit family and is the son of Samuel and Selena Harrell. He has two younger brothers, Cadarius and Quatavius. His father intentionally added a silent “l” to his first name to make it unique. Outside of basketball, Harrell is known for his strong friendship with NFL running back Todd Gurley, who also hails from Tarboro, North Carolina.

NBL EXPERIENCE

Montrezl Harrell made his NBL debut with the Adelaide 36ers at 30 years of age. He scored 13 points in his first game.

Montrezl Harrell currently plays for the Adelaide 36ers and has played 26 games in his NBL career. He has averaged 20.7 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 1.9 assists since entering the league in 2024.

CURRENT CONTRACT:

Adelaide 36ers – 1 Year Deal (2024-25)

Dan Boyce (837 Posts)

Dan Boyce is a die-hard Sydney Kings fan who grew up in Melbourne during the roaring 90's of Australian Basketball and spent far too much time collecting Futera NBL Basketball cards.