Sydney Kings guard Jerome Randle was yesterday named to the TBT 2018 All-Tournament Team. Randle represented Eberlein Drive, which after a tremendous run to the final, lost to Overseas Elite 70-58.
The Basketball Tournament, or more simply “TBT”, is basketball in its most democratic form. Teams are formed and gain entrance by garnering followers, to compete in a single elimination format for the ultimate prize of USD $2 million. Fans have latched onto the concept since its inception in 2014, in part to alumni teams and the chance to revisit the nostalgia associated with their favourite college stars of the past.
The 2017 NBL MVP joined Eberlein Drive, which was once the lowest ranked team in TBT. Randle showcased his talents across the 6 contests putting up 21.7 points per game along with 3.8 assist per game.
“It’s big for me,” said Randle of his play in TBT.
“When I get an opportunity to play here in the [U.S], I try to put on a show.”
TBT provides an opportunity, in what is a packed basketball calendar, for players who may have slipped through the cracks to show their talents. Randle will have certainly turned some heads with his performances, which can only compliment the NBL and his time spent here.
A positive sign for Andrew Gaze and the Sydney Kings that Randle will at his peak for their upcoming NBL campaign. Time will tell in terms of future TBT and NBL crossover. Given the time of year, is it worth while NBL coaches sticking around after summer league to catch a diamond in the rough? TBT is flooded with talent, with the likes of Jimmer Fredette and Kyle Fogg to name a couple. This is just another open window for the National Basketball League.
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.
