Phoenix add Matthew Hurt as latest import for NBL25

Hurt, who most recently played for the Memphis Grizzlies and their G League affiliate Memphis Hustle, averaged over 20 points, seven rebounds and a shooting percentage of over 50 percent.

At 6’1″, Hurt can play either the fourth or fifth spot and is a threat on both the inside and outside with a remarkable 3-point shooting percentage for a big player.

The 24-year-old was also a member of the world-renowned Duke Basketball program led by three-time Olympic gold-winning head coach Mike Krzyzewski, earning First-Team All-ACC honors in 2021.

Hurt also recently competed in the U.S. men’s AmeriCup qualifiers and represented his country at the national level at the 2018 FIBA ​​Americas U18 Championships, where he won a gold medal.

Phoenix General Manager of Basketball Operations Simon Mitchell believes Hurt brings a unique blend of skills to the Power Forward and Centre positions, filling the needs of both players.

“Matt is an elite shooter who commands the respect of defenders on the perimeter. A stretch big who can space the floor and create opportunities for our guards to go to work,” Mitchell said.

“Not only is Matt a deadly shooter behind the three-point line, but he can also work the paint with his touch and scoring ability, reads pick-and-rolls well and adds length to the front line.”

Hurt joins fellow American Derrick Walton Jr. and Joe Wieskamp as the three confirmed players for the Phoenix.

After acquiring Hurt, the Phoenix will have just one local roster spot left and can opt to fill the two remaining developmental player vacancies on the roster, but it is not a requirement.