Atlanta NBL Canada combine a success following record turnout

Photo Credit: National Basketball League of Canada 

We are finding talent and our brand is growing exponentially within the basketball community.

The National Basketball League of Canada is considering its Atlanta combine a success after having a record turnout.

The league, which held the combine at the Suwanee Sports Academy, had 120 participants take part. It was the most-attended combine in NBL Canada history, according to Commissioner David Magley. He described the event as being unbelievable, with much of the league’s teams having staff in attendance.

It was the last event being held prior to this weekend’s NBL Canada Draft Combine.

“This summer I personally watched over 750 guys work out all over North America,” said Magley. “We are finding talent and our brand is growing exponentially within the basketball community.”

Magley said he saw a lot of “talented, hungry men” looking for their chance to play professionally. He explained that as many as 50 players from all combines combined could potentially receive training camp offers. About half of those are expected to make their opening day rosters.

Some of the players signed from combines so far this offseason include Vancouver-native Demetri Harris (Island Storm), 24-year-old Vincent Dillard (Moncton Miracles) and Troy University product Hunter Williams (Moncton Miracles).

“Assistant coach Matt Robertson saw him at the NBL Combine in (Orlando), Florida,” said the Miracles in a statement at the time of the Dillard signing in September. “He was very impressed with his talent level but even more so with how hard he played.”

Magley said the combines help give players the exposure and preparation they need to play professionally.

He went on to explain he receives a lot of positive feedback about the events, including comments given by the coaches and the opportunity to try out for a professional team. He also said the combines also help the league generate additional revenue during the offseason.

“It clearly helps the league image,” said Magley. “But we also find many players who help teams and coaches stay under the salary cap with talented guys who allow you to spend more on quality veterans.”

The NBL Canada Draft Combine takes place Nov. 19-20 at The Athlete Institute in Mono, Ont. The event starts at 10 a.m.