Seismic signing in NBL1 Central

The 2024 NBL1 Central Woollacott Medal (MVP) winner and Best Defensive Player Alex Starling has signed with the reigning champion Forestville Eagles for the 2025 season. 

This will be Starling’s fifth team within South Australia’s state basketball competition (formerly Premier League, now NBL1 Central), previously playing for Woodville, Southern, North Adelaide and for the past three seasons, South Adelaide.

During the NBL1 era with the Panthers, Starling has won three straight Best Defensive Player awards, the 2022 championship and Finals MVP and the Woollacott Medal this past season – standing as one of the most accomplished players in the state’s history. 

Last season he averaged 23.2 points, 11.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.9 steals and 1.3 blocks leading his team to the Grand Final where the Forestville Eagles stole the game in the final moments. 

The Eagles have now formed a superteam, joining Adam Doyle, Finals MVP Greg Mays and South Australian legend Daniel Johnson – alongside the championship core from last season. 

Upon the signing, head coach Andrew Simons said this is a major coup on and off the court.

"We are delighted to have Alex join our group. Alex is a proven winner on and off the court," he said.

"His intensity and willingness to do what it takes will supplement our existing culture. I'm really excited to have the opportunity to work with our returning group of players with Alex now included."

The NBL1 Central season starts on March 29th. Stay up-to-date with all the latest signings via the Roster Tracker here.