Soukop and Perry locked in for 2021 NBL1 South season

The Dandenong Rangers have Declan Soukup and Mason Perry locked in for the 2021 NBL1 season, with the two longtime Rangers part of a strong backcourt rotation.

Soukup will continue in the starting role that he has excelled in so far this NBL1 season while Perry will continue to split his minutes between Dandenong's NBL1 and VYC Ranger programs.

Both players are thrilled to be back at Dandenong especially after a year off, getting to mix with the teammates they missed during the COVID-affected 2020 non-season of basketball.

For someone who has played both at college level and overseas, being in the right spot for Soukup is particularly important as he builds his post-college life, with Dandenong Stadium feeling like home for the former Junior Ranger.

"Dandenong’s always felt like the right place for me to be," Soukup said.

"I’m comfortable here and I enjoy seeing familiar faces – I’m happy to be back.

"I’m grateful for the opportunity to compete after having had a year off.

"It’s been a lot of fun being back out on court so I’m hoping that continues."

Joining him will be NBL1 rookie Perry, who has now made his debut in the Seniors at just 18 years old.

The son of Rangers coach Darren Perry and brother of former Ranger Jack Perry, Mason is known for his similarly tough and quick style of play that is backed up by solid outside shooting.

Having played his entire representative career with Dandenong, getting the chance to play in its NBL1 team has been a big deal for Perry.

It's something he has had his eye on since he began wearing green and yellow.

"It means a lot to me as I’ve only ever played here and to play for my club at the highest level at a young age is always something I’ve wanted to achieve," Perry said.

"Being able to stick with the same club for so long and be a part of a successful association is something I am very proud of.

"I’m very grateful for the opportunity to play in a better league and develop my game as the level of the competition is something I haven’t gotten to experience before.

"I can’t wait for the chance to play at home this Saturday night."

The 2021 NBL1 South season has now tipped off with the first NBL1 Rangers home event set to take place on Saturday 8 May.