Star guard ready to take Phoenix back to the finals in inaugural NBL1 North season

After a standout 2020 QSL season leading the team to a semi-final appearance, Jamaal Robateau has re-committed to the Sunshine Coast Phoenix for the inaugural NBL1 North season in 2021.

A talented local Maroochydore junior, Robateau earned a scholarship to play Division 1 US college basketball at Gardner Webb University before returning to the coast in 2018 to debut for the Phoenix in the Queensland Basketball League (QBL).

On the back of his first-year performance, he was offered an NBL development contract with the Adelaide 36ers, before heading north to the Rockhampton Rockets for the 2019 QBL season where his scoring prowess led the team to a top-four finish.

Returning to the Phoenix during the COVID-19 disrupted 2020 QSL season, Robateau took his scoring and playmaking to another level, averaging 26.5 points to go with 5.7 rebounds and 5.5 assists, with his efforts recognised by a call-up to the NBL with the Brisbane Bullets for the past six weeks.

With that contract completed, Robateau’s focus has turned to the challenges of the upcoming NBL1 North season including the first up clash with local rival, USC Rip.

"I’m very excited about this coming NBL1 North season with the Sunshine Coast Phoenix," he said.

"With the squad we have assembled I think we have a group that can challenge any team on any night.

"Kicking off the season with the rivalry round against Rip City will be a good test and I can’t wait to get on the floor and build on our performance of last season."

Newly appointed Phoenix Head Coach Dale Ryan is anticipating big things from Robateau.

"I look forward to the opportunity of coaching Jamaal having seen his progression through juniors to a stage in his career where I believe he has the ability to be a full-time contracted player in the NBL next season," he said.

"Jamaal will be a focal point for us on both ends of the floor and his ability to contribute across many facets of the game, along with his leadership will be a key to our success."

The Phoenix Women’s and Men’s team will play part in the NBL1 North “Rivalry Round” season launch, when they take on the University of Sunshine Coast Rip on Thursday 13 May at USC Stadium.