Star NBL1 point guard Michael Harris lit up NBL1 Central in 2021.
Whether it was flashy passes, big three-pointers or crafty baskets, the former Forestville gun had it all- even incorporating some massive dunks into the mix.
But now that he’s moved to Mount Gambier for the 2022 season, he knows he has to add even more to his game to match it with the talent in NBL1 South.
“I’ve got to bring a defensive presence to my game,” he says.
“I think a lot of people know that I can shoot and score but if I can be a lockdown defender, it might allow me to take that next step and get into the NBL.”
Harris had a glimpse at NBL level with the Adelaide 36ers in the 2019-20 season but has been watching from the sidelines in 2021.
“It’s a bit tough, I wish I was out there but I’m still doing stuff with them when they’re back in Adelaide,” the 30-year-old says.
“I wish I could play and get out there on the court but I guess I’ve just got to take my time and develop and work out with all the boys.
“Hopefully I can get out there next year.”
The green and black singlet is a familiar one for Harris, having played for the Pioneers as a junior.
He says the club gave him the start he needed to have a successful career in the sport.
“It does mean a lot (to be back in Mount Gambier),” he says.
“To play with a few of my mates like Kane De Wit is going to be awesome.
“To get us all in the Ice House will be a great feeling.”
As a long-time member of Forestville, Harris admits he never had intentions of moving clubs.
In fact, it was at the Eagles where he really started to grow his game.
“It’s such a great club with such a great culture and Simmo’s (Andrew Simons) a great coach,” Harris says.
“I’ve got nothing but praise for that club because they’ve done a lot for me and my development.
“They’ve given me freedom within my game to play.
“I’ve got nothing but praise for how they run that club and everyone there.”
Reflecting on the year with Forestville, Harris says there were pros and cons from their inaugural NBL1 Central season.
“It was a bit disappointing to not make it to the big dance but I thought I performed pretty well personally,” the point guard says.
“I just wish that I could’ve led us further and maybe had a run at that North Adelaide team that ended up winning it all.
“I wasn’t too upset with all the boys.
“We had a great year and we played well as a team but sometimes, the ball just doesn’t roll your way.”
