FOLLOWING the shock sacking of Will Cummings last week, the SEM Phoenix wasted no time in replacing their shooting guard, adding the services of experienced gun Abdel Nader on Tuesday morning.

Nader brings 200 games of NBA experience to the National Basketball League (NBL), and will suit up for the Phoenix for the final 10 rounds of the season.

South East Melbourne is coming off an impressive road victory over the Sydney Kings in Round 10 of the 2023/24 season, a result that was produced without Cummings, who was released after allegedly failing to meet the club’s off-court standards.

Currently placed nicely in third spot, the Phoenix’s postseason hopes have been boosted by the addition of Nader, who will slot in nicely to the two or the three.

Standing six-foot-five, Nader can play either the shooting guard or small forward positions, and could rotate between both given the season-ending injury to Craig Moller in recent weeks.

During his time in the NBA, Nader suited up for multiple teams over the span of five years, including making an appearance for the Phoenix Suns in the Finals in 2021. He broke onto the scene in 2017 with an excellent campaign in the D-League where he was named Rookie of the Year and an All-Star.

Throughout his professional career, Nader worked on his body to adapt to the modern game and become more athletic. Pairing this with his improved three-point shooting and solid size should see the 30-year-old play a key role in the NBL.

Playing alongside the likes of Mitch Creek, Alan Williams and Gary Browne, Nader and the Phoenix will have no shortage of talent on the court as they push for the playoffs later in the season.

Phoenix CEO Tommy Greer said the team was proud of the signing and excited to see what Nader can bring.

“Mid-season roster changes, although difficult, provide great opportunity,” Greer said. “We believe Abdel will bring great experience, talent and competitiveness on both ends of the floor.

“He possesses all the skills required to be a great complement to the roster we currently have.”

Nader lands in Melbourne on Thursday for his physicals, the same day in which the Phoenix face off against Melbourne United in the latest instalment of the Throwdown series. The wing’s official debut date is yet to be announced, but he will have an immediate impact on one of the NBL’s contending sides.