Melbourne Tigers sign Jonny Flynn

In a coup for the Club and the NBL, the Melbourne Tigers have secured the services of American scoring sensation Jonny Flynn.

The 2009 NBA Draft pick number six has shown he can light up the world's biggest stage, and now, Australian basketball fans will get the opportunity to watch the man dubbed 'Mr Basketball' live in action from this Friday night!

At just 23, Flynn already boasts a long list of personal accolades. He shot to fame as a teenager, where his talent and ability led to a spot in the Under 18's Team USA. He took his side to a gold medal in the FIBA Americas Championship, and once again represented the United States the following year. 

Flynn's first ever college game set the scene for what was one of the most thrilling playing careers of all time at Syracuse University. He hit an incredible 28 points on that occasion, sending University records tumbling, including that set by now New York Knicks superstar, Carmelo Anthony, for the highest score by freshman on debut.

The big numbers continued to pile up for Flynn during his tenure at Syracuse, as the world came to realise his incredible ability. He collected tournament MVP awards and was among the leaders in scoring, assists and minutes. On one occasion he led Syracuse to victory in a game that rolled through an incredible 6 overtimes! On that night he played 67 out of a possible 70 minutes, led the scoring with 34 points, had 11 assists and hit all 16 of his free throws.

NBA was always Jonny Flynn's destiny, and after being selected in the first round behind reigning slam dunk champ Blake Griffin, he wowed crowds by playing all but one game in his rookie year with the Minnesota Timberwolves. In his first ever pro game he somehow dragged his side back from oblivion, erasing a 19 point deficit with a huge 13 point final quarter to get the T'Wolves over the line. That scoring capability was put on display throughout his debut season, seeing him named in the NBA All Rookie 2nd Team.

Flynn found himself the victim of unfavourable club rotations in recent times, and after a brief stint with the Detroit Pistons, a rare opportunity to secure his services arose. Having watched his incredible success story thus far, the Melbourne Tigers Basketball Club have wasted no time in moving mountains to get him 'in like Flynn', and can now proudly boast its excitement at this high profile acquisition. 

Head Coach, Chris Anstey, describes Flynn as 'possibly the highest credentialed player in the prime of his career to ever play in the NBL'. Highly sought after in several continents, Flynn ultimately chose the Tigers for its world class best practices on and off the court, with Anstey going on to say 'The Melbourne Tigers Basketball Club feel very grateful that he chose our club, and our league, as the best situation to continue to develop his game.'

After passing his fitness examination, Flynn is now awaiting clearance, however is likely to debut for the Tigers in Friday night's blockbuster against the Adelaide 36ers at Hisense Arena.

The Tigers anticipate a bumper crowd for his NBL debut, as basketball fans get their first chance to see the athletic import 'direct from the NBA' in action. Tickets for this game are now available, and it is advisable to book ahead to ensure a seat on the night (www.ticketek.com.au).

His inclusion in the playing roster means that Kevin Braswell, who filled this position until now, will be released.  Kevin has served the club to the best of his abilities, however a decision was made that Flynn would help put the Tiger's in the best possible position to achieve the organisation's high expectations for Season 2012/13. The playing group and administrative staff wish Kevin well, and thank him for his efforts.