NATHAN Sobey says the security of a long-term deal and a game plan which suits his playing style were the catalysts for his decision to sign with Adelaide 36ers.
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The NBL club officially announced Sobey as one of its off-season recruits on Tuesday.
Sobey, 24, has inked a three-year deal with the 2013-14 grand finalist.
The 190-centimetre guard joins the 36ers after one season on Cairns Taipans’ roster.
Sobey said he was excited to represent Adelaide – a club which boasts Australian Boomers representative Adam Gibson.
“I got a multi-year deal and get to move closer to home,” he said.
“I think my game suits Adelaide, which is one of the main reasons (for joining it).
“They play a lot in transition, play above the rim and a faster type of basketball and that suits the way I am playing at the moment.”
Sobey played 10 games for Cairns but spent its losing grand final series on the bench.
The former Ballarat Miner, who spent four years in the US college system, feels prepared to take the next step with Adelaide.
“I think I was ready last year but I just didn’t get big opportunities I wanted,” he said.
“But the minutes I got last year proved I am ready.”
Sobey said he was eager to play under 36ers coach Joey Wright – someone who showed an interest in him shortly after his college career at Wyoming ended.
The 36ers, who have added former Melbourne United forward Lucas Walker to their roster, made the playoffs last season, falling to eventual champion New Zealand Breakers in the semi-finals.
Sobey said Adelaide was a proud club, eager to push for another top four finish.
“Everyone wants to win a championship,” he said.
“We have to work hard and move forward and have to put all the tools together, which the club is doing at the moment.
“We have to work hard in the pre-season to go all the way.”
Sobey, who is still in Queensland, plans to visit Warrnambool before pre-season training.
