The Castec Rural Pioneers have re-signed big man Akech Aliir in their first player announcement for the 2025 NBL1 South conference season.
The 23-year-old forward had a superb breakout season with the Pioneers in 2024, with his rapid progress resulting in a full contract this season with Melbourne United in the NBL.
Aliir joined the Pioneers in 2024 prior to being a development player with the Adelaide 36ers in the 2023-24 NBL season.
He moved to the Pioneers and made exceptional progress being named in the NBL1 South 2024 All Star Five Team and was an integral member of the Pioneers team that finished the regular season in top spot.
In his first season as a Pioneer, Aliir averaged 18.5 points and 10.0 rebounds, shooting 51% from the floor and 40% from downtown.
Aliir said he was thrilled to be returning to the Castec Rural Pioneers.
“I just love the team and support staff and the community in Mount Gambier. It is such a wonderful environment to play basketball,” he said.
“I cannot wait to be back and help the Pioneers to take the next step and hopefully win the competition in 2025.”
Late in the 2024 NBL1 South season Aliir committed to Melbourne United signing a development player contract for the 2024/25 NBL season with a club option to potentially be elevated to the main roster in the 2026 season.
Shortly after the preseason commenced, Aliir was elevated to a main roster position for 2025, which completed Melbourne United’s roster build for the NBL season.
Castec Rural Pioneers Head Coach Richard Hill said he was delighted with the news of Aliir’s return.
“It’s great news for our club and the basketball community that Akech has chosen to return to the Pioneers,” he said.
“He was a revelation last season making huge improvements culminating in his selection in the all-conference team and being contracted to Melbourne United.
“I cannot wait to get back to work with Akech and look forward to his continued improvement as we strive for the ultimate team success.”
Meanwhile, fan favourite Nick Marshall has informed the club that he will not be returning to Mount Gambier this season, once his NBL commitments with the Adelaide 36ers wind up.
Club president Tom Kosch said the club wanted to thank Marshall for his contribution to our community and basketball club during his time in Mount Gambier.
“Nick has advised the club that he will not be returning to the club for the 2025 season as he explores other opportunities within basketball following his NBL season with the Adelaide 36ers,” he said.
“The 2024 NBL1 South league MVP has had a hugely successful four seasons with the Mount Gambier Pioneers, arriving in Mount Gambier for the 2021 NBL1 South season.
“Over this time, Nick won three consecutive Allan Scott Medals as the men’s Most Valuable Player in seasons 2022, 2023 and 2024.
“The Pioneers Basketball Club thank Nick for his contribution and wish him all the very best for what is next for his basketball career and personally.”
