Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
NBL signings have given the Sydney Kings and South East Melbourne Phoenix major roster additions before the 2026-27 National Basketball League season begins in September. The Australian clubs confirmed Harry Wessels and D’Shawn Schwartz on July 22 as preparations move towards pre-season fixtures and the NBL Blitz.
D’Shawn Schwartz joins the South East Melbourne Phoenix after two seasons in Germany, while Harry Wessels fills the final Sydney Kings roster position following four years with the Saint Mary’s Gaels.
For more basketball roster news, read how the Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Leaves Miami Heat Facing Title Gamble.
D’Shawn Schwartz adds outside shooting
D’Shawn Schwartz averaged 13.9 points and 6.1 rebounds for the Rostock Seawolves during the 2025-26 Basketball Bundesliga season. The 27-year-old forward shot 38.1 per cent from three-point range, with his 75 successful triples ranking ninth in the league.
“D’Shawn can play a multitude of positions; he can play the three, the four and even the two. He’s a two-way player and a high-quality shooter, around the 40% mark in his recent seasons,” South East Melbourne Phoenix coach Josh King said.
The tactical fit is clear after the South East Melbourne Phoenix led the NBL with 1,203 three-point attempts last season. Supporters can follow further official South East Melbourne Phoenix updates before the new campaign.
Harry Wessels strengthens Sydney Kings frontcourt
Harry Wessels arrives after representing the San Antonio Spurs at NBA Summer League and helping the Australian Boomers win the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup. The 7-foot-1 centre averaged 6.3 points and 4.3 rebounds during the tournament while shooting 60 per cent from the field.
Harry Wessels gives the Sydney Kings another rim protector alongside Keli Leaupepe and Jason Spurgin. His interior defence suits a team that led the NBL with a 108.2 defensive rating during its 2025-26 championship season.