South East Melbourne Phoenix have signed American point guard Keifer Sykes as their second import for the NBL season.
Sykes, 26, joins the Phoenix from EuroLeague giants Panathinaikos, while he has also played in Turkey, China, Italy and South Korea - along with stints in the NBA Summer League and G League.
He joins fellow Chicago local Ben Moore at the Phoenix, who are keen to build on their eighth-place finish in their debut season.
"I just believed that this was my best chance to win a championship," Sykes said.
"I came over here to be a point guard, to lead, and to win. My number one thing I want to always do is win.
"I think the NBL will bring out the best in all of my abilities and that's why I'm excited to be here.
"I just want to win at the end of the day and take this team to the playoffs and see how far we can go."
Sykes, who played college basketball at Green Bay, previously attracted attention when his attempts to make the NBA were the subject of the 2018 documentary Chi-Town.
Phoenix head coach Simon Mitchell said Sykes had caught his eye while playing in Las Vegas in 2018.
"I love his speed, quickness, and tenacity. It stands out on both sides of the ball," Mitchell said.
"His ability to score or deliver to teammates out of the pick and roll is exceptional and will be enhanced with the shooting we will be putting on the floor with him. He also has that next-level athletic ability when he gets into the paint.
"Most importantly, from our discussions, Keifer just talks about winning and his willingness to do whatever it will take to win."
The Phoenix have now completed their 10-man main roster for their second season but they can still add an optional 'Next Star' prospect.
