One of New Zealand's most capped current SalsNBL players will return to play for the Franklin Bulls in 2025, eyeing another run at the SalsNBL Championship.

​​

In season 2024, Ethan Rusbatch played his 200th SalsNBL game with the Franklin Bulls vs the Southand Sharks, which fittingly was also the first ever team he played for. 2024 was another stellar year for the Tall Black, averaging 41% from the three and leading the squad to another semi-final beth, coming painfully short of the club's first ever Grand final appearance.

​​

Rusbatch recently travelled to Europe to play in Finland, being called up to play for Pyrinto Tampere.

​​

Rusbatch also join the Tall Blacks in 2024, as they attempted to qualify for the Olympics. The team started well with a win over Croatia, but were'nt able to overcome the star power of Solvenia to qualify.

​​

It's Rusbatch's experience as a professional and playing at the higest level, which makes him a key cog in the Head Coach Sebastian Gleim's squad for 2025

​​

"To have Ethan back to Bulls team 2025 is a big signing. He is leading our togetherness, train and play anytime tough and is committed in what we are doing. We wish him all the best for his season Finland and can’t wait to see him back on the court." says Head Coach, Sebastian Gleim

​​

This will be the first announced signing of New GM, Jamie Reddish, who takes on the challenge of putting together a squad to compete for a championship.

​​

"We always want to be a playoff team. That was the goal we set when we started this club. We don't want to make up numbers! That's why Ethan is key for us. His leadership above all else is something that is invaluable. We saw that last season. We know that with Ethan back in the team, we have a chance of again making the playoffs and again making a run at the chip". 

​

​

Get your season pass to see Ethan play for the Bulls in season 25.

https://www.bullsbasketball.nz/memberships