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Reuben Te Rangi
Height: 6'6
Position: F
Last Club: Tasmania Jackjumpers
Tall Black Caps: 36
SalsNBL Games: 187
It has taken 5 SalsNBL seasons and one showdown, but the Franklin Bulls have finally penned the signature of one of South Auckland’s favourite sons. Counties legend and Tall Black star Reuben Te Rangi.
Te Rangi who was raised in Manurewa and began his basketball journey with Auckland Grammar and Counties Manukau, has always been on the Bulls signing radar. Bulls GM Jamie Reddish met with Te Rangi in 2019 to talk about playing in South Auckland.
"Signing Reuben is more than just adding a star player to our roster, it’s about inspiring our community and elevating the game in South Auckland and Franklin. I'm so excited we got his done!"
Te Rangi's expereince will bolster the strength of the Bulls heading into the season. He played his first NZNBL game with the Harbour Heat in 2012, then becoming a development player for the NZ Breakers. 13 years on, he's won 2 Australian NBL and 3 New Zealand NBL championships.
Te Rangi has consistently contributed to the Tall Blacks. His accomplishments on the national stage feature a Commonwealth bronze medal and his role as captain of the Tall Blacks in 2017. Recently, Te Rangi was selected for the 2023 Tall Blacks squad that took part in the FIBA World Cup and the 2024 team that competed in the Olympic Qualifiers.
For the past two SalsNBL seasons Te Rangi has played north of the Harbour Bridge for the Tuatara, but according to the Bulls GM, timing was right for a return South.
"Reuben’s professionalism, competitive spirit, and connection to this region make him the perfect fit for our club. He’s a role model who understands the importance of giving back, and his presence will ignite passion for basketball among our youth and fans alike." Jamie Reddish, Bulls GM.
Head Coach Sebastiam Gleim is excited to welcome another Tall Black to the club to help bolster the squad heading into game one of the 2025 season against the Tuatara.
"Reuben is an invaluable player with extensive experience and countless intangible qualities for our young team. He provides excellent balance and is a highly dedicated defender, perfectly aligning with our identity. We are incredibly proud to have him join us."
You can catch Reuben, game one, at home at the Stockyard in Pukekohe, Monday March 17 vs the Tauranga Whai - https://www.bullsbasketball.nz/event-details/franklin-bulls-vs-whai-1