Norton gets his second chance
TOWNSVILLE product Mitch Norton kept his Commonwealth Games selection a closely guarded secret for three weeks, describing his late call- up for the Boomers as a “very exciting time”.
The former Townsville Crocodile was unveiled on Monday night as the replacement for Adelaide 36ers star Mitchell Creek, who has signed with a German club in his quest to break into the NBA.
Illawarra Hawks point guard Norton narrowly missed initial selection after being part of a wider squad of 18 players submitted in February.
The 25- year- old represented his country for the first time at the victorious FIBA Asia Cup campaign in August. But the disappointment of missing the Boomers boat the first time ended when coach Andrej Lemanis came knocking.
“I’ve known for about three weeks. I could only tell immediate family,” Norton said.
“Everyone was saying ‘ why are you training this early?’ and I said I just like to stay in good shape. It was tough to keep it under wraps, but it’s very exciting obviously to be a part of Games.
“From the feedback I got it was a close call when I didn’t make it, but they said to stay ready because you never know what can happen.”
His flatmate and Hawks teammate Nick Kay, who was already included in the initial team, helped him stay on track should the door open.
“After I found out I thought I may as well stay in shape and help Nick out by playing some one on one before camp,” Norton said.
“The household wasn’t divided at all ( when Norton was first overlooked). I’ve seen how hard he works and it’s good to see him get rewarded.
“Once I was announced he was pretty happy for me, but then again a bit upset because he has to put up with me a bit longer.”
The Boomers will play their pool games in Cairns, beginning with Canada on Friday.
Norton’s Townsville- based parents and younger brother Max will make the trip to watch him help Australia retain their gold medal.
“It’s going to be cool to wear the green and gold in front of family and friends,” he said. the Commonwealth