Versatile power forward Mullins re-signs with Manawatu¯ Jets for 2021 season

The Manawatu¯ Jets have re-signed young power forward Kalib Mullins.

Mullins was less than six months out of school when he was selected by the Jets with their last pick in the 2020 NBL Showdown draft.

Despite his inexperience at the top level, the Rotorua Boys’ High School product provided valuable minutes off the bench for the team, including in the grand final.

Jets coach Tim Mctamney said Mullins was a genuine surprise at the showdown. ‘‘Provided with the opportunity, Kalib showed an incredibly mature feel for the game ... He’ll continue to grow as a player this year and his contribution will be important if we’re to be successful in 2021.

‘‘I’m just really excited to have him back with the Jets.’’

Mctamney said Mullins was an excellent example to aspiring young players.

‘‘Kalib exhibits outstanding character, a selfless team-first approach.’’

Mullins’ size and strength make him a handful on both ends of the court, but he also has versatile skills that help the Jets spread the floor.

It was this combination that made him an easy selection for the fourman Jets team that competed in the 3x3 Cup in November.

‘‘Last year with the Jets was just an unreal experience,’’ Mullins said. ‘‘We just all bonded together so quickly ... To play in a [showdown] grand final in my rookie season was more than I could have ever asked for, too.’’

Mullins said he was looking forward to this season, with great talent onboard and some exciting new combinations coming into the mix. ‘‘I’m excited about it, but first ... I’ll just continue to learn from the coaching staff and my team-mates and work hard to get better each day.’’

The season starts in April.