Nets sign globe-trotting big man and shot-blocker Pelle | Inquirer Sports

Nets sign globe-trotting big man and shot-blocker Pelle

/ 06:07 PM January 29, 2021

The Brooklyn Nets added an international big man to their “Big Three” lineup on Thursday, signing free agent center Norvel Pelle to a contract.

Pelle, who turns 28 on Wednesday, will add rebounding depth, defensive skill and a talent for shot blocking to a squad that boasts superstar guards James Harden and Kyrie Irving plus two-time Most Valuable Player Kevin Durant at forward.

Pelle, who stands 6-foot-10 (2.08m), was born in Antigua and also holds American and Lebanese citizenship.

Article continues after this advertisement

His family moved to the US Virgin Islands when he was three and four years later moved to the United States.

Pelle debuted for Lebanon’s national team in the 2017 Asia Cup and has played professionally in Taiwan, Lebanon and Italy.

Article continues after this advertisement

He spent the 2019-20 season with the Philadelphia 76ers, coming off the bench in 24 games and averaging 2.4 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.3 blocked shots in 9.7 minutes per game.

Pelle blocked two or more shots in 11 appearances, including a season-best four blocks against the New York Knicks, and played against Boston in the Sixers’ first-round playoff series.

The move adds another key piece to help the Nets in versatile matchups as they contend for an NBA title. Brooklyn is 12-8 this season, 1.5 games behind the first-place 76ers in the Eastern Conference.

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our daily newsletter

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

TAGS: Brooklyn Nets, James Harden, Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our newsletter!

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

© Copyright 1997-2024 INQUIRER.net | All Rights Reserved

This is an information message

We use cookies to enhance your experience. By continuing, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more here.