The Brisbane Bullets are in the midst of a roster rebuild, and their latest move is a strategic one. They've signed Nate Hinton, a 27-year-old shooting guard/small forward with a proven track record of competitiveness and a defensive mindset. This addition comes as a welcome boost to the team's chances in the upcoming NBL27 season.
Hinton's journey to the NBL is an intriguing one. After going undrafted in 2020, he signed a two-way contract with the Dallas Mavericks, bouncing between the NBA and G-League. While his NBA minutes were limited, his impact at the G-League level has been significant, averaging 13.7 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists over the past five seasons. This versatility and energy make him a perfect fit for the Bullets' current needs.
The Bullets finished the NBL26 season ranked 10th in offensive rating and ninth in defensive rating, indicating a need for a player who can provide both scoring and solid defense. Hinton's ability to guard multiple positions and his relentless energy on the court will undoubtedly contribute to the team's improvement.
His signing also brings a sense of familiarity to the team. Hinton has played with several NBL alumni, including Jack McVeigh and Arnas Velička, who are now his teammates. This connection to the league and his understanding of the NBL's competitive landscape will be invaluable as the Bullets aim to bounce back from a difficult season.
In a statement, Hinton expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Bullets, highlighting his eagerness to work with Head Coach Will Weaver. Hinton's desire to bring energy, toughness, and a team-first mentality aligns perfectly with Weaver's vision for the team. Weaver believes that Hinton's competitiveness and two-way ability will make him a valuable asset, and his ambition to reach the top is a quality that Weaver values.
With Hinton's signing, the Bullets' roster is taking shape, and the team is now just one import and one local spot away from being complete. The future looks bright for the Bullets, and with Hinton's energy and skill, they are poised to make a significant impact in the NBL27 season.
