Basketball: Tai Wesley returns to help Wellington Saints defend title

Tai Wesley will return to the Wellington Saints in 2018. Photo / Photosport.

The Wellington Saints are one of the most storied franchises in the New Zealand National Basketball League (NZNBL).

The side have won 10 championships in the 35-year history of the year and have gone back-to-back four times. In 2017, they went through the season undefeated.

However, for all their achievements, one accolade still alludes them - they're yet to complete a three-peat. But they're looking at the 2018 season as an opportunity to do just that, announcing the return of Tai Wesley.

The Guam international, who is currently signed with Melbourne United in the Australian NBL, has been a member of the Saints foundation for the past two seasons, averaging 18.7 points and 8.1 rebounds per game in 2017.

Tai Wesley plays for Melbourne United in the Australian NBL. Photo / Photosport.

Saint coach Kevin Braswell piled on the praise for Wesley and was happy to have secured him for another season.

"Not only is he the best post player that is playing on this side of the world, but he is an incredible guy that brings so much more than just his basketball skills to the club.

"The culture that we have created here in Wellington is amazing and he is a huge part in keeping our success going."

After their dominance in 2017, the Saints are likely to go into this season as heavy favourites to secure their third titles in as many years.

They'll begin their campaign on April 27 at home against the Southland Sharks.

Wesley becomes the third player from Melbourne United's ANBL squad to be announced for the 2018 NZNBL season, with light-footed point guard Kyle Adnam returning to the Nelson Giants, where he'll be joined by Kiwi big man and Melbourne development player Tohi Smith-Milner.

Adnam was a major part of Nelson's resurgence last season. After starting the season in dire straits, the 24-year-old Australian was brought in and was a massive part in lifting the side from the foot of the ladder.

Smith-Milner joins the Giants after having been a part of the Canterbury Rams in 2017.