Basketball: Turkish basketball clubs keen to take on Dickel

Mark Dickel, the Tall Blacks' point guard, is closing in on a professional contract that could see him play his basketball in the Northern Hemisphere.

The Wellington Saints player has received the most interest from clubs in Turkey.

"I found out through the grapevine that Turkey were interested," the 25-year-old said.

"My European agent heard about three weeks ago that they have numerous job offers."

Dickel also knows of opportunities in Russia and Switzerland.

Dickel, nicked-named Sparky for his livewire performances on court, has been playing for the Victoria Titans in the Australian league for the past two seasons, but the break-up of that team means he no longer wants to play across the Tasman.

"I have no interest in that now, with the coach gone and all my friends going their separate ways."

Dickel has not talked money with clubs from Turkey yet, and is more motivated by making the right career move than payment levels.

"I want to play for the best club, in the best league at this stage," he said.

"If I do well there, the money will come."

His University of Nevada friend Kasparas Kambala is playing in Turkey and has encouraged Dickel to join him.

Fellow Tall Black Phill Jones has signed a contract with Italian club Cantu, with which he will start after the world championships in Indianapolis.

National captain Pero Cameron plays professionally in England with the Chester Jets in the New Zealand off-season.