The Brisbane Bullets have signed Brazilian point guard Raul Neto as an Injury Replacement Player for Arnas Velicka, pending NBL approval, NBL.com.au reported on Tuesday.
The 6-foot-2 guard joins Brisbane after an eight-season NBA career and two Olympic Games with Brazil, according to NBL.com.au. Fox Sports also reported the signing on Tuesday afternoon.
Neto was selected with the 47th pick in the 2013 NBA Draft and played 435 regular-season games and 29 playoff games for the Utah Jazz, Philadelphia 76ers, Washington Wizards and Cleveland Cavaliers between 2015 and 2023, NBL.com.au said.
The move comes after Brisbane confirmed Velicka will be sidelined until early December. Josh Duach will suit up for Thursday’s home game against South East Melbourne while Neto makes his way to Australia, the club said via NBL.com.au, with the signing still subject to league approval.
What Weaver and Neto said
Bullets head coach and president of basketball operations Will Weaver said Neto brings leadership from the NBA, Europe and international basketball.
“Raul brings a wealth of experience from the NBA, Europe and international basketball,” Weaver said, according to NBL.com.au. “His excitement to join us reflects the reputation our club is building and we’re excited for how he can help us compete during his time in Brisbane.”
Read more: Arnas Velicka Out Until December as Bullets Confirm Injury
Neto said he was looking for a high-level environment while preparing for Brazil’s upcoming FIBA window.
“I was looking for somewhere I could compete at a high level while preparing for the national team,” Neto said, per NBL.com.au. “The NBL is a very competitive league and a new challenge for me.”
“I’m excited for the opportunity to experience the league, compete against some great players and be part of the Bullets program. I believe in what Will Weaver and the Bullets are building, and I’m looking forward to being part of the program and competing with this group.”
Brisbane hosts South East Melbourne on Thursday from 7.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN, NBL.com.au said.
Read more: NBL: Corey Webster Signs With 36ers as Injury Replacement
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