He's yet to touch down on Australian soil, but South East Melbourne Phoenix’s Next Star Malique Lewis' attitude has already caught the attention of head coach Mike Kelly. 

“Fired-up” and ready to train with South East Melbourne, the 6’8 wing has impressed Kelly with his eagerness to get started.

“He’s fired-up … Malique’s trying to beat me back to Australia so he can be working out quickly, and he’s super excited,” Kelly told Phoenix Media.

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Lewis most recently played with Mexico City Capitanes in the G League, averaging 9 points and 5.9 rebounds a game.

The highly-skilled sharpshooter, who converted at more than 38 per cent from three in the past season, is considered a potential first round pick in 2025. 

“I think if he (Lewis) comes in with that attitude and with the ability he has, he’s going to make a big impact on our group,” Kelly said.

Lewis will join an exciting, new-look roster at the Phoenix, including proven scorer Nathan Sobey and Championship-winning Sydney Kings Angus Glover, Derrick Walton Jr and Jordan Hunter.

The departure of Mitch Creek is a blow, but there's plenty of reason for optimism with players like Lewis coming in.

“Starting or not starting – is not to me so important, it’s more the minutes and the impact you have in those minutes,” Kelly said.

“With the depth that we’re creating so far ... I don’t know that we need stars, I think we need guys who are going to star in their roles. 

“If we are thinking like that, I think we’ve got a chance to be really successful.”

The Phoenix’s first game of NBL25 will fall on Friday, September 20 at the inaugural HoopsFest against the Perth Wildcats.