New Zealand-born centre Anzac Rissetto will return to the Phoenix as a development player for a second season (with a club option available for another season as a rostered player) after an impressive year of growth during NBL23.

The 208cm big man became a cult hero at the Phoenix due to his immense and vigorous support of his teammates from the bench at Phoenix home games, often spurring his team on and getting the crowd involved.

The high energy and care for his team also translated well on the training floor, bringing his best to every training session and remaining positive throughout the season.

Rissetto was often met with applause from the Phoenix faithful when he entered the floor during home games, with the crowd cheering on the loveable big man in hopes he would score.

"The Phoenix welcomed me with open arms as soon as I arrived last season, and it was nothing but love since then. From the front office staff to the coaches, to all my teammates, and the fans, I was welcomed and felt like I was at home," said Rissetto.

"Re-signing with the Phoenix for another two years was a no-brainer for me, to help me continue to grow and become the best version of myself both on and off the court. I can't wait to see what the next two years has in store for us."

(Fan favourite Rissetto remains at the Phoenix for two years, with the second year as a club option.)

"The energy and enthusiasm that Anzac brings to every training session, clinic and game are unmatched and something we are excited to have remaining with the club. His energy is infectious, and his support of his teammates is unwavering. We are excited to have Anzac returning and looking forward to seeing his continued development on the floor throughout the season," said Phoenix CEO Tommy Greer.

Rissetto has always taken a positive attitude to his time at the Phoenix, acknowledging the amount he can learn from teammates with more experience, none more so than 311-game NBL veteran Mitch Creek.

"I think Anzac is obviously a fan favourite, and I hope he stays around for a long time. Anzac has so much passion and love for this game, I see his ceiling being so damn high, and I want him to see that," said Creek

"I hope more people get to spend more time around Anzac because he's a beautiful soul. His journey is just starting to begin."

Rissetto is set to arrive at the Taranaki Airs today in the New Zealand NBL, where he will play during the off-season as he continues to build towards NBL24.

Rissetto joins rostered players Alan Williams, Mitch Creek, Owen Foxwell and Reuben Te Rangi as players signed at Phoenix for NBL24 ahead of the NBL Free Agency Period starting March 30.

Phoenix Media (17/03/23)