The Brisbane Bullets have bolstered their backcourt depth by signing American combo guard Josh Adams for the remainder of the 2024-25 NBL season, sources told ESPN. The 31-year-old will fill the roster spot vacated by James Batemon, who was recently ruled out for the season with a severe hamstring injury.
Adding All-NBL Experience
Adams is no stranger to the NBL, having played a key role for the Tasmania JackJumpers during their inaugural 2021-22 campaign. The 6’2″ guard made an immediate impact as the JackJumpers’ first-ever import signing.
Over the course of that regular season, Adams put up impressive numbers to earn a spot on the All-NBL Second Team:
- 16.6 points per game
- 3.3 rebounds per game
He was also instrumental in the JackJumpers’ surprise run to the 2022 NBL Championship Series, where they ultimately fell short against the Sydney Kings. Adams’ experience on the big stage could prove valuable for a Bullets team looking to make a second-half push.
Bullets Banking on Backcourt Boost
Sitting at seventh on the ladder with a 9-9 record, the Bullets are in desperate need of a spark to turn their season around. Head coach Justin Schueller is optimistic that Adams can provide that lift, especially with Batemon now sidelined.
“Josh is a dynamic scorer and playmaker who can create his own shot and make plays for others,” said Schueller. “He knows what it takes to compete at a high level in this league. We’re excited to add his experience and scoring punch to our lineup.”
– Justin Schueller, Brisbane Bullets head coach
Adams will slot into a Bullets backcourt that also features fellow imports Casey Prather and Keandre Cook. His ability to play both guard positions should allow Schueller to deploy different lineups and play with pace.
When Will Adams Debut?
According to sources, the Bullets are targeting an early January debut for their new addition. Adams is expected to join the team shortly to begin training and learning the system.
Brisbane native and diehard Bullets fan Jake Haynes believes Adams could be the missing piece for a franchise seeking its first finals appearance since the NBL’s relaunch in 2016.
“I’ve followed Josh since his JackJumpers days and the man gets buckets,” Haynes said. “If he can come in and give us a scoring lift, especially with Batemon out, I like our chances to make a run. The Bullets are long overdue for postseason basketball.”
– Jake Haynes, Brisbane Bullets fan
Bullets Buckling Up for Playoff Push
Winners of five of their last seven, the Bullets have built some positive momentum heading into the season’s second half. The addition of an instant-offense weapon like Adams could help Brisbane climb the standings in a wide-open NBL playoff race.
With roughly half the season remaining, the Bullets are banking on their new backcourt weapon to provide the scoring and playmaking boost they need to break their postseason drought. If Josh Adams can recapture his All-NBL form, Brisbane may emerge as a dangerous darkhorse coming down the stretch.
