MACKAY, QUEENSLAND – The McDonald’s Mackay Meteors have completed a major NBL1 North off-season move, signing dynamic Tasmania JackJumpers guard Isaac White for 2023.

White joins the Meteors after two successful NBL1 North campaigns with the Ipswich Force, where he averaged 23 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists across 25 games.

Following his stellar 2022 NBL1 season, the 24-year-old signed with the Tasmania JackJumpers in August as a nominated NBL replacement player. White agreed to extend his stay on the Apple Isle for the remainder of the 2022-23 NBL season, after converting his deal into a development player position.

Prior to joining Tasmania, White spent two NBL seasons with the Illawarra Hawks after graduating from Stanford University in 2020. He also represented Australia at the 2019 World University Games in Italy.

Across his career White has developed sharpshooting status and a reputation as a high-energy hooper.

McDonald’s Mackay Meteors Head Coach Joel Khalu said the recruitment of Isaac White was a massive coup for the club.

“Isaac is certainly a person who fits perfectly within our Meteors culture,” Khalu said.

“He’s a competitor who works exceptionally hard at both ends of the floor. He’s shown an ability to score at both the NBL and NBL1 levels and can defend multiple spots too.”

“Most importantly though, he’s a team-first guy who has a desire to win a championship.”

“While he’s still young, we’ll be looking to Isaac to bring some leadership to our group as well.  He’s been involved in some elite programs and those locker-room experiences will also add tremendous value to our team.”

While Khalu was aware of White from his consistent performances across the 2022 NBL1 season, it was his efforts for Ipswich in an 80-72 win against Mackay in Round 7 that stuck with the Meteors head coach.

“The game which Ipswich beat us at their place last season, Isaac finished with 24 points, 9 rebounds, 8 steals and 4 assists. To do that against the best defensive team in the league was certainly impressive.”

“It was the type of display that resonates with you as a coach and helped my reasoning to recruit him.”

White shared his excitement about the move north.

“I’m really looking forward to making the move up to Mackay for the upcoming season. From the outside looking in, I’ve always had respect for the professionalism and competitiveness of Mackay Basketball, and I think the fit is perfect.”

“I also love the way in which the Mackay community rally around their basketball teams, and I can’t wait to play in front of them. I’m excited to bring my shooting and defence to this group and chase a championship with this team.”

White will arrive in the Sugar City at the end of the NBL season in February next year.