Bringing some self-creation and shotmaking to the Rockets this year, AJ Basi is poised to have a great season as another weapon in Coach Pearson’s arsenal. After five years at college and a number more playing overseas, the Canadian-born baller has plenty to offer the team on both ends next season.
AJ’s college career spanned from 2012 to 2017, and he spent all five years playing for the University of Manitoba Bisons in his native Canada. His game progressed enormously during his time there, as he learned how to impose himself in his role as a scoring guard despite standing just shy of 6 feet tall. His development is clear in his efficiency, which shot up in his final year with the Bisons. His penultimate season there showcased his great scoring, marking up over 17PPG, but his FG% sat just under 40%. He flipped the script in a big way in his final year, reigning in his scoring volume but raising his FG% by almost 5%. His maturity shone through that season as he willingly brought down his shot attempts to help facilitate a more rounded offense, and his ability to operate as a threat both on and off-ball will be a key asset as he meshes with all the other talented players on the Rockets. Coach Pearson is excited to see how AJ’s game will help bring out the best in his teammates, highlighting that his ability to “stretch the floor and make plays off the bounce will be highly valued as a complement to the rest of roster”.
Though his shooting is a central part of his game, pigeonhole AJ at your peril. He’s a tenacious defender and adept cutter who can contribute in a range of situations on the court. He’ll be ready to make an instant impact for the squad, having already played in the UK for the Worthing Thunder of the NBL and, prior to that, for the BBL’s Newcastle Eagles. His time with the Eagles saw him battle for playing team all year, gradually earning his minutes by making the most of every moment he spent suited up. Never one to shy away from competition, AJ comes to the Rockets with a comprehensive basketball résumé that will put him in position to shake up the guard rotation and push up standards across the roster. Besides his ambitions on the court, AJ is particularly excited to bring joy back to fans who will at long last be able to watch the team in person again. He said he “can’t wait to play in-front of our fans and become part of the Reading community”, and we’re sure our fans can’t wait to welcome him to the team in return!
Look out for AJ flying around the court in the number 6 jersey next season, and get ready to hear a lot of swishing nets each time he steps on the floor!