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FWC on Sport Nation guideDream becomes reality as Perth Wildcats sign local talent Marley Sam
Lee Fletcher • July 10th, 2026 5:59 pm
Marley Sam's dream of playing in the NBL has become reality after the Perth Wildcats signed the teenage star to a three-year Development Player contract.
The 17-year-old WA product has been rewarded after a breakout season in NBL1 West, where he's established himself as one of the competition's most exciting young guards with the Eastern Suns.
Sam has averaged 21.5 points, 5.7 assists, 5.0 rebounds and 3.2 steals per game this season, underlining why the Cats have moved quickly to secure one of the state's brightest basketball prospects.
After initially missing selection for the Rio Tinto Perth Wildcats Academy, Sam worked his way into the program before becoming one of its standout performers.
His determination was recognised when he was named the Academy's Rio Tinto Competitor of the Year.
The teenager's remarkable season continued last week with a stunning 60-point performance for Kiara College in the School Sport WA Grand Final.
Wildcats Assistant Coach and Academy Director Keegan Crawford said Sam's journey was a perfect example of perseverance paying off.
"Marley wasn't selected for the Academy the first time he trialled, but he continued to work and get better every time he stepped on the floor until he made it," Crawford said.
"From unselected to now a professional basketball player, Marley's rise is truly inspirational."
Earlier this year, Sam made it clear his goal was to play professionally in Australia, despite attracting interest from the US college system.
Just a few months later, he's achieved that ambition with the club he grew up watching.
"It's amazing, it's a dream come true," Sam said.
"My parents are very proud of me for what I've achieved at such a young age. They're always telling me to keep going and I've just listened."
Sam will join the Wildcats' NBL27 squad as preparations continue for the upcoming season.
