David Okwera Returns to Perth to Join the Cats

The Perth Wildcats are delighted to announce the signing of exciting young power forward David Okwera on a three-year deal.

The 20-year-old is known for his length and athleticism, protecting the rim, defending at a high level, and can also get it done on the offensive end of the floor.

Originally from Western Australia, Okwera moved to Melbourne as a teenager, signing with Melbourne United as a development player at 18 years of age.

He was selected for the NBA Global Academy, receiving close to 20 NCAA D1 offers, but opted to turn professional and play in the NBL over taking the collegiate path.

The 6-foot-10 big man has represented Australia on several occasions, including the U19 FIBA World Cup and was a member of Australia’s Gold Medal winning FIBA Asia Cup team in 2022.

Okwera said he’s excited to be returning to the West and be with his family.

“It feels amazing to get the opportunity to play in front of my family and be around them, I’m really looking forward to it,” he said.

“JR (John Rillie) and the rest of the coaching staff are really invested in me developing into the player I want to be, and hopefully I can bring some excitement to the fans.”

Perth Wildcats head coach John Rillie said Okwera will play an important role on the 2023/24 roster.

“At the age of 20, David already has experience at the NBL level,” he said. 

“With his best days still way ahead of him, he’s an exciting addition to the roster and he has a work ethic that will allow his game to grow.

“With David returning home to Perth, the Red Army can expect to see a versatile forward who has the ability to impact the game at both ends.”

General Manager of Basketball Operations Danny Mills said Okwera is a great fit for the club.

“David’s size, length, and natural athletic abilities are very unique in a player with his versatility,” he said.

“We truly believe that in the program we are building here in Perth, with player development and a competitive daily environment at the core of what we do, David has the opportunity to really accelerate his growth as a player on and off the court.

“As we set out to do from day one of free agency, we have now brought another Perth born player home to come and play for the Wildcats, and we are extremely excited to have David join our family and take the next step of his career in his home city.”