Okwera Returns to the Eagles in NBL1 West 2026

For Okwera, pulling the Eagles jersey back on is about more than just basketball.

“Wearing that jersey the first time meant a lot to me just knowing the guys who've been through there, through juniors.”

“So just representing that, the past guys and the family vibe was awesome.”

After three seasons as part of the Perth Wildcats program, the athletic forward says returning to East Perth was an easy decision.

“I mean it’s close to home and you always want to stay close to home.”

“Like I said, it's such a fun family environment for me.”

“So it's definitely comfortable, and I'm very happy with the choice that I made.”

Staying in Western Australia and investing back into the community that shaped him played an important part in the decision behind his off-season move.

“I think giving back is number one priority.”

“Like especially myself growing up here, I know what it means to be a young kid in WA and playing here so just being able to showcase myself and like little kids being able to see what you're able to do in this community.”

Since his first stint with the Eagles, Okwera’s game has continued to evolve within a high-performance environment.

“I think I've improved a lot since the last time I was there.”

“Obviously being here at the Wildcats with the coaching staff that they have and the facilities you're bound to develop and be a better player.”

That growth is something Eagles fans can expect to see immediately.

“So I think this time around they'll see a more mature David Okwera.”

“I know what I bring to a team that I think a lot of fans know about my versatility on the court.”

“So just hopefully just gelling around those guys and you know, hopefully we bring something special.”

With deeper experience and added maturity, Okwera’s return to East Perth is a homecoming to look forward to, and fans can see it unfold when the Eagles season tips off on March 28.