Wildcats sign three-time champion Tom Jervis

The Perth Wildcats have signed three-time championship-winning big man Tom Jervis for the 2020/21 NBL Season.

Jervis played three seasons for the Wildcats from 2013 to 2016, and a fourth in 2018/19, winning titles in 2014, 2016 and 2019.

After the 2018/19 season he announced his retirement, but the 211cm centre has taken the opportunity to return to his home town club to fill a much-needed role.

“It’s a pretty amazing situation, I didn’t really expect to get another crack at the NBL and all of a sudden I’m sitting here in quarantine with one of my teammates,” he said.

“I’m expecting to play a similar role to what I have previously with the ‘Cats; be a big body, run the floor, set some good screens and get guys like Bryce (Cotton), Todd (Blanchfield) and Clint (Steindl) open.

“Knowing the system really well, as well as the guys, there shouldn’t be any teething issues which is a big advantage when coming in.”

Between his two stints at the Wildcats, Jervis played two seasons at the Brisbane Bullets.

Over his 182-game NBL career, the 2014 Rookie of the Year averages 6.5 points and 4.5 rebounds per game.

“Any time you can bring a three-time championship player back to the team is exciting. He knows our system, our culture, and it should be an easy transition,” said Wildcats coach Trevor Gleeson.

“His last game for us was Game Four of the 2019 Grand Final, it was one of his best games, and he played a big part in that win over Melbourne United on the road.

“He’s the type of guy you want to have in the trenches with you because he gives everything to the Wildcats. We’re excited Tommy’s back and now we’ll work to get his fitness back up.”

Tom Jervis’ signing completes the Perth Wildcats 10-man roster for the 2020/21 season.

The 33-year-old has joined the team’s quarantining training group.

The Perth Wildcats open their season on Sunday 24 January against the South East Melbourne Phoenix at RAC Arena.