Brayden Inger will return to the Southland Sharks for a sixth season, reinforcing his status as the club’s longest-serving player and a key figure within the team and wider Southland community. His decision reflects more than a routine signing, highlighting a strong sense of belonging built over five years in Invercargill.
Respected across the league for his professionalism and resilience, Inger has become deeply connected to the Sharks and their supporters. Head Coach Jonathan Yim said, “Brayden is a proven contributor in New Zealand, but what makes him so valuable goes well beyond that. He means a great deal to this community and to everyone involved with the Sharks. He has become a pillar of this club through the way he represents Southland, the way he carries himself, and the trust he has built over time. Brayden understands this place, he cares deeply about it, and that matters.”
Inger echoed that sentiment, saying, “Southland has been my home away from home the last five seasons, so it was an easy decision to return. Being the longest tenured Shark shows that the community and club is what makes this place feel like home. Through up and down seasons, it’s always been a no-brainer to return because it’s a family.”
He also highlighted the importance of the team’s supporters. “The fans are the best in the league, hands down, and the rest of the league know it too. Playing in front of them at the Shark Tank and experiencing that sort of atmosphere is something special and I’ll always look forward to that the most.”
Alongside Inger’s return, the Sharks have signed point guard Rylan Jones for the 2026 season. Identified early in free agency, Jones brings a balanced and competitive presence to the backcourt.
“Shark fans, please welcome Rylan Jones into the family,” Yim said. “Rylan was a priority target for us as soon as free agency opened, and I’m genuinely stoked he’s chosen to join the Sharks this season.”
Jones is known for his ability to control tempo and contribute both on and off the ball. Yim added, “Rylan is an exciting point guard who impacts the game and winning in a variety of ways.”
Jones said, “I really enjoyed getting to know Coach Yim. We talked about winning a championship and how I can help the team win.”
With a loyal core and new talent, the Sharks are building momentum ahead of their 2026 campaign, which begins on April 10 against the Otago Nuggets at ILT Stadium Southland.