Tigers snare Ere

The Melbourne Tigers have pulled off a major recruiting coup by signing talented import Ebi Ere for the upcoming NBL season.

Ere had originally signed with the South Dragons, but that deal fell through after the 27-year-old attempted to win a contract in the NBA.

When Ere's NBA deal didn't eventuate the Tigers pounced, and the reigning NBL champions are sure to be strengthened by the signing of the runner-up MVP from last season.

"We're ecstatic to have a player of his calibre join the Tigers, it's a huge coup for the Club," Tigers director Seamus McPeake said.

"Ere's agent came to us at the start of the off-season but he was outside our price range. When his NBA contract fell through we were in a position to negotiate the salary to fit within our budget."

The Tigers starting five is likely to consist of local stars Chris Anstey, David Barlow and Sam Mackinnon, with import duo Rod Grizzard and Ere the support cast.

With such an exciting squad for next season, Tigers coach Al Westover is understandably excited.

"When you add someone like Ebi Ere to your roster, in an already deep team like we have, you just know that we're going to be the team to beat this season," Westover said.

"We're really looking forward to those cross-town games against the Dragons, signing Ebi has definitely fired up that rivalry."

Ere will arrive in Melbourne on Thursday and will begin training with the Tigers on Friday, before the NBL seasons tips off next week.