Le'afa re-signs with hometown Saints for NZNBL

The Wellington Saints have announced the return of King #251 Izayah Le'afa for the 2025 New Zealand National Basketball League (NZNBL) season.

Le'afa, a Wellington native, brings a wealth of experience from his tenure with the Tall Blacks, the Wellington Saints, and most recently, the Sydney Kings of the Australian National Basketball League (NBL).

Le'afa's basketball journey began in Wellington, where he played three seasons with the Saints before moving to the United States in 2016 to play college basketball for the Sacramento State Hornets.

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During his collegiate career, he developed a reputation as a defensive stalwart and a reliable playmaker. After college, Le'afa returned to professional basketball, signing with the South East Melbourne Phoenix and the New Zealand Breakers in the NBL, and in the 2024/25 season joining the Sydney Kings.

His international experience is highlighted by his contributions to the New Zealand national team, the Tall Blacks, where he has earned over 25 caps.

Coach Aaron Young expressed his enthusiasm for Le'afa's return.

"[It was a] no-brainer bringing Zay home for another season," Young said.

"Allowing him to flourish in the environment that brings the best out of him is good business.

"He has capitalised on the success he’s built for himself recently and we want to make sure he keeps climbing as an all-round talent.

"Tapping into his relentless confidence in big moments will be a difference maker for our ball club."

Le'afa's previous stint with the Saints was marked by significant achievements, including multiple Performance of the Week honours during the 2024 season.

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His leadership and on-court versatility were instrumental in the team's competitive performance.

Le'afa expressed his excitement about rejoining his hometown team.

"I'm looking forward to returning to Wellington for the 2025 season and bringing the championship back to my home city along with the squad that coach Aaron and Milly are putting together," Le'afa said.

"Our Saints family can expect big things in 2025."

Their season tips off on Sunday, March 16 with a home game against The Taranaki Airs.