KUALA LUMPUR (Malaysia) – Veteran. Seasoned. Accomplished. If there is any individual who qualifies to be given all these, and similar, epithets in the history of club competition in Asian basketball it is Felton Sealey.
The 66-year-old, now helming Malaysian outfit NS Matrix Deers in the BCL Asia-East starting March 24 was, after all, a coach of a club in the erstwhile FIBA Asia Champions Cup all the way back in 2003.
Much water has flown since those days two decades ago when he coached Petronas-Malaysia, but the Phoenix Suns 1981 NBA Draftee continues with similar fervour. Just about a year Sealey called the plays as the Deers qualified from the regional competition to the elite BCL Asia.
“We are a lot better,” Sealey said amidst the hustle-bustle of preparations as the Deers prepare to host the first of the five stops in the revamped BCL Asia-East.
This (the new format) presents a valuable opportunity for us to test our abilities against diverse playing styles and further develop our tactical adaptability. We are eager to embrace these challenges and maximize our performance in this competitive environment,
"For the 2025 campaign, we have assembled a balanced squad consisting of five returning local veterans, ten new local players, and four talented import players," he said.
“This year's team boasts an explosive offensive unit with improved three-point shooting, increased speed, and greater athleticism. While our defensive system remains a work in progress, I am confident in our offensive firepower and overall potential for success.”
Well, what about the change in the format?
Sealey’s reply was characteristically succinct.
“This (the new format) presents a valuable opportunity for us to test our abilities against diverse playing styles and further develop our tactical adaptability. We are eager to embrace these challenges and maximize our performance in this competitive environment,” he said.
Talking of influence of the Deers’ participation on Malaysian basketball, Sealey said, “Our club’s success in reaching the BCL Final 8 has had a profound impact on the Malaysian basketball community.
“This achievement has not only raised the profile of the sport, but has also inspired other local clubs to strive for excellence. We hope our journey will encourage the continued development of basketball in Malaysia.”
“We look forward to the opportunity to represent Malaysia on the continental stage and aim to leave a lasting mark on the competition,” he added.
Sealey was cautiously optimistic on the impact of BCL Asia in Asian basketball.
“BCL Asia offers players and coaches invaluable insights into the offensive and defensive styles prevalent across the region. The exposure to high-calibre competition accelerates the growth and development of both individual players and teams,” Sealey said.
“We remain hopeful that the competition (BCL Asia) will have a lasting and positive influence,” he said.
“The league’s ability to endure over time will be crucial in shaping the basketball landscape in Asia.”
FIBA