(FREDERICTON, NB) The UNB Reds men’s basketball program has tapped a valuable resource yet again.

The Reds have gone down under to begin the recruiting class of 2019.

Australian shooting guard and small forward Matur Maluach has signed a U SPORTS Letter of Intent and will join the Reds, beginning in the 2019-20 season.

“With the graduation of Will Legere, it was important that we pursue a shooting guard or small forward with the same qualities,” said Reds head coach Brent Baker. “Matur’s basketball IQ, work ethic, and enthusiasm for the game make him a very valuable addition to our program.”

The 6’5” Maluach comes to UNB from Newington College Sydney, in Sydney, Australia.

In four years at Newington, he led them to a 45-4 record and four straight Great Public Schools Association state titles.

Last season, Maluach averaged 21.7 points per game, 13.7 rebounds per game, and 3.6 assists.

Baker notes that Maluach played in a great program at Newington, under long-time coach Rex Nottage.

“Adding someone with championship pedigree can never be underestimated. He’ll bring a winning demeanor to our program,” said Baker.

Former Reds standout Will McFee, a Sydney native who has returned home, played an integral part in landing Maluach.

“We’ve been very fortunate to have Will send some quality players from down under to our program,” said Baker. “He helped turn our program around as a player and continues to perpetuate its growth.”

Baker is happy Maluach will be joining fellow countryman Daniel Pitcher on the Reds roster in the fall.

“Matur is the quintessential student-athlete that we’re looking for at UNB,” said Baker. He’s an honours student, a leader in the classroom and on the court.”