Sport + Motorsport
The Southland Sharks have continued building their roster for the 2026 NZNBL season with the addition of Tautoko Wynyard and the return of local talents Quake Webster and Riley Snow.
Wynyard joins the Sharks after spending last season with the Manawatū Jets. Standing at 6’11”, the 21-year-old brings size, strength, and versatility to the frontcourt. Known for his physical presence inside, he also offers mobility that allows him to contribute as a rim runner, defender, and finisher around the basket.
“The Sharks are a great fit for me because I believe in what the team is building,” Wynyard said. “I’m excited about the direction the club is heading and I know I can contribute on and off the court. I’m looking forward to learning from the coaches and my teammates. I want to challenge myself, improve every day, and be part of a team that pushes for success.”
He added that joining the Sharks presents an ideal environment for growth and competition.
“This gives me the opportunity to compete at a high level while continuing to develop my game. I’ll bring consistent effort and a willingness to do whatever it takes to help us win. The goal is to compete for a championship and continue building a strong, connected culture. Individually, I want to improve my skills, be consistent in my performances, and make a positive impact.”
Sharks head coach Jonathan Yim believes Wynyard has significant potential and will fit well within the team’s identity.
“Tautoko was a player we really valued in this process. We feel our programme can bring out the best in him,” Yim said. “Analytically, he rates extremely well, and last season we saw firsthand the impact he can have on a game. Several of our players told me he might be the strongest player they faced all year.”
Yim added that Wynyard’s mindset suits the culture the Sharks are building.
“I’m looking forward to helping Tautoko develop and get where he wants to go. He fits the identity of this group — tough, competitive, and team-first. I think he’s going to be a great fit with our roster and quickly become a fan favourite in Southland.”
The club has also confirmed the return of guard Quake Webster, who will enter his fourth season as a rostered player after initially joining the organisation as a practice player in 2022.
“To play for the Sharks is pretty cool, because a lot of the people coming to watch and support us are the same people who’ve supported me throughout my basketball journey growing up,” Webster said.
He said the team culture made returning an easy decision.
“The team’s unity was tight last year — it felt less like a team and more of a family. With that culture already built, it made it an easy decision to want to come back.”
Yim believes Webster’s growth has been impressive and expects more to come.
“I really enjoyed coaching Quake last season,” Yim said. “He impressed me with his work ethic and his care factor. He was a great teammate and he really grew as a basketball player. I think that he is just scratching the surface with his potential and I think he’s poised for a breakout season.”
Forward Riley Snow will also return for his fourth year with the organisation, continuing his role as part of the Sharks’ local core.
“I love playing for the Sharks — playing for my local team in front of our fans and competing at a high level,” Snow said.
Looking back on last season’s playoff run, Snow recalled the atmosphere after the team’s victory over the Tuatara.
“After the Tuatara playoff win, when the crowd started cheering for us, that was probably the loudest I’ve ever heard the Tank. That was pretty special to be a part of.”
Yim said Snow’s consistency and effort make him a valuable member of the squad.
“Riley competes each and every day and is a great teammate who pushes the group to be better,” Yim said. “He’s extremely dedicated and brings great energy and effort.”
The Sharks will open the 2026 season on April 10 at ILT Stadium Southland against the Otago Nuggets. Season memberships are now available, with more roster announcements expected in the coming weeks.