Adelaide 36ers forward Zylan Cheatham is making waves in the National Basketball League (NBL) this season, showcasing his athleticism and versatility on the court. Known for his high-energy performances, Cheatham has quickly established himself as a vital player for the 36ers, contributing significantly to the team’s positive start in the 2025-26 NBL season.
Cheatham’s journey through basketball has been anything but conventional. Originating from Phoenix, Arizona, he has ventured across various leagues worldwide. After going undrafted in 2019, he secured a two-way contract with the New Orleans Pelicans. Just four months later, he made his NBA debut against the Miami Heat, where he faced off against stars such as Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo. In that game, he recorded two points, three rebounds, and an assist in just 14 minutes of play, marking a promising start to his professional career.
Over the next four years, Cheatham honed his skills in the NBA G-League, playing for teams like the Iowa Wolves and Salt Lake City Stars. His determination to return to the NBA was met with another opportunity when he signed a 10-day contract with the Utah Jazz during the COVID-19 pandemic, further solidifying his potential at the highest level.
After his stint in the NBA, Cheatham took his talents to Europe, joining Bayern Munich, where he averaged 8.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. His impressive performance caught the attention of the New Zealand Breakers, who signed him for the NBL24 season. Despite a promising start, a fractured foot sidelined him early in the season. He averaged 15.8 points and 6.8 rebounds while shooting an efficient 50.9% from the field in his limited appearances.
Following his time in New Zealand, Cheatham played in Japan’s B.League for the Nagoya Diamond Dolphins. Reflecting on his experience, he stated, “It was a great time… it ended up being one of my better seasons.” In 60 appearances, he averaged 12.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.2 assists. The cultural adjustment and the challenge of playing with teammates who spoke different languages enhanced his growth as a player.
Cheatham’s return to the NBL was motivated by feelings of disrespect from his previous experience with the Breakers, particularly after missing out on All-NBL Team honors. “That really didn’t sit well with me… it kind of put that fire in my belly,” he explained in an interview. He aimed to prove himself with the Adelaide 36ers, joining a roster featuring notable players like Bryce Cotton and Isaac Humphries.
In his current role with the 36ers, Cheatham has adapted his game to complement the team’s scoring dynamics. “Each season offers different things, and my expectations are a little bit different,” he noted. His current play has yielded a significant impact, with a plus/minus rating of +62 early in the season and averaging 10.5 rebounds per game, ranking among the league leaders in that category. “For me, my mentality is just always do anything to win,” he added, emphasizing his commitment to team success.
A considerable factor in his decision to join the 36ers was the leadership of Head Coach Mike Wells. Cheatham appreciates Wells’ energetic approach and his ability to relate to players. “He is definitely a player’s coach… he is just a good guy in general,” Cheatham remarked, highlighting how Wells maximizes team talents.
Looking ahead, the 36ers are poised for an exciting matchup against Melbourne United, the current top team in the league. Cheatham recognizes the importance of this game as a potential turning point in the season. “We have that team on the schedule… I would love for us to be the first [to beat them],” he stated, underscoring the competitive spirit driving the team.
As Cheatham continues to elevate his game and embrace new challenges, his journey reflects the resilience and dedication necessary to thrive in professional basketball. With his sights set on proving himself in the NBL, fans can expect more dynamic performances from this rising star.
