"Our assistant coaches (Adrian Newall and Scott Ninnis) have kept a close eye on form in both the SEABL and Big V competition for the past few months," said Dragons chairman Mark Cowan today.

"It was important to me that the development spots were provided to local Victorian basketballers, and I'm thrilled to see Dean and Ash in the Dragons jersey."

As development players, both will suit-up at home games, and will train season long with the Dragons.

"It'll be a fantastic learning experience for these guys to go against the likes of Todd Fuller, Frank Drmic and Jacob Holmes on a daily basis," explained assistant coach Scott Ninnis.

Cannan who attended Colorado Christian University alongside South Dragons forward Brent Hobba, averages 18 points and 13 rebounds for the Dandenong Rangers. He'll compete in the Big V grand final series this weekend as the Rangers take on the Sandringham Sabres this Saturday at Dandenong Basketball Stadium.

"Of the several times I've watched Ash play he just gets the job done through hard work," said Ninnis.

"I saw him take down 29 rebounds against the Eltham Wildcats a couple of months ago - that's the kind of work ethic that attracted us to him."

The Dragons were pleasantly surprised by Brebner, a lesser touted recruit who has shone in the few weeks of Dragons pre-season training.

"Dean's a very good athlete. He finishes off well going to the basket and has shown us he can knock down the open shot," added Ninnis.

"He's a solid all round player, and has fit in well with our group - he makes a positive contribution on a daily basis."

Dean will next suit up for the Geelong Supercats Saturday, August 26 in the SEABL finals.