Hobba was recruited to the Dragons after one year with the Perth Wildcats and has proven one of the most exciting stories in the national league. The 205cm West Australian became a key player for South, assuming an increased role within the team as the season progressed.

The 24-year-old played 30 games for the Dragons in 2006-‘07, totalling 168 points, 65 rebounds, 15 assists.

“I’m obviously excited and very happy to be re-signed to the Dragons,” Hobba said this week.

“I’m looking forward to working with Hammer and the guys that are involved with the team again and looking forward to a better year.

“Hopefully I can improve my game again and have more impact on the team.”

Dragons coach Shane Heal said Hobba had a big future ahead.

“Hobba’s a really exciting story,” he said.

“He came over here from Western Australia and I didn’t know anything about him. He was really here as a tenth man but throughout the year he made a massive improvement to the stage where he started for us in one game and had 20 points in one game.

“He’s somebody that we’re really excited to have again next year and hope that he can continue to make those same improvements because we think he’s got a chance to be a great player in the NBL.”

South Dragons owner Mark Cowan said Hobba’s development was a highlight of the season.

“From my perspective one of the most enjoyable things about owning a club is to watch people come through and progress with the club,” Cowan said.

“To see the way Brent applied himself during this year and to see him develop and continue to grow as a basketball player has been really rewarding, so it’s great to re-sign him.”

As a re-signed athlete Hobba will maintain his one-point ranking, a bonus that will allow the Dragons significant breathing space when structuring the new season's list.

"As far as the NBL points system is concerned, Brent will remain a one-point player," Cowan said.

"This allows the club great flexibilty for next season, considering Joe Ingles also remains a one-point player and we have a total of 68 points to make up our roster. It's a genuine opportunity for the club and we intend to take advantage of it."

Cowan said the signing showed a continued commitment to local talent.

“We were first made aware of Brent through Dandenong, where he plays ABA, and he will continue that role with one of the great local associations here in Victoria,” Cowan said.