The 26-year-old New Zealander is the latest addition to the Braves men's squad ahead of the 2021 NBL1 South season.

The Bendigo Braves men head into this year's season determined to succeed after falling short in the 2019 grand final against the Nunawading Spectres.

"That's definitely why I came to Bendigo. I can see the team and overall program has strong potential," Mumtaz said.

"And after last season the team is determined to have another shot at finals."

Mumtaz, who is normally a guard, has the versatility to play other roles across the floor, which has been an individual focus of his during 12 months of lockdowns and restrictions.

"I've focused a lot on my athleticism and I've been in the weights room a fair bit focusing on my explosive ability," he said.

"Naturally I am a shooter, but I've been evolving my game so on nights when the shooting is not going the best I can adapt to other roles, such as defending high-quality imports."

Braves men's coach David Hogan said Mumtaz had emerged from lockdown even stronger than when he first signed with the team for 2020.

"Having a high-quality player come to us is a massive coup for the Braves and he fits in well with the team," Hogan said.

"We couldn't be happier.

"With last season cancelled due to COVID, Javaan went home to New Zealand and has come back in great condition and has been shooting the ball incredibly well.

"We are really excited to see Javaan step up to NBL1 level and Bendigo fans should be excited to see him on court."

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Mumtaz joins Ray Turner as the only two players signed with the Braves so far ahead of the season which starts in a month.

"The pair have mixed well during pre-season and their chemistry on the floor is really pleasing," Hogan said.

"The team is looking fitter each week and we are determined to compete at a high-level this season."

Mumtaz last played with the Shepparton Gators in the Big V Division 1 in 2019 where he averaged 17.8 points, 5 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.1 steals per game.

Most recently he played some domestic basketball back in New Zealand before returning to Australia earlier this year.

His goal is to help the Braves go all the way to the championship match, in addition to improving his own personal performance with a plan to secure a spot on a team for next year's NBL season.

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