CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand — Join us in welcoming American forward René Rougeau to the Canterbury Rams!
Rougeau boasts an extensive international resume, including stops in Finland, Mexico, France, Israel, Venezuela, and New Zealand. He has contributed to several highly successful teams, being a five-time Finnish Korisliiga champion and two-time Mexican LNBP champion.
“He brings tremendous versatility to our lineup, and we believe he has the ability to be one of the premier defenders and rebounders in the league,” said Head Coach Quinn Clinton. “Offensively, his feel for the game is elite, and his ability to connect actions and make the game easier for the other four players on the floor will be incredibly valuable for our collective.”
“I would describe my game as being an energetic team player first and foremost,” said Rougeau. “I’ve always prided myself in defence since back in high school to college. I feel my defence brings a lot of energy to my team as well as [being] a vocal leader.”
Returning to the Sal’s NBL marks a full circle moment in Rougeau’s career as he made his professional debut in New Zealand with the Southland Sharks in 2010. He was named to the All-Star Five that season after averaging 16.2 points, 9.2 rebounds and 3.7 steals.
“It feels amazing to return back to NZ where I started my pro career,” said Rougeau. “The very first weekend we had a preseason tourney here in Christchurch so it feels full circle coming back to Christchurch to play for the Rams.”
“The Rams and Sharks had some very intense battles my rookie year so I’m looking forward to battling against my old team. Forever grateful to the sharks and Coach Richard Dickel for blessing me with the opportunity! And now beyond grateful and thankful to Coach Quinn for believing in me to come play for the Rams!”
Rougeau most recently played for the Helsinki Seagulls in the Finnish Korisliiga, winning Finals MVP with them in 2023 and 2025. This past season he posted nightly averages of 15.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 2.0 steals, and 2.1 blocks.
“René has a proven track record of impacting winning at every club he’s been part of,” added Clinton. “We expect that to continue with us.”
“The Rams have already been off to a great start before I arrived, therefore I’m just looking to bring a lot of energy, intensity and leadership more than anything,” said Rougeau. “I’ve had a lot of great veterans throughout my career so it’s only right to pay it forward to the younger generation.”
“Whatever the team needs from me I’m more than willing to provide and help motivate everyone by leading by example! Looking forward to a great journey to getting back to the top of the league at the end of the season!”
