US College basketball giant Sam Alabakis has joined St Kilda as a Category B rookie.

At 211cm, the 21-year-old will equal Fremantle stalwart Aaron Sandilands and Collingwood big-man Mason Cox as the tallest player on an AFL list ever.

The Perth native has been playing and studying at the University of Louisiana Monroe for the past three years but will now join the Saints in the pre-season.

READ: Saints strengthen draft hand

“I couldn’t be happier to be joining St Kilda,” the former Hale School student said.

“I never thought I’d get the chance to play AFL, but the club has been really encouraging and welcoming, and I can’t wait to get started and repay the faith they’ve shown in me.”

Head of List Management James Gallagher said the Perth Wildcats development squad member had all the attributes to be a potential AFL ruckman.

“Sam was personally identified by our ruck coach, Adam Skrobalak, and from their first session together we’ve seen several encouraging signs,” Gallagher said.

“His height is obviously a huge advantage, but his kicking abilities and natural athleticism have been among some really promising early indicators.

“Sam has played rugby before so has a good tackling base and doesn’t mind body contact, and he obviously knows what it’s like to train like a professional athlete having played basketball at such a high level.

“He’s used to 360-degree movement, reads the ball well and his skill at ground level is really good, especially for someone so tall.

“Sam is very mature for his age and has already shown an impressive level of professionalism and eagerness to learn. We’re very much looking forward to having him on board.”