The champion New Zealand Breakers have sewn up the majority of their squad for the next Australian National Basketball League season with confirmation of the signings of all but one of the local players alongside the two allowable import spots on the roster.
The Breakers have confirmed the retention of 7 local players (six New Zealand and one Australian), led by news that swingman Tom Abercrombie has waived his 'out clause' for the new season, and will suit up for the Breakers for another campaign, for now turning down the lure of Europe.
Abercrombie did have the option to pursue a contract in Europe or indeed the NBA but has decided to stay with the North Shore based club, a decision that has delighted his coach Andrej Lemanis.
Abercrombie is joined by the returning Alex Pledger at centre, feisty defender Dillon Boucher, the irrepressible Mika Vukona, young guard Corey Webster and new signing BJ Anthony, who has signed a two year deal as he graduates from Development Player status last season. Also returning is Australian guard CJ Bruton as he chases his fifth career NBL Championship.
The only player with any degree of uncertainty is Kirk Penney who while under contract for next season does have until August 1st to decide on whether he will pursue options in Europe.
That is just one of a number of factors that leaves Lemanis in no rush to confirm his American imports.