The New Zealand Breakers have finalised their full-time roster for the upcoming ANBL basketball season with the signing of American import Akil Mitchell.
The New Zealand Breakers have finalised their full-time roster for the upcoming ANBL basketball season with the signing of American import Akil Mitchell.
The Breakers' new signing Akil Mitchell playing for Virginia. Photo: Supplied
Mitchell is a 206cm (6'9") forward who played at Virginia College, but went undrafted in 2014.
He played in the NBA Development League before having a season in France.
The Breakers coach Paul Henare likes what the scouting reports say about his new signing.
"Akil had a four-year career at Virginia and has two years' experience playing professionally. His time under Tony Bennett - who has a great connection with New Zealand, would've prepared him well for a long and successful career. One of the things that impressed me most was his willingness to learn and do whatever it takes for the team to win.
"Through watching tape and talking to our US scout Jonathan Givony, I knew we were getting someone that can guard 1-5 if needed which gives us some great flexibility when it comes to our defence. Offensively he will bring a great energy and with his athleticism, will be a crowd favourite I'm sure."
Mitchell spoke at his arrival press conference just hours after landing in New Zealand.
"I am super excited to be here, this is a good league with a lot of good players coming through. It is a good stepping stone for me in my career and a great opportunity to win some games. From what I have heard it is a great country and I am looking forward to it.
"We were just in a room with all the championship trophies, I know this is a family orientated programme from ownership down, it is about family. I am looking forward to being a part of that, a team that wants to win and expects to win but is based on those great values."
The Breakers start training this week with their opening ANBL game in early October.
The Breakers other American import is point guard Ben Woodside.
-RNZ
