The New Zealand Breakers are on the hunt for a new import after American Rich Melzer realised a lifelong dream in securing an NBA contract for the coming season.
The 26-year-old signed a two-year contract on Thursday with the San Antonio Spurs after impressing in the Orlando Magic summer league and spending 10 days in camp with the Spurs last month.
Breakers coach Andrej Lemanis is thrilled for Melzer personally, but admits the Minnesota native’s effort has complicated the coaching staff’s planning.
“Wow, it’s a great opportunity for Rich and we wish him every success,” Lemanis said. “It’s a positive reflection on our recruitment policy to see him make the NBA and it shows players can develop here as part of our program and that we are a viable pathway to the big time. John Dorge worked extensively with the big men last season and Rich himself acknowledges that he’s a better player because of that input.
“Now we have to evaluate our options in securing a replacement. Rich not only knew our systems and culture, he is a talented player with unique skills and we need to determine the balance of our roster and sign a quality import that fits in with the make-up of the team.”
Melzer says he has mixed emotions about the NBA contract because his heart was set on returning to New Zealand.
“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t excited about being signed, but at the same time I’m also a little saddened because I’ve been waiting to go back to the Breakers ever since I left after the last season,” Melzer said.
“I attribute a lot of this success to Andrej, John and the team because I really believe I wasn’t a professional ball player until my experiences in New Zealand.
“Man, I’m really going to miss the team, but I’ll try and do everyone proud and represent New Zealand and Australian basketball one hundred per cent.”
