Tough Break: Import ruled out with torn hamstring

The New Zealand Breakers will start the season without key import Josiah-Jordan James due to injury, the club has confirmed.

James sustained a torn left hamstring during the Breakers’ pre-season clash against Melbourne United last week and has been ruled out of the season-opener.

“Unfortunately, the scan and reports confirm that JJ will be out of action for some weeks,” President of Basketball Operations Dillon Boucher said.

“Our first thoughts are with him; no player wants to be injured but this is especially the case when you have travelled so far to a new club and playing in a new league.

“He is obviously tremendously disappointed with the result of the scan and that he will miss several weeks but is already focused on his rehab and working with our incredible medical and performance team with the goal of getting back on the floor.”

James faces a prolonged period on the sidelines, with the club saying he would be re-assessed in four to six weeks.

“We showed in pre-season when we had several players out that the team does not dwell on who is missing, but sees opportunity for the next player in,” Boucher said.

“That is the key, players stepping up and making the most of added minutes and the chance to take on more responsibility.”

The Breakers host the Illawarra Hawks in their first game of the Hungry Jack’s NBL27 Season at Spark Arena on Sunday, live on ESPN via Disney+ from 3pm AEST.