Abercrombie set for greatest honour

New Zealand Breakers CEO Lisa Edser has confirmed Tom Abercrombie will remain a staple of the program, and has announced the retiring captain’s jersey will be retired by the club.

Abercrombie’s famous number 10 jersey is now set to join CJ Bruton’s 23, Dillon Boucher’s 24 and Paul Henare’s 32 in the rafters at Spark Arena.

The 36-year-old has played his entire NBL career with the Breakers and was a key component of the club’s four titles through its golden era of the 2010s.

He’ll end his career with the most appearances, points, blocks and steals in Breakers history. He also sits second in total rebounds for the club behind Mika Vukona, and seventh in total assists.

“While it’s sad to know we’re not going to see Tom past this season on the court, I’m delighted to say we are going to see Tom’s jersey hanging proudly in the rafters. We will be retiring Tom’s jersey,” Edser said at the club’s MVP night celebrations.

“Matt (Walsh) couldn’t’ be here tonight but is was very important form Matt’s perspective that he sent you his love – I know you’ve spoken with him – he’s very emotional about this day too. You’re not lost to the Breakers, you never will be.

“You’re very much forever a Breaker and we appreciate you. Thank you, Tom.”

Abercrombie won the Breakers’ Clubman Award and Fans Memorable Moment for NBL24. Parker Jackson-Cartwright was named the MVP of the season, while Anthony Lamb won the Member’s Choice Award.