Breakers sign NBA talent

The New Zealand Breakers have signed their second import, adding former Toronto Raptors and Orlando Magic forward Freddie Gillespie to their roster.

Gillespie will bring a wealth of experience to the Breakers' squad in NBL25, having made 29 NBA appearances and spending significant time in Germany with Bayern Munich. He's also lined up in the G League. 

The 27-year-old was drawn to a deal with the Breakers after the signing of head coach Petteri Koponen was announced for the new season. 

"Playing for the Breakers is so attractive and I'm excited to work with him (Koponen)," Gillespie said.

"Forget the tactics, from a player's viewpoint, I think he (Koponen) understands my game, and he understands the game of basketball."

Gillespie had heard of the NBL through former Next Star for the club, RJ Hampton. 

"I know a bit about the NBL because former Breaker RJ Hampton used to be my teammate at the Orlando Magic," he said. 

The 6'10 import averaged 5.6 points and 4.9 rebounds in 2021, his best season in the NBA for the Toronto Raptors

"Playing in the NBA taught me confidence; you have to believe in yourself to play at that level," he said. 

"Every night, you are going up against guys who are some of the best players in history, and you have to find out how to compete."

Gillespie will join Parker Jackson-Cartwright, Mojave King, Sam Mennenga, Mitch McCarron, Jonah Bolden, and Dane Pineau. The Breakers have one more import spot and one local spot to fill.