The NBL champion New Zealand Breakers have filled their second and final import slot for the 2011/12 season, signing NBA-experienced Cedric Jackson to join fellow American Gary Wilkinson at the club.
Jackson is a 6foot 3, 25-year-old point guard who has played 12 NBA games for Cleveland, San Antonio and Washington, while recently featured in the All Star game in the American Development League.
He comes highly recommended from sources such as Tall Blacks head coach Nenad Vucinic and former NBA star Dee Brown, who is coaching in the D League.
Breakers head coach Andrej Lemanis is delighted with the pedigree of Jackson but insists he must contribute to the performance of the team as they seek back-to-back NBL titles.
"We look forward to Cedric coming in and finding his way into the group. As with all players, we expect him to contribute to the overall performance of the team,"
Lemanis said.
"As a point guard, he will be responsible for creating for his teammates, running the team and provide scoring as appropriate.
"He has had very good assist numbers his entire career so we look forward to him coming in and getting people some looks.
"Having a settled team should enable Cedric to find his way quickly – I'm sure the other guys on the team will ensure he knows the systems - especially the plays that get them a shot.
"Cedric has had a little taste of the NBA - his drive to get another crack should ensure he plays and practices with plenty of energy."
Jackson will arrive in New Zealand in September, the same time as crowd favourite Wilkinson who returns after a stellar first season with the Breakers in which he earned NBL First Team honours.
The Breakers now have only one local spot left on their roster.
Breakers 2011/12 roster: Alex Pledger, Dillon Boucher, CJ Bruton, Mika Vukona, Gary Wilkinson, BJ Anthony, Corey Webster, Tom Abercrombie, Cedric Jackson, Josh Bloxham (development player), Dion Prewster (development player), Isaac Fotu (development player, non-contract)