BNZ Breakers Secure NCAA Standout Kael Robinson as Development Player

The BNZ Breakers have further strengthened their local talent pipeline for the upcoming NBL27 campaign, officially signing sharp-shooting Hamilton forward Kael Robinson as a Development Player.

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Robinson’s signing marks a triumphant return home to New Zealand following an outstanding US collegiate career. He spent his senior NCAA Division I season as a star contributor for Northern Kentucky University, averaging 14.4 points and 4.5 rebounds while knocking down 71 three-pointers at an impressive 39.2% clip. Upon graduating, he immediately reinforced his professional readiness in the Sal's NBL with the Franklin Bulls, showcasing the exact brand of scoring efficiency and size that makes him one of the country's brightest young prospects.

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He will be under the tutelage of a world-class coaching staff led by 2023 FIBA World Cup-winning Head Coach Gordon Herbert. Alongside Herbert is Lead Assistant Coach Sebastian Gleim, reuniting the dynamic tactical duo behind Germany’s historic global triumph. Their international expertise is complemented by the sharp local expertise of top Kiwi coaches Matt Lacey, Quinn Clinton, and Josiah Maama.

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The 6’7” (201 cm) versatile forward is another high-upside perimeter threat.  Equipped with elite shooting mechanics, length, and multi-positional defensive tools, Robinson brings significant floor-spacing capability and athleticism.

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Robinson spoke with tremendous pride at achieving one of his long-held basketball goals.

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“Honestly, it means a lot. It’s something I’ve been working toward for a long time, so to finally get the opportunity to sign with the BNZ Breakers is pretty special. Growing up in New Zealand and watching the Breakers, I’ve always wanted to play at this level, so it’s a pretty cool feeling to now be a part of the organisation. I’m just really grateful for the opportunity and excited to get to work and see what I can do.”

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Robinson has sporting pedigree in the family, with his father representing Waikato in rugby and his brother playing rugby for Tasman, not surprisingly they understand the commitment to reach this level.

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“My family was super excited; they’ve been with me through the whole journey and have seen all the work that’s gone into getting to this point. So, being able to tell them and see their reaction was pretty cool. They said they were really proud of me and happy that I would be staying close to home after five years at university in America.”
 
BNZ Breakers President of Basketball Dillon Boucher sees a high ceiling for Robinson.

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"Kael is part of our franchises commitment to having a development pathway for talented Kiwi prospects with a future in professional basketball. He is coming off a remarkable senior college campaign where he proved he can score and stretch the floor at a very high level. He possesses great positional size, an elite stroke from deep, and a fantastic work ethic. Placing alongside our veteran leaders will accelerate his development dramatically."

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With world-class leadership on the sidelines and a deeply competitive, talent-rich roster, Robinson’s arrival adds valuable depth and local hunger as the BNZ Breakers launch their chase for the NBL27 championship banner.

BNZ Breakers Roster: 

Parker Jackson Cartwright (import)

Reuben Te Rangi

Sam Mennenga

Dejan Vasiljevic

Kouat Noi

Carlin Davison

Izayah Le’afa

Preston Le Gassick

Anzac Rissetto

Josiah-Jordan James (import)

Charles Bediako (import)


Development Players:

Kael Robinson (a further 3 to be added)


First home game

September 20

Spark Arena

5pm Tip off, Doors Open 4pm
v
Illawarra Hawks
Tickets and season memberships available at www.nzbreakers.co.nz
 
For more information or for interviews, contact:
Andrew Dewhurst

Team Operations and Media

022 164 9500

media@nzbreakers.co.nz