SHAMIR: 'We Got Lucky' Breakers sign ex-Detroit Pistons Point Guard

A former Detroit Pistons Point Guard and current two-time champion in the German Basketball League has been confirmed as the Sky Sport Breakers’ first import signing for NBL22.

30-year-old Peyton Siva and his family are in a MIQ facility in Rotorua and will complete quarantine on Wednesday.

Despite New Zealand being in a nationwide COVID lockdown, Siva will have plenty of time to gel with his new teammates, with the NBL season not starting until November 18.

By signing the dynamic 6-foot tall point guard, owner Matt Walsh continues his trend of recruiting imports with NBA experience, with the long-term view of improving kiwi players on the Breakers’ roster.

Siva arrives having played 26 games for Alba Berlin, Germany’s largest club, in the EuroLeague last season, averaging 10.1 points, 5.2 assists, and 1.2 steals.

He was named EuroLeague MVP of the week in March.

Siva became a free agent at the end of the 2021 season and was expected to stay in Europe before being snapped up by the Breakers.

“In all honesty, it was a bit of a shock for people in Europe and even internally that we managed to sign Peyton,” says Sky Sport Breakers Head Coach Dan Shamir.

“Peyton really wanted to be over here, and I believe we got a little bit lucky, but it’s part of the whole deal the Breakers have to offer. 

“This is an attractive place for players like Peyton Siva to come and play.

“He’s a great fit for us because of his ability to run a team and lead our group but also because of his ability to score and create when we need him to.”

Siva was the 26th pick in the second round of the 2013 NBA draft by the Detroit Pistons, playing 24 games in the world’s top league. 

He has spent the last six seasons in Europe and was the top scorer in the 2019 EuroCup, before helping Alba Berlin secure back-to-back German championships in 2020 and 2021.

Previously, he has won a NCAA championship with Louisville and, before that, was an All-American in High School.

Coach Shamir says Siva’s undeniable class will rub off on the whole team and, in particular, star guards Tai Webster and Will McDowell-White.

“Peyton is the best player to help Tai and Will get better.  I also think he’s a great combination with Tai because he will take some load off him.

“I think Will and Peyton are going to be a fantastic combination at Point Guard. 

“Everyone on our roster is going to benefit because both Peyton and Will are ’team first, pass first’ players who can create.  They’re going to love playing together.”