Utah Jazz Forward Named as Second Import

The Sky Sport Breakers have signed a quality import with NBA experience at Power Forward for the upcoming NBL23 season.

Jarrell Brantley arrives in Auckland next month fresh from playing five games for the LA Clippers in the NBA Summer League.

The Clippers finished with a 2-3 record, but the 26-year-old was described by critics as consistently the best player on the roster, starting every game, shooting 50 percent from the field and very active defensively, averaging 1.2 steals and 1.2 blocks a game.

A round-up of scouting reports categorise Brantley as very physical, a good passer, with quick decision-making skills who knows how to use his 6'7" frame around the rim.

Head Coach Mody Maor says the 26-year-old was his number one target to replace Finn Delany when he knew the kiwi wanted to go overseas.

"Jarrell Brantley is exactly the player I was looking for, and our discussions with him started a very long time ago. I am thrilled we've been able to bring him to the Breakers for the new season," Maor said.

"His role in Summer League and his role with the Breakers will be completely different, and I am looking forward to unlocking all his potential."

Brantley was the 50th pick in the 2019 NBA draft and spent two seasons for the Utah Jazz, whom he appeared for 41 times – including four playoff games.

In his NBA debut against the LA Lakers he pulled down three rebounds, a block and an assist.

In 2020, he was named in the All-NBA G League First Team and the NBA G League All-Rookie Team.

"His resume reflects his skill and talent and physical capabilities, which will be clear to everyone who watches our games," said Maor.

"What most people don't know is how tough, how competitive, and how good a leader and culture setter Jarrell is.  He will be taking a dominant leadership role in our group and moulding the team into a tough competitive unit."

Brantley joins a Breakers' roster with a strong kiwi core, including Tom Abercrombie, Rob Loe, Sam Timmins, Tom Vodanovich and Dan Fotu, while Will McDowell-White provides further consistency by returning for a third season.

Australian Cam Gliddon, French Next Star Rayan Rupert and import Dererk Pardon round out the squad with one further import to be added in the coming weeks.

The full roster is expected to assemble in Auckland to begin pre-season by August 15.

SKY SPORT BREAKERS ROSTER

One further Import to be added to Roster.  (I) = Import (NS) = Next Star