NZ Breakers have confirmed the Australian NBL's worst-kept secret, signing 2.29m (7ft 6in) NBA centre Tacko Fall for the remainder of the current season and all the next.
Fall, 28, was first linked with the Auckland-based team, when he joined their three-game US visit last month, then returned home with them to complete injury rehab.
Although he did not have a signed contract and the Breakers had already filled their import quota, he spoke about playing in the Aussie league and a anticipated reunion with Illawarra Hawks coach Justin Tatum — father of former Boston Celtics teammate Jayson Tatum.
The Breakers subsequently parted ways with American centre Freddie Gillespie, opening the way for Fall to officially join the roster.
"Tacko is a gamechanger," said Breakers chief executive Lisa Edser. "His size, shot-blocking ability and rebounding give him a unique edge.
"Beyond the court, he’s a team-first player with an incredible work ethic. He has been working hard to get playing fit and we are pleased to see him fully integrated into our squad."
Undrafted in 2019, Fall saw very little meaningful court-time over three NBA seasons with Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers, but developed a cult following for his height, with fans often cheering for his appearance at the end of blowout games.
"I'm honoured to have the opportunity to play for the Breakers," he said. "New Zealand has a great basketball culture and the fans here are incredible.
"I’m ready to give my all for this team."
He joins a team sitting second on the league ladder with seven wins and three losses, and Gillespie leading the league in blocked shots at the heart of the competition's stingiest defence (85.2 points a game).
Fall certainly has the potential to dominate defensively around the basket, but his mobility has previously been questioned by NBA scouts.
His first outing for the Breakers will be at Illawarra on Thursday, with his first home game scheduled for Christchurch on December 5 against league leaders Melbourne United.
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