The Sky Tower Auckland Huskies are delighted to announce the signing of experienced guard Jeremy Kendle for the beginning of the Sal’s NBL season.
The American has signed a three-game deal and will suit up for the opening game at EnviroNZ Franklin Bulls and for the home games against the Property Brokers Manawatu Jets and Mike Pero Nelson Giants.
“We are grateful that a player of Jeremy’s calibre and experience is able to help us out on a short-term basis,” said Huskies General Manager Matt Lacey.
“Huskies fans will be aware that original signing Armoni Brooks is unable to join us having secured an NBA contract with the Houston Rockets. Jeremy will join us while we work through the complex process of securing a permanent replacement for Armoni.”
The opening of the travel bubble with Australia has helped the Huskies as Kendle, based in Brisbane with wife Nadia and their 17-month twins, will be able to join the team immediately.
Kendle is no stranger to the New Zealand. Not only did he play for the Wheeler Motor Company Canterbury Rams in 2017 and more recently the SIT Zero Fees Southland Sharks in 2019, but his wife Nadia is from Nelson.
Neither is the Jeffersonville, Indiana native unfamiliar with short-term engagements. Only last month he played three games for the Breakers as they underwent some player changes and in February he did the same for the Adelaide 36ers as they also juggled roster alterations.
Kendle is positive about the value he can add to the Huskies team.
“This is my ninth season playing professional basketball so I believe I can bring leadership, play-making ability and basketball know-how at both ends of the floor.
“Even though it is a short term contract it is a great opportunity for me to help the club out for a few games.”
Kendle arrives in Auckland this week and is looking forward to meeting his new teammates and the coaching staff ahead of the “Battle of the North” against the Bulls this Sunday.
“I’m excited to be heading to Auckland, link up with the Huskies, and meet Coach Young. Tom Abercrombie only had good things to say about him so I look forward to building that relationship.”
Additional Huskies player signings are due to be announced in the near future.
The Huskies begin their 2021 Sal's NBL campaign with a trip down the southern motorway on Sunday to take on the Bulls at 7:30pm.
The Huskies first home game will be on Friday April 30th against Manawatu Jets at Eventfinda Stadium.
You can purchase your tickets to our first ever home game by clicking here.
