Otago Nuggets power forward BJ Anthony will return to the Australian National Basketball League next year but it will be for the Adelaide 36ers.
The 24-year-old was cut from the Breakers in May last year and made no secret of his desire to return to the club.
The Breakers signed Manawatu Jets forward Jeremiah Trueman earlier this month, blocking Anthony's return.
But Anthony has been one of the best players in the New Zealand league this season. He is the competition's joint leading scorer, averaging 22.3 points, and is the eighth leading rebounder with 8.4 boards a game.
The 36ers were happy to pick up Anthony and have signed him on a two-year deal.
''I'm really looking forward to getting back into the NBL and taking the next step in my career,'' Anthony said in a statement.
''I have a lot of respect for coach [Joey] Wright and he is a big reason why I'm heading to Adelaide.''
Wright is just as excited to get the opportunity to work with Anthony.
''BJ brings us a toughness on the defensive end of the court and has a strong work ethic,'' Wright said.
''His ability to score will bea bonus for us.''
Anthony spent two seasons with the Breakers before heading to Germany, for a stint with the Magdeburg Eagles for the 2012-13 season, where he was named in the league's all-star five.
He was also part of the Tall Blacks squad at the 2010 world championships and has been selected in the training squad for the Oceania championships in August.
Meanwhile, Anthony's Otago team-mate, Akeem Wright, has been named player of the week for a second time.
Wright won the award for his performance in the 110-102 win over Manawatu Jets in Palmerston North. Wright scored 33 points and grabbed eight rebounds.
