-
Former Townsville Crocodile John Rillie - Source: Getty -
Related
The whirlwind signing of veteran John Rillie is a timely move for the Breakers.
With star Kirk Penney set for another two-to-three weeks on the sideline, the Breakers have shown in recent weeks the need for another point-scorer.
Lemanis made that move on Tuesday with the acquisition of 38-year-old Rillie.
Rillie, a true veteran of the ANBL, offers genuine scoring ability and can knock them down from three-point territory.
He's in a similar mould to Penney and will also add a tonne of experience to his new side.
Nearing the 40 mark, Rillie told media that he was surprised with the last-minute call-up from the Breakers.
"I was surprised at this point in time but I guess as the season progressed I was thinking the opportunity might arise somewhere," he said.
"I had my finger in a lot of pies, an each way bet all over the place.
"I'll look at a basketball opportunity anywhere and I guess the thing that's inviting for me coming and playing for the Breakers is the group of players they have - a veteran group.
"I'm just grateful for the opportunity, basketball's what I've done for a long time."
Coach Andrej Lemanis confirmed that when it was revealed Penney wouldn't be back for this Thursday's home game against the Perth Wildcats, something had to be done quickly.
So Rillie got the call-up and was on a plane shortly after packing his bags. He leaves behind his family in Townsville who will wait for his move back home at the end of the season.
And after a crash course with his new team-mates at training on Tuesday, he is all set to suit up against Perth this week.
Rillie is a proven winner and a perfect candidate for Lemanis to call upon at such short notice.
"You play the situation as it unfolds in front of you and with Kirk's injury I felt we needed a bit of cover in that position," Lemanis said.
"I know John and have coached him before so I know what he brings to the table."
Meanwhile, Lemanis has put the axing of American import Awvee Storey down to "team chemistry issues."
"There's a certain mix and chemistry within a group and sometimes it doesn't gel out how you want it to.
"He's a great guy and has done everything we've asked of him so it was a tough decision and one that wasn't taken lightly."
Storey averaged 7.8 points per game and 5.1 rebounds per game in nine outings this season.
Lemanis was hesitant to comment on whether the club was looking for a new import.
