Kiwi basketball legend Kirk Penney will suit up for the Auckland Tuatara in their final home game of the Sal’s NBL season against the defending champion Wellington Saints on Saturday night.
Penney will help out coach Aaron Young and the Tuatara side, who are without talented youngster Dontae Russo-Nance for this match.
The 41-year-old Penney, retired in 2018 after a glittering career but has trained with the team this week and will play in the domestic league for the first time in over two decades.
“The plan is to go out there and support the guys and support the team,” he said after training on Thursday night.
“There is a situation where Dontae can’t play because he is at the NBA Global Camp in Australia, and Aaron called to fill a hole and help out the boys for the last game.
“Obviously playing on the home court where I grew up and have many fond Tall Black and Breakers moments is a little bit of added fun.
“I’m encouraged to see the excitement and growth in both the WNBL and the NBL this season. It continues to showcase our talent and create pathways for our next generation to develop for future opportunities.
“I love what the Tuatara represent and I’m just a fan supporting in a slightly unique way on Saturday.”
Penney joins American import Chris Johnson and Tall Blacks forward Taki Fahrensohn in the game day squad for the Tuatara, who are guaranteed a playoff spot.
The game tips off at 7.30pm at Eventfinda Stadium with a sell-out crowd expected.
Fans are urged to pre-book tickets via www.tuatarabasketball.com.