Ex-NBA star Chris Johnson will make his return to the Auckland Tuatara for their final round robin match against the high-flying Wellington Saints at Eventfinda Stadium on Saturday night.
Johnson lit up the Sal’s NBL through the opening half of the competition, helping the Tuatara race out of the gates and was arguably the most dominant player in the league through the first six weeks.
The 6’11 big man went back to the United States in mid-June for the lucrative Big3 3X3 tournament but returns to Auckland to help drive the Tuatara’s playoff charge.
“It is so good to have CJ coming back to join our group,” said coach Aaron Young.
“He is an integral part of what we do and played a huge role in helping us secure a playoffs berth and it is going to be a great advantage welcoming him back.
“He brings so much to our group on and off the court and we absolutely love him.”
Johnson had already committed to the Big3 tournament prior to signing with the Tuatara for 2022 and was only too keen to get back on a plane and join up with his teammates once his American commitments were completed.
He helps form a formidable front court duo alongside Tall Blacks and Breakers gun Rob Loe.
Also returning to the Tuatara for this weekend’s key clash is Tall Blacks forward Taki Fahrensohn, who has missed the past three games on international duty.
Fahrensohn had a big impact with the Tall Blacks and grew through the experience, earning a bronze medal at the Asia Cup and with some massive performances in big games.
The talented young forward is a key two-way player for the Tuatara and will give the side a massive boost as they battle for playoff seeding against the defending champions, who themselves are desperately trying to secure a playoff berth.
The game tips off at 7.30pm with a sell-out crowd expected.
Fans are encouraged to secure seats in advance so as to avoid disappointment – they can be purchased via www.tuatarabasketball.com.