Breakers to honour 'heart and soul of organisation'

The New Zealand Breakers have announced they honour club legend Tom Abercrombie with a retirement ceremony on Friday, January 30.

The ceremony, which will accompany the Breakers’ Round 19 clash with Melbourne United, will see a #10 banner in Abercrombie’s name raised to the rafter, alongside legends Paul Henare and CJ Bruton.

“Tom Abercrombie is the heart and soul of this organisation,” Breakers owner Marc Mitchell said

“His loyalty to this jersey is unparalleled in modern sport.

“We are retiring the number 10 to honour the standard of excellence and integrity Tom set for 16 seasons.

“It is only fitting that no Breaker will ever wear number 10 again.

"He was always a favourite of the fans, so we look forward to the Breaker Nation filling Spark Arena to give him the tribute he deserves.”

Abercrombie, who called time on his illustrious career at the conclusion of the NBL24 season, spent his entire 16-year professional journey with the Breakers.

The now 38-year-old, who won four championships with the club and claimed the Grand Final MVP in 2011, remains the club’s all-time leader in points (4,448), appearances (443), steals (302), and three-pointers made (568).

“Tom has been the ultimate professional and a leader for generations of Kiwis coming through our ranks,” Breakers president of basketball operations Dillon Boucher said.

“To see his jersey join the likes of Paul Henare and CJ Bruton in the rafters is a moment every Breakers fan will want to witness.

“It is the highest honour a club can bestow on a player.”

The ceremony will give fans a chance to relive Abercrombie’s iconic highlights and hear heartfelt tributes from former teammates.

New Zealand next play Sydney on Friday night at Spark Arena, tipping off at 5.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.