Basketball: Birthday boy lands plum role

Adam Darragh will back up Paul Henare. Mark Nolan / Getty Images

Adam Darragh celebrated his 27th birthday yesterday with a timely gift - inclusion in the New Zealand Breakers' 10-man roster for the upcoming Australian National Basketball League.

The Gold Coast-raised point guard fended off the challenges of compatriots Jonathon Shepherd and Brad Kelleher, plus Nelson's Michael Fitchett, to nail the back-up spot to Breakers captain Paul Henare.

The quartet had more than a fortnight trialling with the club before head coach Andrej Lemanis made his call.

"Adam's an extrovert and provides a real energy on and off the court," Lemanis said.

Darragh made 60 ANBL appearances during stints with the Brisbane Bullets and West Sydney Razorbacks.

He was delighted to have made the cut.

"It's a great opportunity and a fresh start for me. I want to be a leader and provide a spark for Andrej and the team.

"When I step on court to give Paul [Henare] a rest I want the intensity to remain and the boys to have every confidence that we won't miss a beat."

Meanwhile, the Breakers are also close to finalising a replacement for import Rich Melzer, who has joined the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA after an impressive 2005-06 season.

The ANBL season starts on September 20, with the Breakers starting their campaign at home against Melbourne's South Dragons in round two six days later.

- NZPA