Basketball: Webster signs new deal with Breakers

Corey Webster. Photo / Getty Images

The Breakers took another vital step towards finalising their roster for the upcoming 2015/16 Australian National Basketball League campaign today, with shooting guard Corey Webster signing on for a further three year deal.

The 26-year-old has developed into one of the league's premier scorers, backing up his stellar FIBA World Cup in 2014 with a break-out year for the four time champions.

Webster moved to a starting role last season, averaging a club leading 15.3 points per game and 1.7 assists per game, including a career high mark of 24 points in the first semi-final against Adelaide to set the Breakers on a post-season sweep to the title.

But the man known as 'the microwave' for his ability to heat up quickly earned plaudits from head coach Dean Vickerman not just for his renowned offence, but for his increased contribution at the defensive end of the floor.

"Corey will always be known as a scorer but it was his commitment to defensive challenges and growth in leadership that pleased the coaching staff the most last season and it is that all round contribution that makes him such a valuable member of our club," Vickerman said.

"Corey's improved output last season came as no surprise to anyone who has watched his career develop. He has been an elite scorer his whole career but was required to play behind two great New Zealand Breakers in Kirk Penney & CJ Bruton. Coming off a fantastic performance for the Tall Blacks at the World Champs Corey earned the opportunity to start last season, an opportunity he grabbed with both hands to lead the Breakers in scoring in what is now very much 'his time'."

Webster is delighted to have confirmed his future with the club that he first played for as a development player in 2008.

"I am pleased to know that the next three years of my career will be with the SkyCity Breakers. In making the decision Emily (Webster's wife) and I had to consider where we wanted to live, to make our home and to play out the next phase of my career and there was no question we want to be with the Breakers family.

"Our success last year has motivated me to return even hungrier for more and to further develop my game. I have spoken with Coach Vickerman about my role and the possibility of playing some point guard as well as in the two-spot, and that excites me. Bring it on!"

Webster however has not shut down the possibility of playing at a higher level, with the club and player agreeing on an NBA out clause should an opportunity come up to play on the biggest stage.

"I am still only 26 and believe my best basketball is ahead of me and I want to test myself against the best in America and give myself a shot at playing in the NBA. I have an opportunity this week in Indiana with the Pacers and will do all I can to impress. I do this with the blessing of the Breakers."

Webster brings to eight the number of contracted players at the club, with the guard joining versatile swingman Tom Abercrombie, point guard Cedric Jackson, guard/forward Reuben Te Rangi, forward Mika Vukona, forward Duane Bailey, centre Alex Pledger and forward Tai Wesley in returning to suit up for last season's champions.