BNZ Breakers To Retire Tom Abercrombie Jersey (#10)

The BNZ Breakers proudly announced they would "retire the jersey" of the club’s most decorated player, Tom Abercrombie. This marks a significant moment in the club’s history, honouring a player who has had an extraordinary impact on the BNZ Breakers Club and basketball in New Zealand.

The announcement came as a surprise to Tom, who was invited to training to observe and speak with the players. After the training, in the middle of the BNZ Breakers huddle, President of Basketball Operations Dillon Boucher broke the news. Players and staff erupted in loud clapping and cheering as everyone congratulated him on this momentous achievement.

Boucher said "Tom is a legend of this club and has been involved in winning all 4 championships. He embodies what it means to be a Breaker both on and off the court."

Abercrombie joins the club's  most exclusive fraternity, becoming only the fourth player to receive this distinction, cementing his legacy beside Paul Henare (#32), the longtime captain and former coach; Dillon Boucher (#24), the four-time champion and C.J. Bruton (#23), the legendary point guard who orchestrated the Breakers’ historic championship 'three-peat'. Former owners Paul and Liz Blackwell are also honoured with a symbolic jersey retired in their name, representing the significant Blackwell family contribution to the club.  

At a game later in the season, a ceremony will see his famous "Number 10" raised to the rafters to hang permanently alongside the franchise’s founding pillars. 

Club Owner and Chairman Marc Mitchell said "Awarding this honour is something that was at the top of my list when I bought the team. Tom is a true icon of New Zealand sport and has always represented the values of the Club, first as a player and now as an owner. We look forward to celebrating Tom and for the fans and basketball community to be a part of it.”

Tom said "This is the highest honour in basketball. I am particularly pleased for my family who supported me throughout my career. I will reflect and celebrate with my family, and the fans on this achievement.   

"To have my name recognised with the Blackwells, Bruton, Boucher and Henare is humbling and means so much to me."

His jersey retirement ceremony will a highly anticipated moment for the BNZ Breakers and New Zealand basketball. Fans will be encouraged to attend to join the celebration, which will be during a home game later in the season.

See full stats sheet attached.​​

The Career of Tom Abercrombie

Played 16 seasons (2008–2023), debuting and retiring against the Illawarra Hawks.  Won four NBL championships and is the only player to appear in all six of the club's Grand Final series.

Named Grand Final MVP during the maiden 2011 title run and selected to the All-NBL First Team in 2012. He remains the club's all-time leader in nearly every major category:

• Games Played: 429
• Games Won: 241 (56% win rate)
• Points: 4,448 (High score: 33 pts)
• Steals: 304
• Blocks: 262

The BNZ Breakers are now on the road in Australia looking to build on their recent winning momentum.

Upcoming Schedule:

 

ENDS