Kell out, but 36ers ready for NZ challenge

Adelaide 36ers begin their NBL Blitz campaign on Sunday afternoon against New Zealand Breakers without star import signing Trey Kell.

Kell won’t take any part in the week-long tournament on the Gold Coast after injuring his left knee at training last Thursday.

The swingman has travelled to Queensland with the team, but will be replaced in the roster by Jacob Rigoni.

“MRI scans showed some bruising to the knee joint and it’s best for Trey to sit out next week,” Adelaide 36ers Head of Medical Tristan Chai said.

New Zealand won’t be at full strength either with star point guard Will McDowell-White to miss the match with a hand injury.

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Reports say McDowell-White will also miss the entire NBL Blitz campaign and may also be questionable for the start of the regular season.

Adelaide will be looking to bounce back from last week’s 103-78 loss to Brisbane Bullets, with head coach CJ Bruton focusing on a new Blitz campaign.

“We are looking for growth within our group and being ready for round one,” Bruton said.

Sunday Dech returns to the 36ers roster for the first time since playing a big role in South Sudan’s 17^th place finish at the recent FIBA World Cup.

“I just can’t wait to get back on the court with the guys and get back to work,” Dech said.

You can watch the game live and exclusive on Kayo Freebies from 12.30pm ACST on Sunday.