Official: Yanni Wetzell heading to Baskonia / News - Basketnews.com

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A 25-year-old center Yanni Wetzell is heading to Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz.

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The New Zealand Breakers officially confirmed that they agreed to release Wetzell from the remainder of his contract, with their star big man set to join Spanish EuroLeague team Baskonia.

The transfer was first reported on BasketNews.

2.08 m frontcourt player is expected to join the EuroLeague club until the end of the season with an option to remain for one more year, sources say BasketNews.

"The opportunity to play in the EuroLeague has been a goal of mine since I was at school; it has just come earlier than I expected," Wetzell was quoted in the official press release.

"I want to thank Matt Walsh and the Breakers for their incredible support and what I’ve learned in my season with the club. This opportunity would not have presented itself without the unwavering energy the Breakers coaching staff have put into my game," he added. "I am a Breaker for life."

Wetzell averaged 17.7 points (FG 60%), 8.2 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and one block per game in 22 NBL appearances.

He was the top scorer of his team, playing alongside the former EuroLeague point guard Peyton Siva and projected NBA lottery pick Ousmane Dieng.

Breakers were last on the NBL standings.

In 2020-21, Wetzell made his pro-debut with the South East Melbourne Phoenix, averaging 11.2 points, six rebounds, and 1.6 assists in 39 NBL games.

Before his rookie season, Wetzell had an agreement with MHP RIESEN Ludwigsburg but didn't join the German club due to issues with his passport.

Baskonia, who were looking for the frontline addition for a while, didn't make the EuroLeague playoffs. They're currently 7th in the Liga Endesa.

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