Former New Zealand Breakers guard Kevin Braswell admits he is surprised after being unveiled as their new head coach in the NBL.
American Braswell has signed a three-year deal at the club whom he helped to win the first of their four championships, in 2011.
The 39-year-old played two seasons with the Breakers before settling in New Zealand where he has coached in the domestic NBL.
He led the Southland Sharks to titles in two of his five seasons in charge before coaching the Wellington Saints to successive crowns in 2016 and 2017.
The Baltimore native will be a natural fit at the Breakers, according to chief executive Matt Walsh.
"He's someone who knows the club and has a strong association with the NBL," he said.
"This has been a tough process with KB winning out over a list of high-quality candidates. His vision for the team and the style of play that he will bring fits with our vision.
"We will play an up-tempo exciting brand of basketball."
Braswell replaces Paul Henare, who announced his resignation soon after the Breakers were eliminated in the semi-finals by Melbourne United.
Henare hasn't been drawn on the reason for his departure but reports say he couldn't come to terms with the club's new American owners.
Braswell admits he was shocked to get the nod, only having considered applying earlier this month.
"This is an unbelievable opportunity, I honestly am at a loss for words in a way," he said.
"It wasn't my plan to be head coach of the Breakers but the opportunity opened up out of the blue and suddenly it got exciting."
Braswell said he had also considered applying for the then-vacant Cairns Taipans job but was keen to remain in New Zealand.
"In coaching you always want to keep moving, keep progressing, for me this is the next step.
"There is nothing more I can accomplish in the New Zealand league, it is time to take my ability to a higher level."
Braswell won't waste any time in getting to work.
With the NBL free agency opening on Monday, he and Walsh have already compared notes on potential signings.
