Losing a marquee player like Cedric Jackson is disappointing but nothing the New Zealand Breakers say they haven't dealt with before.
The MVP of the National Basketball League tweeted on Friday that he wouldn't be returning for a third season for the Auckland franchise, who have won the past three NBL titles.
Jackson was clearly the best point guard in the NBL, regularly standing out with his speed, penetration, vision and outstanding defence.
But Breakers head coach Dean Vickerman says the club will deal with his departure the same way they dealt with that of previous stars Kirk Penney and Gary Wilkinson.
"When Kirk left, people said we would struggle - we won the championship. When Gary left, people said we would struggle - we won another championship," Vickerman said.
"We are already working with our contacts to find another very good player ... I am confident in our systems and our reputation that we will be successful in that search."
Jackson has been playing in the Summer League in the United States while seeking a NBA contract but he's more likely to find a spot with a European club in the next season.
Breakers general manager Richard Clarke says the club has planned for Jackson's possible departure.
"Obviously we would love for Cedric to have returned for another season or two but, after his stellar performances in helping us win two championships, he was always going to be in demand.
"Initially, he is chasing his dream of returning to the NBA but the opportunities and money in Europe are beyond us and beyond the Australian NBL at this point. We have had our scouts looking for possible replacements for some time and will continue with that process."
