Looking to rebound
Skeete back in the Highlanders lineup after broken hand
The past week for Jarryn Skeete was like starting his first pro season all over again.
The Cape Breton Highlanders rookie broke his hand in a freak accident on a rebound during the second game of the season on Dec. 28 against the Moncton Miracles. He made his return to the court on Sunday in a 112-96 loss to the Halifax Hurricanes at Centre 200.
The 23-year-old from Brampton, Ont., logged 22 minutes of floor time and finished with five points and three assists. He said although he was still getting his game wind back, he felt pretty good.
“It’s been a lot of observing and learning the game from a different perspective,” said the 6-3 guard. “Watching at home and supporting my guys, and just trying to see where I can come in and help right away.”
It’s been a tough start for Skeete, but he’s taking this season as a learning experience, and has apprenticed under veterans like Hank Thorns and Booker Woodfox.
“I’m just trying to enjoy my time as a rookie, learn from the guys older than me and do whatever my team needs me to do and try to get as many wins as we can.”
Skeete is a graduate of the
University of Buffalo, and says the biggest change he’s noticed is the physicality in the pro game. He’s glad to be able to continue his career in Canada.
“It’s not too close, but it’s in the same country, so it’s easier for (my family) to travel,” he said. “Staying at home and experiencing pro for my first year here is kind of cool. It’s helping build my story.”
The Highlanders will look to snap a five-game losing streak against the Miracles on Sunday at Centre 200, a 3 p.m. start. Cape Breton is fifth in the National Basketball League of Canada’s Atlantic Division with a 6-14 record, while Moncton is last at 6-15.