Kiwis’ hoop dreams linked
If Webster wins a place in NBA, then Bartlett will keep his spot with Breakers
Corey Webster’s potential roster spot with the New Orleans Pelicans impacts on the hoop dreams of two Kiwi basketballers. Along with Webster’s chance to achieve a lifelong goal and play in the NBA, his progress also has huge ramifications for Everard Bartlett in the Australian NBL.
Bartlett was last month brought back to the Breakers to provide temporary cover in Webster’s absence, almost 10 years after beginning his career as a development player at the club.
The shooting guard is guaranteed his place for at least the first two fixtures of the new campaign — beginning with tomorrow night’s season-opener in Adelaide — but he knows his opportunity could disappear just as quickly.
With his fate firmly tied to that of Webster, Bartlett has more reason than most to root for his Tall Blacks teammate to win a place with the Pelicans. If Webster sticks in New Orleans, Bartlett sticks with the Breakers.
It’s a simple equation and one that has left the 29-year-old ensuring he makes the most of every moment in his return to the ANBL, having previously enjoyed two stints in Perth and a season with tomorrow’s opponent. Excitement certainly cancels out any uncertainty over his status and, in any case, Bartlett believes coach Dean Vickerman is in the tougher situation of the pair.
“I think it’s more stressful for the coaching staff,” Bartlett said. “I talked to Dean and I was like, ‘oh, man, thanks for the call, but I know you’re stressing right now, because Corey’s a big piece of this team’.
“It’s up in the air at the moment so they’re going to keep me updated as much as possible, and all I need to do is continue to work hard and take care of business on the court.”
Bartlett did just that at the preseason Blitz tournament in Townsville, leading the Breakers with 18.3 points a game and shooting 44 per cent from beyond the arc. Replacing Webster’s production will be Bartlett’s chief role for as long as he remains on the books of the defending champions, and it’s a role with which he’s had a helping hand.
“I had a bit of help coming in, knowing the guys from the national team, so it was a quick and easy fit.
“The chemistry was right there from the get-go. I had to learn a few systems and that and get back in a bit of shape but they’ve worked with me and made me feel at home. I’m just glad to be part of this team and be given this great opportunity.”
Those opportunities become fewer as an athlete’s career stretches into its second decade, so Bartlett’s gratitude is understandable. He’s well aware of the limited lifespan a sportsman faces and, starting against Adelaide tomorrow, will be determined to seize his chance.
“I just have to keep working hard and see what happens.”