New Breakers signing RJ Hampton is quickly learning to love the Kiwi way of life, having touched down in New Zealand at the end of last week.
Arriving to play for the Breakers on a one-year deal, and with an enormous reputation on his shoulders, Hampton's signature is somewhat of a coup for both the Kiwi side, and the NBL as a whole. The 18-year-old American opted to head abroad rather than play in the US college system.
Hampton will be eligible for the NBA draft after the end of the NBL season, most likely returning to America for a shot at the big time.
Mixing and mingling with students at Auckland's Rosmini College this morning though, Hampton said he was happy to take things slow, and is looking forward to the upcoming season and settling in to his new surroundings.
"I've been here a few days, but it's been great," Hampton told media.
"Everyone's so nice here, it's kind of weird compared to America. The school was nice, all the kids were happy we came, it was a fun experience."
Hampton's first true induction into Kiwi culture saw him attend last Saturday night's Bledisloe Cup clash between the All Blacks and the Wallabies, his first game of Test rugby seeing a comprehensive 36-0 thrashing of Australia by Steve Hansen's side.
"I actually did kind of like it," Hampton said of his Eden Park experience.
"I couldn't really understand it, but everyone there was hype, I think it was fun.
Hampton and his family will be based in Mairangi Bay and he's been blown away by with the treatment he's received so far.
"We're settling in great. They got us a nice house, I'm really happy to be here."
The Breakers begin their season against the Sydney Kings on October 18.
SHARE ME