Tall Blacks forward Isaac Fotu turned down a chance to join the Boston Celtics in the NBA's Summer League because it meant he would have missed their game against China.
The 24-year-old starred in New Zealand's win over the visitors, leading his team in scoring with 15 points, but it could have been very different.
- Tall Blacks beat China to finish top of FIBA World Cup qualifying pool
- Fotu family relishing time together on home court
The Celtics approached Fotu a day before their game against Hong Kong, but he quickly turned down the offer as it meant he wouldn't have been able to play in Sunday's FIBA World Cup qualifier against China.
Fotu, who currently plys his trade in Germany, revealed at the post-match presser it was an easy decision and not one that will be keeping him up awake at night.
"I thought about it for one or two seconds and then I realised how much I love playing for this team, playing with my brothers, and we had a home game in Auckland in front of my friends and family - so it didn't take long at all to decide that," he said.
"Every chance I get, I'm going to be playing."
It comes just days after Tall Blacks guard accepted the Miami Heat's invitation to play in their Summer League team.
Head coach Paul Henare was full of praise for his star player and believes it's testament to the culture they've created.
"It's unbelievable - for it to be a no-brainer decision for him just emphasises the fact of how much this team means to him," he said.
"That's what makes this team so special, when guys are willing to get out here and go to battle with their brothers. That's a pretty special decision to make. The pride these guys have in playing for their country is amazing."
Newshub.
