The Tall Blacks have received a boost for Monday's basketball World Cup qualifier against Lebanon in Rotorua.
Guard Corey Webster has made himself available for the crucial clash, which will have implications on Group E in World Cup qualifying.
Both teams are on 13 points, with six wins and one loss, with five games remaining.
Webster missed the first part of the international window, so he could continue to settle back into the country, after spending time away overseas. Coach Paul Henare says it was a decision that he and the coaching staff discussed at length, with Ethan Rusbatch being the player to make way for Webster.
"Corey is a quality international basketballer though, and brings all of his experience and scoring ability to the group, as well as leadership as a senior player," he said.
"He knows what is required to win big games and will relish the chance to have an impact. It is great to have him back with the group."
Webster's inclusion is a massive boost, considering his Tall Blacks teammates had less than 48 hours to prepare for the clash at Energy Events Centre.
On Friday (NZ time), the Tall Blacks beat Syria 107-66 in Beirut, Lebanon, and then made a long-haul flight, via Doha and Singapore, back to Auckland on Saturday night, before catching a bus to Rotorua.
Lebanon also travelled from Beirut, but they took a direct flight and landed on Saturday morning.
So having a fresh body that hasn't travelled may be a difference maker.
Henare told Newshub on Saturday the travel schedule wasn't fair on both teams.
"This is asking lots from both teams," he said. "Both of us were playing in Beirut a couple of days ago and are expected on Monody night.
"While we're playing for our country and going to give it our all, I don't think it's conducive to putting the best product on the floor, which would be one of FIBA's primary goals.
"We're tied with Lebanon on [on 13 points]. The winner of this game will stay top of the table and it means, for us, every win we get, we're one step closer to our goal of qualifying for the World Cup."
Newshub.
