NZ Breakers have extended basketball director Dan Shamir's contract to keep him in Auckland through 2022.
The 44-year-old originally arrived from Israeli club Hapoel Holon in July on a two-year deal with an option of a third.
Despite the team's struggles so far this season, Breakers owner Matt Walsh likes what he's seen from Shamir and confirms the Israeli's third-year option has been picked up.
“Dan is creating foundations that will turn this club into a powerhouse again, which we hope will dominate the NBL for years to come,” Walsh said on the club's website.
After a shaky start to his tenure, Shamir is determined to repay the faith the club has shown him. The Breakers are mired in eighth place on the league ladder, with just four wins from 14 games.
“We are putting together a foundation of good things to come," said Shamir. "I am really proud that the ownership and the organisation is seeing the good things that are happening."
Shamir was also responsible for the disastrous signing of Glen Rice Jnr, a former star with his Israeli team, whose behavioural issues quickly came back to haunt him in NZ.
The American played just three games, before an assault charge and subsequent breach of probation saw his contract torn up.
"Although it has been a challenging start for the process, we both see that we’ve got a great future together."
Shamir's assistant, Mody Maor, has also seen his stay with the ANBL side extended until the end of 2022.
“Mody has exceeded all expectations in his short time in New Zealand," Walsh added. "It’s obvious to me that Dan and Mody are a package deal.
"By extending these contracts now, we are showing everyone that there will be stability at the Breakers for years to come."
