The wait is over for Josiah-Jordan James. He is not staying in the United States. He is headed to New Zealand to play for the Breakers. This one-year deal was announced on Wednesday, according to On3 Volunteers. It is a smart move for a player who needs to show scouts he can score and lead. The former Tennessee guard will now play in Australia’s National Basketball League. This is the same league where many players find their way back to the NBA or stay as stars overseas. James proved he can handle the grind, and now he gets a fresh start.
Why the Breakers Make Sense
James brings a lot of value to Auckland. He stands 6-foot-6 and knows how to play defense. During his five years at Tennessee, the team made it to the Sweet 16 and an Elite Eight. His last year saw them claim the SEC regular-season title. On3 Volunteers reported that James was an essential defensive presence for the Vols. Across his final three seasons, the squad held a top-5 ranking in adjusted defensive efficiency. That kind of grit is hard to find. The Breakers need that right now. They are the lone New Zealand-based team in the league, so they need a leader who can step up and make plays when the game gets tough.
His Numbers Tell the Story
Let’s look at the actual stats from his college career. James averaged 8.8 points and 5.9 rebounds in his five-year career at Tennessee. He played in 144 games and started 123 of them. His shooting was consistent too. Throughout his five seasons, his 3-point shooting exceeded 30%. During the 2023-24 campaign, which was his final one with the Vols, he averaged 8.4 points and 6.4 rebounds. He also played for the Indiana Mad Ants in the G League and last season for Hapoel Jerusalem in Israel. These stops show he is ready for the big stage. He is not a rookie who needs to learn the ropes. He knows the game.
A Fresh Start in Auckland
This move could be the key to his next big step. James was a five-star recruit who picked UT over offers from powerhouse programs. The 247Sports Composite listed him as No. 22 in the nation. Now he gets to prove himself in a new league. The Breakers signed him on Wednesday, and the team is ready to go. Fans in Tennessee will miss him, but this is a great chance for him to shine. He can show the world he is more than just a college player. He can be a pro who impacts the game every night. What do you think? Is this the perfect spot for James to launch his next career phase?
