Carey's return to US blow for Nuggets
Otago Nuggets guard Don Carey jun will miss the final two games of the National Basketball League season.
The 26-year-old American is returning home due to personal circumstances.
In a post on social media yesterday, he thanked the team's fans for their support.
"A huge shout out to the Nuggets family and our incredible fans for your support this season," he wrote.
"Whilst it hasn't always been easy on the court, you've welcomed me, showed your unwavering support for the team, and made Dunedin feel like home.
"Unfortunately, due to personal circumstances, I will be returning home early and will therefore miss our final two away games of the season.
"I thank you for understanding that I wouldn't be doing this if it wasn't important, and that, like you, I will be cheering the guys on from afar as they chase that win."
Carey has been the Nuggets' most productive scorer, averaging 22.4 points.
The shooting guard made 18 appearances for the Nuggets. One of those games was against the Indian Panthers, which was wiped from the records after they were booted out of the league.
Carey dropped 34 points against the Hawke's Bay Hawks in Napier in his second game for the franchise to lead the team to a 93-86 win.
He also played a key role in the 108-104 win over the Manawatū Jets. He made 12 assists and posted 22 points in Dunedin that night.
Unfortunately, the Nuggets have gone on a 14-game losing streak since.
Carey's departure will significantly weaken the roster.
Fellow import Jose Perez was sent home earlier in the season, so that means Jaylen Sebree is the only remaining import and he has struggled to make the impact he would have liked.
The Nuggets' remaining games are against the Airs in New Plymouth on Friday and the Jets in Palmerston North on Sunday.
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