New Zealand Breakers guard RJ. Hampton is set to make an earlier than expected return from a hip injury and play against the South East Melbourne Phoenix on Sunday.
Hampton hasn't played since the side's loss to Cairns on December 6 due to the injury, but after coming through two practice sessions unschated, he's been cleared to return to the court, according to ESPN.
The 18-year-old was set to be out for six weeks, but his return is timely with 10 games left before the playoffs.
During Hamton's absence the Breakers won five of their seven games to sit 1.5 games outside the ANBL playoffs.
The ESPN report adds that fellow Breakers guard Jarrad Weeks will miss the match against the Phoenix due to a shoulder injury.
There will be plenty of emotion for the Breakers on Sunday, who have dedicated the rest of the season to their manager Fata Letoa, who passed away on Friday.
The club paid tribute to Leota, saying he "embodied everything it means to be a Breaker. A coach, a mentor, a father and a friend."
Meanwhile, the Breakers have announced they'll pledge $1000 for every three-point shot they score against South East Melbourne to the Red Cross Bushfire appeal with a minimum $10,000 donation. Club owner Matt Walsh will match the team's donation.
