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An injury setback for the NBL Next Star.

19 Aug
NBL.com.au Writers

Illawarra Hawks guard AJ Johnson has suffered a broken nose after taking inadvertent contact at training. 

Johnson will have surgery on Tuesday with a return to court plan to be determined post the operation. The NBL Next Star remains a chance to feature at the NBL Blitz next month.

“We have been thrilled with AJ’s progression throughout training camp. He has been a seamless fit with our group, and we are excited to see him grow and develop,” Hawks GM of Basketball Mat Campbell said.

“While AJ’s injury will slightly disrupt his preseason, we have no doubt he will return to the court soon and build strongly towards the start of the season.”

Johnson signed with the Hawks in April under the NBL Next Stars program. He is one of America’s brightest young talents and is projected to be a first round pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.

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