Rupert made himself an indispensable cog in a title-chasing New Zealand side in NBL23, despite suffering a wrist injury early in the season.

He made a total of 28 appearances for the Breakers across the season, and was often tasked with defending the opposition’s most dangerous player when he was on the floor.

Despite initially being slated as a first-round selection the promise of a contract saw Rupert slide down to the 44th selection in the NBA Draft and be given a three-year deal by the Portland Trail Blazers.

Rupert on the NBL: "It was a great opportunity to grow as a player and as a person and play far from my country. Rupert said of his experience in New Zealand. It was an amazing journey."

‍