Fear not, fans: Kevin could come to rescue

Don't despair just yet Jets fans; help could be on the way.

American Kevin Smith, who has played for Waikato and the Bay Hawks in the National Basketball League, is set to sign with the Manawatu Jets, providing he gets clearance from New Zealand immigration.

The 1.94m small forward is in Australia and has married a Kiwi, meaning he would be eligible to play as a New Zealander and wouldn't affect the import quota.

Manawatu Jets coach Ryan Weisenberg said Smith was almost cleared in time to play on Saturday in their 118-76 loss to the Bay Hawks.

"I was hoping he would've been in uniform tonight," Weisenberg said on Saturday.

"It'll be definitely this week we'll find out something.

"He's just waiting for New Zealand immigration to issue him a passport because he's married a Kiwi.

"He's put all his paperwork through. We've put all our paperwork through for him."

Smith could be in the squad for the next game against Harbour at the North Shore in two weeks.

As well as being a leader on court, Weisenberg said he expected Smith would average 20 points a game for the Jets.

"He's going to be one of those players that the fans really love because he's electric and he does the things you want to see."

- © Fairfax NZ News