Star import Javon Freeman-Liberty to part ways with Brisbane Bullets

CODE sports understands the star NBL import has been dealing with challenges with his mental wellbeing and, after meetings this week, both player and club decided it was his best interests to return home to Chicago to focus on himself.

Club chief executive Mal Watts confirmed the decision was mutual.

“The wellbeing of our players always comes first and we are fully supportive of this outcome,” Watts said.

“We are grateful for Javon’s contribution to the club and wish him all the best.”

Freeman-Liberty, who has missed the Bullets’ past two games with a hamstring strain, arrived at the club with much fanfare after a stint with the Chicago Bulls at NBA Summer League where he was one of the best scorers in Vegas.

The explosive wing shot down reports last month that he was homesick.

“I’ve heard the talk, but I came to Brisbane to hoop, to win games with my teammates, and that’s exactly where my focus is,” Freeman-Liberty told CODE Sports at the time.

“The support from my teammates and the fans has been amazing, and I’m really embracing this opportunity. I’m locked in on helping us make a run this season.

“My head’s not in the rumours, it’s on the court. I came here to compete and represent the Bullets, and that’s where all my energy is right now.”

Freeman-Liberty, today, expressed gratitude to the Bullets organisation and fans and departs after two appearances, where he averaged an elite 19.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals.

“I enjoyed my time in Brisbane. I will always appreciate the support I have had here and I will be cheering the Bullets on from afar,” Freeman-Liberty said.

Bullets coach Stu Lash said the club would continue to support Freeman-Liberty but plans to move quickly in the process of finding a replacement import.

“While we are sad to see him go, this timing allows us to move decisively on improving our roster,” Lash said.

Freeman-Liberty’s shock exit is another blow for a Bullets squad that won its season-opener against New Zealand but is on a three-game skid in the wake of long-term injuries to defensive linchpins Sam McDaniel and Mitch Norton.

In better news ahead of Saturday’s clash with winless reigning champion Illawarra, the Bullets are expected to welcome back key forward Casey Prather, who missed last weekend’s loss to Tasmania with concussion.