Returning Breakers centre Rick Rickert is eyeing New Zealand citizenship in attempt to play for the Tall Blacks.

The American has signed back up with the ANBL franchise after two seasons in Auckland. He and his family want to become New Zealand citizens and he would welcome the chance to wear the black singlet in the future.

Rickert is close friends with Tall Blacks captain Kirk Penney and says it would be an honour and privilege to be able to play alongside him on the international stage.

"Once I get to New Zealand we're gonna talk further about that, but that's all it is right now, it's just a thought and we're talking about it."

Rickert will arrive back in New Zealand on Friday, as the Breakers begin a pre-season tour around the country.