COLLINGWOOD Category B rookie Jack Madgen will make his AFL debut on Saturday against Sydney.

The 192cm defender spent four years playing college basketball in the United States prior to being signed by the Pies in November — and has been an impressive player in the VFL, with the rookie upgraded last week.

Madgen played as a shooting guard at Delta State University in Ohio, before playing for the Carins Taipans in the 2016/2017 NBL season.

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Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley told reporters on Thursday that Madgen gets his opportunity with defender Jeremy Howe ruled out of their match with the Swans — after not training on Tuesday and Thursday.

“Jack will play his first game and it’s been an interesting first year for him on a senior list. He was able to raise his game, when playing against AFL players for the first time and has worked his way through the VFL competition,” Buckley said.

“He broke his jaw, but has worked his way back in the last month, he gets his opportunity due to Howey (Jeremy Howe) who will miss. He’s played as a key back.”

Buckley suggested that Howe was likely to miss just the one week, but wouldn’t be risked in the likely contested contest against Sydney.

“It was a pretty big hit, the combination of the head knock and body shock. We’re anticipating a really physical and contested game this week, so we’re picking the fittest 22 players that are able to contest over the four quarters.”

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Taipans development players Jack Madgen (left) and Ash Constable with Retiring Cairns Taipan Mark Worthington. Photo: Stewart McLean

The 25-year-old has averaged 14.7 disposals and 4.6 marks in 11 VFL outings for the Magpies this season.