HE MAY have missed out on two NBL Championships and a chance to go to the Olympics, but Adelaide midfielder Hugh Greenwood will realise a life-long dream when he makes his AFL debut in Saturday night's clash with the Brisbane Lions at the Gabba.  

Greenwood stunned the Perth Wildcats in August, 2015 when he quit the club on the eve of the NBL season so he could chase his AFL dream.  

The 25-year-old was only in the first month of a three-year deal with the Wildcats, and many doubted whether he could crack even one AFL game.

Greenwood, a talented guard in American college basketball, joined the Crows as a category B rookie in 2015, despite having not played football for eight years.  

And after averaging 24 disposals, eight tackles, seven clearances, and a goal in the SANFL this season, Greenwood was rewarded with a senior call-up.  

The Wildcats were rocked by Greenwood's departure at the time. But the club recovered from the blow to win the next two NBL Championships, with Greenwood's replacement Jarrod Kenny playing a crucial role off the bench.  

And although Greenwood missed out on the chance to represent the Boomers at the Olympics, he can now strut his stuff on the AFL stage.  

Hugh Greenwood in action for NCAA team New Mexico. Picture: Getty Images

Jordan Gallucci, the No.15 pick in last year's national draft, will make his debut alongside Greenwood as Adelaide attempt to snap a two-match losing run.

Coach Don Pyke was ruthless at the selection table, dumpingJosh Jenkins and David Mackay.

Jake Lever also comes into the team and Troy Menzel is out with a quad injury.