Ahead of tonight's clash with Leicester Riders, Cheshire Phoenix have announced the signing of Chicagoan point guard Mike DiNunno and confirmed the exit of Aleek Pauline as coach John Coffino continues to look for ways to strengthen his squad.
The 24-year-old 5ft 11ins graduate of NCAA Division One college Eastern Kentucky has spent time playing in Bulgaria and Italy before joining the Nix and he brings good court vision and a nice three-point stroke to the side.
Coach Coffino believes his awareness and basketball intelligence will enable him to effectively run the offence and allow the team to maximise their scoring opportunities while limiting turnovers. In addition his diligence on the defensive end should help tighten things up further for a Nix team which is already formidable as a defensive unit.
The arrival of DiNunno means fellow point guard Pauline has been released from the squad.
“Releasing a player is never an easy thing to do especially when one is such a great person and professional as Aleek is,” said Coach Coffino.
“However we needed a boost at that position and Mike gives us what we are looking for in a point guard.
“He comes from a great programme in Eastern Kentucky and has been well coached by someone I have known a long time in Jeff Neubauer. We are excited to give Mike the opportunity to run this team and continue to take us in the direction we are presently heading.
“I am looking forward to coaching Mike upon his arrival and know the Cheshire fans will welcome him with open arms.”
