VERSATILE French forward Masse Doumbe has signed for Cheshire Phoenix.
The 6ft 8ins 25-year-old from Le Mans arrives at the Northgate Arena having spent a brief period last season with Kolossos Rhodes in the Greek A1 League.
Head coach John Lavery believes his new signing will add strength to what is already physically-imposing Phoenix roster.
He said: “Masse is a versatile forward who is capable of finding a way to score however the opposition defend.
“I think he will be very difficult to stop and is exactly the kind of player to get the Northgate Arena crowd whipped up and on its feet from the opening play.”
After transferring from Radford University Doumbe graduated from Northwood University in Florida. In his final season there he averaged 19.3 points, 10 rebounds and two steals.
After missing out in the 2012 NBA draft he returned to France to join up with Cholet in the Pro A league before switching to Kolossos in the latter part of the season.
Lavery added: “I’m excited to be back in charge of the Phoenix in the British Basketball League and, with the players we have already recruited and those we are close to sealing, I think this is going to be a thrilling campaign for the club.”
The BBL has announced the first four games to be shown on BBL TV, their new live-streaming service.
It tips off at the Emirates Arena on Sunday, October 6 when Glasgow Rocks play Surrey Heat.
Four days later the action moves to Worcester Wolves versus London Lions, while Rocks against Newcastle Eagles and Plymouth University Raiders at Lions will be screened later the same month.
