Wolves poised to lose second American star (From Evesham Journal)

Wolves poised to lose second American star

5:58pm Friday 20th July 2012 in Worcester Wolves By Steve Carley, @stevecarleyWN

WORCESTER Wolves look set to lose a second of last season’s stars with Tommy Freeman unlikely to return to the club.

Richie Gordon, another of the top performers in the British Basketball League last term, has already left the University of Worcester side to join Swiss champions Lugano Tigers.

Now, fellow American forward Freeman is also seeking to ply his trade away from the BBL following a fine debut season in the competition.

The 23-year-old was a key figure in helping Wolves to third in the table, their highest ever placing, and averaged nearly 20 points per game. He was also the BBL’s top scorer during February with an average of over 28 points per game.

Director of basketball Paul James said: “Tommy had an outstanding season for the Wolves. He made the BBL team of the week on multiple occasions and was then named as the best player in the entire league for February.

“To come straight out of college and make such an impact was quite an achievement and he has naturally attracted a lot of interest from other clubs.”

Wolves have secured the services of three of last year’s squad in American point guard Sherrad Prezzie-Blue, Spanish forward Carlos Fernandez and Lithuanian centre Arnas Kazlauskas as they again seek to make their mark on the BBL.

But Gordon and Freeman will be big shoes to fill and James is determined to work hard to ensure Wolves find capable replacements.

He has held talks with several players and is hopeful of securing the talent that can make the same impact as the departing duo.

James said: “Not only did we win more games at this club last season than ever before, but those games were won with style and great entertainment for the fans.

“Tommy was indeed one part of what contributed to that. However, I want to assure everyone that I am vigorously pursuing several options that will help us maintain the excitement at the Wolves.”

Gordon rejected a new deal at the Henwick Road-based club in favour of playing in Europe and has linked up with a Tigers side that have won the Swiss Ligue Nationale de Basketball for the past three seasons.

The 22-year-old, also in his debut season in this country, capped a fine season by being named in the BBL team-of-the-year.

Wolves begin their 2012-13 campaign at home to Durham Wildcats on Saturday, September 22.