The London Lions have announced their third new arrival in the space of only four days. Josh Ward-Hibbert is the latest to link up with the team at the Copper-box Arena.
Standing at 6'5", forward Ward-Hibbert is not only known for his Basketballing ability, he was seen as one of the best junior tennis players on the globe back in 2011.
Playing in the Wimbledon junior category, he still holds the record for the fastest serve by a junior player after clocking a 133 mph serve.
BBL experience
He would soon switch his focus to basketball and playing for England in the European Basketball championships acted as a direct route into the BBL where he had spells for the Leicester Riders and the Derby Trailblazers.
BBL approved Ward-Hibbert will add further squad depth to an already bolstered Lions line up - something that will be crucial for the lions as they prepare for the debut season in the Champions League, and in turn, a more congested fixture list.
The forward has also won three BUCS University Championships for Loughborough University.
Last season he averaged 12 points and 6 rebounds whilst hitting 51%
from the floor and 41% from the three-point line.
"He brings a lot of energy"
Vince Macaulay, Lions head coach, saw the singing of Ward Hibbert as an easy decision: “Once we were approached and told he was on the market, we expressed an interest and made an offer that I’m pleased to say he accepted.
"He brings a lot of energy, he was his team’s leading rebounder last season and his game is tailor-made for our up-tempo style.
"He strikes me as very focussed and I think his prior life in tennis has given him an ability to perform when it matters.”
Hibbert ward had this to say following his move: “I am really happy to be here right now, we have had a great few days starting back with the team.
"Enjoying my time here with the guys and all the staff, all have been welcoming.
"There are a few of us new to the team and feel like we are all synching in and gelling together really well.
"There is a great vibe and energy around the gym and I can’t wait to get out on the floor in competition with the rest of the team.”
Lions fans will be able to see Ward-Hibbert in action for the first time on the 15th of September when the lions face Lithuanian side Neptunas Klaipeda in the Champions League.