WORCESTER Wolves have signed their first player for the forthcoming campaign as their summer rebuilding process continues.
The club announced yesterday that 6ft 7in Spanish forward Javier Mugica is to join the club, making him the the first player to sign for the Wolves after all but one player was released.
Mugica, 32, has played most of his basketball in Spain’s highly-rated LEB Gold division, achieving impressive game statistics in what is one of Europe’s most competitive leagues.
Head coach Paul James said: “I’m delighted to have signed Javi for the coming season. He is a player that can play in multiple positions and has a high basketball IQ.
“His experience of playing at a high level in Spain is going to be great for the team and I’m sure he is going to be exciting for us.”
The Spaniard has signed from Forca Lleida after they made the play-offs in the LEB Gold division, where he averaged ten points, eight rebounds and three assists a game, securing a series of MVP game performances.
“I am excited to be playing for Worcester this season. I have learnt a great deal about the club from basketball people in my country and all the information has been very positive,” Mugica said.
“I’m looking forward to meeting my new team-mates and getting started,” he added.
Managing director Mick Donovan said the University of Worcester’s partnership with the University of Leon, in Spain, played a big part in helping to secure Mugica’s signing.
“We first heard about Javi during one of our trips to Leon and he has flown over twice to the UK to meet with the coach, see the facilities and meet the people within the club which speaks volumes about his commitment,” Donovan said.
Dr Alejandro Vaquera, Director of Sport at the University of Leon, said: “As a player, he can play on both sides of the court and is a good fast break player and a threat from the three-point line.
“He can also intimidate defence, being able to increase the defensive intensity of the team. I worked with him in the past and he is a hard worker who loves to practise every day in the gym. He will make an impact in the BBL.”
Wolves anticipate announcing more signings in the coming weeks.