Leicester Riders have brought in reinforcements at the point guard position ahead of Sunday’s BBL Cup Final, this morning announcing the acquisition of American floor general Carrington Love.
The 29-year-old averaged 16.6 points and 5.8 assists last
season in the German division two, playing for Eisbären Bremerhaven. He shot
47.4% from the field and 36.1% from three, finishing the year with a 16-13
record.
Love is a Green Bay graduate, having spent four years with
the Phoenix between 2012 and 2016. He showed improvement every year, scoring a
team-high 17.3 points per game as a senior. In his senior year, he ranked third
in NCAA in steals with 2.57 per game, setting a programme record with 95 steals
in a season.
Since then, Love has taken his talents to Germany, the
Netherlands and Belgium before landing in Leicester. He also has experience on
the European stage, putting up 10 points per game in the Europe Cup for Donar
Groningen in 2019. Love’s ties to Leicester makes him a seamless fit to the
roster.
“I’m excited to join the Riders! I’ve only heard great
things about the city, the coach, the players and the club!” commented Love.
“Knowing Jubril and Darien prior to my arrival has already
made me comfortable with the team, and it’s a major plus having former Rider
Justin Hedley and my godson Will nearby!
“I’m just excited to get on the floor with the guys and try
to win as many games as possible!”
The Milwaukee native is a confident three-point shooter,
able to knock down deep shots off the dribble, and with a defender in his face.
He can take defenders off the dribble to attack the hoop, where he finds open
teammates effectively or finish himself.
“We’re excited to get a player like Carrington at this stage
of the season,” said head coach Rob Paternostro.
“He is a multi-year European professional, who has played
very well throughout his career.
“Carrington is a player who can play both guard positions,
and has shown the ability to score and play-make from many different spots on
the floor.”
Love has signed for the remainder of the season. Riders can confirm we have been granted special dispensation from the league, following the injury to Devonte Bandoo, to enable Love to suit up for Sunday’s BBL Cup Final.
