Birmingham Knights put out a Gayle-force warning

The newest BBL side based in the Midlands, the Birmingham Knights, today announced two more signings ready to line up for the 2013-14 season – homegrown brothers, Martyn and Michael Gayle.

6’3″ shooting guard, Martyn, represented England at FIBA’s U16 European Championship in 2006 before spending time in the USA. On returning to the UK, he has carved out a career with EBL Division 1 team, Derby Trailblazers and was part of their trophy winning team in 2012. EuroBasket.com nominated Martyn for a spot in the EBL Division 1 All Domestic 1st Team 2013, after coming second in scorers in last season’s campaign.

Brother Michael, a 5’ 9” point guard, brings with him BBL experience after featuring for Worcester Wolves between 2006 and 2008 before moving to Germany to play at Pro B level, however more recently turned out for the Bradford Dragons.

A former England U18 captain, Michael has a reputation as a tough player both physically and mentally, and having previously played and won under Coach Douglas as a junior, the Knights’ Head Coach has high expectations: “It’s great to be reunited with Michael as he absolutely knows what I expect from him plus his experience of playing in the BBL and Germany will be invaluable to our young squad. I have been following Martyn’s career for some time now and I tried to place him last season in the BBL. He is a great shooter and we all feel that it was time that he stepped up to show what he is capable of at this level,” said Coach Douglas.

Birmingham Knights’ first BBL fixture is away against reigning Championship winners, Leicester Riders, on September 28th, but the side have pre-season friendlies through August and September ahead of the season opener, visit www.birminghamknights.co.uk for more details.