Ojo signs for Raiders
The UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders have announced their second signing of the summer. Michael Ojo, a 6’5″ guard/forward will join the team in September for pre season training having graduated from Lehigh University in NCAA Division 1. Crucially for the Raiders, Ojo, an American by birth has secured his British nationality, leaving the Raiders 2 more permit spots still to fill.
Lehigh University plays in the Patriot League, and there, Ojo averaged 11 points and 4 rebounds a game in 2010/11, while averaging 40% from the 3 point line and 77.5% from the free throw line. Last year, he was one of the team’s co-captains and established himself a reputation for being a tough defensive player, and one of the best shooters in the Patriot League.
“I’m pleased to have signed Michael,” said Raiders Head Coach, Gavin Love. “He will give us athleticism, someone who can shoot the ball very well, and someone who is able to penetrate and create off of the dribble. It’s always tough for a first year player to make a big impact in the BBL, but his athleticism will certainly help him, and he’ll give us that outside scoring threat that we so badly need to allow us to spread the floor. We faced some stiff competition from a team in the Cyprus first division to get Michael, but now he is signed, I’m looking forward to him getting here.”
Ojo is not only highly regarded on the court, but also off of it. His hard work in the classroom earned him a place on the Dean’s List and Faculty Athletics Council Honor Roll this past year, helping to demonstrate his maturity and leadership skills.
Lehigh University’s Head Coach, Brett Reed, is confident that Ojo can make the jump from University to professional athlete with little fuss. “Michael has done a terrific job for us at Lehigh. He was an offensive spark for our championship title run in 2010 and was very instrumental to our team’s overall success during his career. This past year, he served as a vocal captain for our team while also demonstrating an excellent shooting touch and strong defensive ability. I am very pleased he has the opportunity to pursue his professional aspirations and have confidence in his ability to help the Plymouth Raiders as he has helped our program.”
Ojo will arrive in Plymouth with his new teammates over the first weekend in September, ready for pre season training to start on Monday 5th.
The Raiders would like to remind fans that they have just days left to purchase Season Tickets at this summer’s reduced prices. On August 1st, the price will revert to the regular prices. To purchase season tickets, please call the Plymouth Pavilions Box Office on 0845 146 1460 or call into the Box Office in person.
