Virgin Islands professional basketball player Leslee J. Smith will play his first game with this new team, Plymouth Raiders, in the British Basketball League (BBL) on Friday, January 3, 2020. Photo: Twitter

A Twitter post by Plymouth Raiders on December 31, 2019 welcoming Leslee J. Smith to the team. Photo: Twitter

Leslee J. Smith, left, playing for Momentum in the 2019 Hon Julian Fraser Save the Seed National Basketball League. Photo: VINO

Plymouth Raiders will come up against Smith’s former team, the Sheffield Sharks, at the Plymouth Pavilions.

The power forward Smith played for the Sharks at the start of the 2018-19 season after two successful seasons with Bristol Flyers where he averaged 11.5 points per game and 7.5 rebounds.

In an article published by Plymouth Raiders on December 31, 2019, Smith said he was excited to be joining with the Raiders and noted that Plymouth Raiders have a “really awesome” fan base.

“As someone who has competed against the Raiders over the years, I see the support they have here in Plymouth. They also have some talented players well recognised around the league, and a good coaching staff.

“I’m excited to add to what they have and help with the success of the club.”

 Experienced player

Raiders’ Head Coach, Paul James, according to the article, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Leslee Smith to the Raiders family, he is a player with good BBL experience having played for Bristol and Sheffield. 

“Leslee is a multi-skilled player who plays hard at both ends of the floor and will give us scoring, but more importantly, some well needed defensive and rebounding presence.”

Meanwhile, persons in the Virgin Islands can view Smith in action this Friday by clicking on the link provided:  https://youtu.be/s42mWDbIv0k