Manchester Basketball have sured up their front-court by securing the addition of Duke Shelton to their 2025/26 roster for the remainder of the campaign.
The American-born forward, who holds a British passport, will be a familiar face to Super League Basketball fans having spent two years with the Newcastle Eagles and a further two as part of the Leicester Riders, bringing title-winning experience to the north-west. Last season at Riders, Shelton contributed 6.6 points and 4.6 rebounds per game, winning the Playoff Final at the O2 in May.
At 6’9”, 28-year-old Shelton is a commanding presence in the paint, and a seasoned professional having enjoyed a career spanning Europe after graduating from the University of Tampa in Florida, like fellow MCR star Max Jones.
On joining Manchester Basketball, Shelton said:
“I am very excited about joining Manchester! I’m looking forward to the great atmosphere and the great city, teammates, supporters and most of all contributing to winning!”
Manchester head coach Matthew Otten commented:
“Duke is an athletic big with a championship pedigree who works well around the rim. As a domestic player it is nice to have a player who can increase the competition in practice and help our team improve.”
Shelton is expected to be included in the squad this week as MCR take on Sheffield away this afternoon, followed by home games against Prishtina on Wednesday and Cheshire on Friday.
You can watch all the action from the SLB and keep up to date on our social media channels by clicking here.