Esh Group Eagles Newcastle have announced the return of Eddie Matthew for the 2018-19 season.
The club’s youngest BBL star made his debut for the Eagles aged 16 and returns to Sport Central after a three-year absence.
“It’s such a great feeling to be back in Newcastle,” said Matthew – who rose through Morpeth’s ranks before joining the Eagles’ School of Excellence.
“Putting on that Eagles jersey is something I always had a feeling I would do again. Once a Geordie, always a Geordie. Or, as they say at the club, once an Eagle, always an Eagle.
“I decided to approach Newcastle’s coaching staff this summer after reading an article outlining the direction the club wanted to take this season.
“Their desire to find the right people to buy into the Eagles’ ethos on and off the court was something that caught my eye.
“Having spent three good years here gaining an understanding of how the club operates, I thought I’d be able to slot into place quite quickly.
“Everyone seemed to be on the same page and we agreed a deal would be good for both me and the club.
“I hope I can use some of the basketball and life experience I’ve gained whilst being away from Newcastle to benefit the team in whatever way I can. Howay the lads!”
Matthew will tip off his seventh BBL campaign against Cheshire Phoenix on September 21 following stints with Plymouth Raiders and Leeds Force.
“It’s good to have Eddie back,” said Flournoy. “He has matured physically and mentally.
“We have always been excited by his potential and it’s great that we get him back to see if we can help him fulfil that potential – particularly as a shooter.”
Matthew becomes Newcastle’s eighth signing of the summer with the full roster expected to be finalised before the club jets off to Belgium for back-to-back pre-season matches next week.