Charnwood Academy graduate Greg Wild has signed his first professional contract with Leicester Riders.
Wild, who featured in both the BBL roster for Leicester and NBL roster for Loughborough last term, has committed his future to the programme signing a four-year contract.
“It’s a surreal feeling signing my first professional contract with such a decorated club with a lot of history and great success,” commented Greg.
“I am grateful for the opportunities that have led me to this point in my playing career and I’m ready to get to work with the guys ahead of next year. I can’t wait to get back out there and show everyone what I’m capable of, I want to keep getting better everyday.
“I am blessed for the opportunity to study at Loughborough University through Loughborough College and thankful for the partnership between Riders and Loughborough to allow me to get my degree alongside playing basketball at a high level.”
Whilst on the Riders roster, Greg will study for a degree and be eligible to represent Loughborough in both the NBL and BUCS competitions.
“It’s fantastic for us to secure the services of such a talent like Greg,” added Riders Managing Director Russell Levenston.
“It’s pretty special for us to be able to offer a player from our academy programme a first professional contract. It’s a trend we are seeing more and more, and it shows any young basketball players that they don’t necessarily need to head to a US college to succeed.
“We are in a position to be able to offer a long-term deal to Greg and we are delighted to have him on board. Not only are we impressed with his talents but his attitude and application throughout our programme has been outstanding.”