NRL Shifts the Culture of CEBL with Two Players Signing to NBA Contracts
It has been quite the year for the Niagara RIver Lions, finishing short in the CEBL Championship game. After a successful season of player acqusitions, The NRL have made history for the CEBL. Last week, The 2021 Championship Milwaukee Bucks announced the signing of Javin DeLaurier to a 10-day contract. DeLaurier appeared in 12 games with the Wisconsin Herd (G-Leauge affiliate) this season with the stat line of 7.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 17.0 minutes. DeLaurier signed his G-League contract following his inaugural season with the River Lions.
‘‘When we started recruiting Javin, all I could see was his NBA potential. His motor and communication on the defensive end really stood out. I knew our developmental culture in Niagara would benefit him if we could sign him,I looked at Javin as a culture shifter.” - Antwi Atuahene (Co-GM, Head of Basketball Operations)
DeLaurier's defensive presence, rebounding ability, and tenacious energy led the NRL to their first championship game in Franchise history. DeLaurier averaged 14.8 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 26.4 minutes with the River Lions and received All-CEBL First team honours. DeLaurier becomes the first CEBL player to sign an NBA contract. The NRL front office spoke highly on DeLaurier's NBA potential and ceiling in his pro career.
“I’m tremendously happy for Javin and his family. I’m proud he trusted the process and bet on himself. Javin is a true definition of hard work, loyalty and resilience.”
Making History
The CEBL has carved a unique path as a professional basketball league, with 75% of their rosters being Canadian players. Currently, ten CEBL players are on NBA G-Leauge rosters. With four recent players signing NBA contracts in three days. Monday morning sources told ESPN Adrian Woj the Memphis Grizzlies signed Xavier Sneed to a 10-day contract. Sneed becomes the second NRL player to sign an NBA contract, making the NRL the first team in the CEBL with two players to sign NBA contracts.
“We are extremely proud of Xavier for accomplishing his childhood dream of signing an NBA contract,We are thankful to his entire family, and his agent Gary Durrant for trusting in the Niagara River Lions organization to help develop his game. - Antwi Atuahene ( Co-GM, Head of Basketball Operations
In his campaign with the NRL, Sneed averaged 17.8 points (led team in scoring), 4.0 rebounds, 1.9 steals in 30 minutes of play. This season Sneed suited up for the Charlotte Hornets NBA G League affiliate Greensboro Swarm, averaging 10.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.9 steals and 26.3 minutes. Sneed will join former teammate Javin DeLaurier on the NBA stage, who recently signed with the Milwaukee Bucks. Sports agent Gary Durant adds Sneed and DeLaurier to his long list of clients signing to the NBA. The NRL organization has changed the culture of the CEBL for many years to come, creating a progression environment for its players. Upon 2021-2022 season, the NRL is on the quest to capture their first CEBL title after a runner-up finish. The hunt will continue!