17/10/08 Tigers pounce for BBL duoEverton Tigers have announced today (FRI) they have secured the signings of experienced BBL duo Olu Babalola and Lekan Popoola. The Tigers, currently atop the British Basketball League, continued their team-building with the capture of former Newcastle Eagles star Babalola and ex-London Capital player Lekan Popoola. Babalola, regarded as one of the top players in the league, became a free agent at the end of last season. A key part of the Eagles' championship winning squad last year, London-born Babalola said he was delighted to join the Tigers. He said: "I heard of the buzz that was taking place at the Tigers, and knowing Coach Garbelotto was there, together with my old friend Richard Midgely, it was an easy decision to make. I was really impressed with the Tigers last season and I hope I can continue having the same success I had with the Eagles." Head Coach Tony Garbelotto said he was excited about working with Babalola and Popoola, who both have strong track records in the league. He said: "Olu, as with Tony Dorsey our signing from play-off champions Guildford, has a proven pedigree and has played at the top level in UK basketball for a number of years. I am really excited because I have known Olu since he was 14 years old. "He is a very exciting player but he still has an incredible upside to develop his game. With hard work and dedication he will improve and become an even better player within our squad." Lekan Popoola, who played against the Tigers for London Capital last week, is also an experienced BBL veteran with stints at Guildford, Birmingham as well. Garbelotto added: "Lekan is a key signing for us. He is an outstanding on the ball defender and a very athletic guard who can score and set up people at the same time. He will be invaluable as a back up to Richard Midgley and as someone who can give our team a different look at key times in the game." Tigers fans will have their first chance to see the new arrivals tonight (FRI) at the home clash against Plymouth Raiders. Meanwhile it was announced that John Simpson, an original member of the Tigers squad, has left the club for personal reasons. Gary Townsend, Chairman of the club, paid tribute to Simpson's involvement in the Tigers' team. He said: "John was a really well liked squad player, but with a young family and other commitments felt he could no longer play his part with us. He goes with my very good wishes and thanks for his contribution"
02/05/08 Everton sign coach Garbelotto (external link)
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