Mensah-Bonsu enjoyed a successful college career in the US

After missing out in the 2006 NBA draft, the 22-year-old joined the Mavericks summer league squad.

The 6ft 9in forward averaged over eight points and five rebounds during two sessions with the club.

"I've been working for this since I've been playing basketball and it's a dream come true," he said.

Learn tricks with the Harlem Globetrotters

Mensah-Bonsu averaged 12.6 points and 6.7 rebounds as a senior at George Washington University and also earned First Team Atlantic-10 honours in 2005-06.

He also led the team in field goal percentage and blocked shots.

"We are really excited about Pops joining the Mavericks," said the club's President of Basketball Operations Donn Nelson.

"His energy and attitude were the determining factors in this decision. He will bring added athleticism to our front line."

Teenager Joel Freeland from Hampshire was selected by the Portland Trail Blazers in the last pick of the first round of the draft in June.

Londoners Ben Gordon and Luol Deng are both entering their third NBA seasons with the Chicago Bulls.