Manchester Magic point guard Stefan Gill has become BBL side Milton Keynes Lions' first signing of pre-season.

The 26-year-old was voted Division One's most valuable player during the last campaign for his hometown club in the EBL.

Lions head coach Mike New told the club website: "We knew about him and his athletic ability but this past season in Manchester he has really blossomed.

"He came to trials, dominated and is rewarded with a contract."

He added: "Hats off to him for not settling for playing at home and success at the EBL level. He wants to challenge himself against the best this country has to offer and we are confident he will do well."

It is not surprising that Mike's first signing is a young English player - we pride ourselves on bringing young players to the fore MK Lions chief executive Vince Macaulay

Gill averaged 23 points and just under five assists per game last season, statistics that earned him his first England cap on Friday, a 90-80 victory over an Irish all-star team.

MK chief executive Vince Macaulay added: "It is not surprising that Mike's first signing is a young English player; we pride ourselves on bringing young players to the fore.

"What Mike has done with the MK Lions academy has been great and we intend to bring more young players to the club."

The Lions are still without a home for the upcoming season which is set to begin in September. The club used to play at Middleton Hall but the shopping centre is unavailable while changes are made to the building.

They will eventually move into the proposed Arena:MK, but the venue is not ready.

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