Manchester Magic are delighted to announce that hot prospects Kaiyem Cleary and Michael Anumba will be part of senior squad for the 2016/17 campaign.

The teenagers, who got a taste of first-team action last season, are seen as key figures for coach Paul Middleton. 

“I’m really happy to say that two of our most talented junior players will be given the opportunity to make a big impact on this year’s senior campaign,” said Middleton. 

Influential in Magic’s league and cup success at Under 16 level last season, Michael played a substantial number of minutes for the all-conquering seniors as they won all four trophies they competed for. 

“Everybody is aware of his talent and potential, but it is his ability to handle playing in pressure situations against grown men that amazes me,” added Middleton.

“He has worked every day this summer to improve both his skills and his physical strength and it is starting to pay off already in pre-season. 

“He will be given the chance to run the team as point guard along with ex-junior Kayin Darbey and I really feel that he will flourish in this role as the season progresses. 

“Michael will be starting at our academy at Loreto College in a couple of weeks and he will certainly benefit from the extra practices and strength and conditioning sessions.” 

Kaiyem, who is going into his second year at Loreto, has also hugely impressed, both with Magic and England. 

“He played a minor role last season for the senior men, but he has been working out all summer and is desperate to make an impact this year,” said Middleton.

“Kaiyem is an explosive shooting guard who is a threat from long range as well as demonstrating an ability to create off the dribble. His style of play will really suit what we will try to do this year. 

“He has shown this summer that his defensive game has improved hugely, which is a very encouraging sign for his future. He deserves the opportunity to show what he can do.” 

Magic have already confirmed that guard Jack Minister, 6ft 10in centre Lee Goldsbrough and point guard Kayin Darbey will be part of the squad for 2016/17. 

Magic begin their pre-season campaign with a home game against a USA Select team on Monday, 5 September (1930 BST). 

Tickets cost £3 for Adults and £1 for Children. An Adult and up to three Children can get a family ticket for £5. A family ticket for two Adults and up to three Children is just £7.50. 

Any Magic or Mystics National League player can watch the game for free.

Three key players from the Manchester Magic’s stunning 2015/16 season will be back at the club for the forthcoming campaign.

Guard Jack Minister, 6ft 10in centre Lee Goldsbrough and point guard Kayin Darbey have all committed to coach Paul Middleton’s squad.

“It’s really pleasing that we will once again see the talented British core of the team return for another year,” said Middleton.

“Kayin was our starting point guard last year and the experience he gained will prove invaluable this year as he will be our most senior player in that position.

“I feel that he was our most improved player and played a big role in our success last year.

“Jack has been one of the most underrated players in our league for the last three years and to have him back again at a time when we will have a very youthful and inexperienced team will be vital.

“Lee is without doubt the best big man in the league as he can score both inside and out whilst being our most effective defender every single game.

“It is a big shot in the arm to have these three players re-sign for this season, especially as they have all come through our junior programme.”

Some familiar players won’t be returning for the 2016/17 season.

The foreign contingent of Ellis Cooper, Ryan Lohfink, Franc Garcia Garrido and Alvaro Alarcon-Lizaur have all moved on or retired.

Stay in touch with the Magic on social media for more squad announcements in the coming days.

Magic captain Ryan Lohfink has announced his retirement from the game, bowing out in style after winning the quadruple this past season.

The 6ft 7in centre is the only player to achieve the feat twice, having done so with Reading Rockets in the 2008/09 season.

Ryan, 33, has won 14 National Titles in his eight years in England, including six with the Magic since joining them from the Rockets in 2013.

The American is one of the most decorated players in the second tier of the National League.

Ryan leaves sizeable boots to fill both on and off the court, leaving his role as the Club’s Business Manager as well as departing from the game.

The Club would like to thank Ryan for everything he has done and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

“Ryan came to our club from Reading three years ago and it proved to be a great move for us,” said Club Chief Executive Joe Forber.

“Firstly, his contribution on the floor has been much more significant than it first appears. His stats may not be startling but his leadership qualities and his development of our younger players has been outstanding.

“As a volunteer, he has been immensely helpful to the senior team off the floor. So good that, in the last year, we have been able to employ him in the office to do all the technical stuff which nobody else can do.

“He returns to the States at the end of August and we wish him all the best for his future.”