The Manchester Magic have added 6ft 6in American Forward Joshua Davenport to their roster for the NBL Division One Men 2018-19 Season.

The 24 year-old Winthrop University graduate, Davenport, joins the Magic from American Basketball Association side Georgia Gwizzlies. During his time at Winthrop, he averaged (per 40 minutes), 11.2 points per game, 7.7 rebounds per game, 3.1 assists per game and 1.8 steals per game. He once had a run of 11 consecutive games with at least one steal. For Georgia Gwizzlies he averaged 25 points per game, 8 rebounds per game and 8 assists per game.

Davenport is excited to be joining the Magic, he commented, “I’m very excited to begin playing for the Manchester Magic. I’ve done my research and it is one of the best places to come to in England.

“I’m extremely happy to be able to play in front of the people in Manchester, and to also try to bring a championship back the Magic.

“I cannot wait to get started with these guys and get the ball rolling!”

Magic Head Coach Aurimas Verbukas was impressed with the qualities Joshua will bring, saying, “Joshua is the type of player we were looking for. He can play and guard multiple positions which fit with how we will try to play next season.

“We are building a defensive minded team. Josh is a great on and off ball defender, but also an offensive threat.

“I have been talking with him for the last couple of months and I am convinced that his character will fit well with our team and everyone in Manchester will love him.

“His coaches speak highly of him, so I am looking forward to seeing him join our team.”

Brian Kloman, an assistant from Winthrop commented, “Josh is an extremely impressive player and person. He plays extremely hard and always puts the team first.

“He is a leader and someone that will pour into the great Manchester community. He was a very vital part of our NCAA tournament team and multiple championships at Winthrop University.

“We are extremely excited he is coming to such a great organization as the Manchester Magic.”

Davenport will be working in our community programme, visiting schools and inspiring children across Manchester to get involved with basketball.

“He’s the type of player our organisation needs.” said club chief executive Phil Gordos, “He will excite fans and be an asset on and off the floor. I’m delighted he is coming to Manchester.”