Raphell Thomas-Edwards has committed his future to Bristol Flyers after agreeing a new one-year deal with the club.

The British forward, who made the step up from NBL Division One last season, has signed until the end of the 2020-21 season. 

Thomas-Edwards made 12 league appearances for the Flyers last season, averaging 8.8 points and 5.7 rebounds per game.

Speaking to the club’s official YouTube channel, Thomas-Edwards said: “I already knew that I wanted to come back for another year. I love the organisation, the fans and everything about the Bristol Flyers.

“It was my first year in the BBL last season, so I want to take what I learnt from last year and develop it through the summer. I’ve been speaking with Coach Kapoulas a lot, just trying to make sure that my basketball IQ is where it needs to be, that I’m in the right positions and shooting the right shots.

“We want to have a consistent culture this year where we’re pushing every day and continuing to make those small improvements.”

Thomas-Edwards played for the England national team at junior level, competing in Division B at both the U16 and U18 European Championships. He went on to represent Great Britain at the 2013 U20 European Championships, posting 10 points and 7.8 rebounds per game, whilst earning promotion into Division A.

During his collegiate career, Thomas Edwards spent two years at the University at Buffalo in NCAA Division One, before transferring to Gannon University in NCAA Division Two.

Thomas-Edwards was named in the 2018-19 NBL Division One Team of the Year, after averaging 23 points and 14.5 rebounds per game for the Leicester Warriors.

“Raphell had a strong first season in the BBL and it’s great to have him on board for a second year,” said Flyers Head Coach Andreas Kapoulas. 

“He has a phenomenal work ethic and drive to get better, which we value so much in our programme and he sets an example for all our players.

“He brings physicality, versatility and skill to our frontline as well as the element of continuity which is very important as we continue to build our roster for the upcoming season.”