Following the re-signing of Rahmon Fletcher, the Eagles have swooped to bring in a backcourt partner for their veteran point guard and the name and face should be familiar to BBL fans as he played for Worcester Wolves last season in his rookie professional campaign.

Cortez Edwards who was a ‘Golden Eagle’ at NCAA Division 1 Southern Conference’s University of Southern Mississippi will become a Newcastle Eagle for his second season in the pro ranks.

“I found out the Eagles were interested and that was an exciting prospect,” said the former Wolves starter. “I’m pleased to have signed.”

After earning All-Conference Second Team honours in his senior year, Edwards put in some very good performances in Wolves colours last term averaging 12.7 points, 6.9 rebounds and 6.4 assists per game. As a shooting guard at 6’2” those rebound numbers were very impressive.

It was those all-round statistics that attracted Eagles Head Coach Ian MacLeod to Edwards and also two of his performances against Newcastle when MacLeod saw him at close quarters.

In the BBL Cup Quarter-Final, Edwards was the biggest factor in Worcester’s 90-86 win over the Eagles registering 25 points, seven rebounds and eight assists in that game. A win that progressed Worcester in a competition they went on to win against Bristol Flyers with Edwards recording 11 points, six rebounds and four assists.

It also meant that Edwards was a trophy-winner in that rookie season and that should stand him in good stead signing for the BBL’s most successful franchise who have such a tremendous winning mentality.

“I think Cortez is someone who fits our style of play perfectly,” said coach MacLeod. “Athletic, exciting and excels at high tempo. A great addition who gives us an extremely dynamic back court.”

Edwards knows what he can bring to the team and his hopes for the season.

“I bring a lot of energy and playmaking on both ends of the court,” added Edwards. “My goals for the season are to grow every aspect of my game and to win a Championship.”

The former ‘Wolf’ also had some nice words to say about Worcester, as well as a message to the loyal Newcastle supporters awaiting his arrival.

He reflected, “I loved my time in Worcester and made a lifetime of memories with so many great people. Playing in the BBL was a good experience and I think it could grow as a league. I can’t wait to say hello to the Eagles fans. Let’s get ready for an exciting season.”

With Edwards, Fletcher and Lasker all signed up Newcastle are looking well set in the guard positions.

They will now turn their attention forward to other areas of their new roster as they prepare for the forthcoming season with their new sponsors GiveToLocal.