Giant forward signs for Athlone as national league looms

Athlone Basketball Club has announced another new pre-season signing ahead of its return to National League action in early October.

London-born 6ft 6” combo forward James Aboaba has agreed to sign for the club, after having previously in Ireland for Waterford Vikings in the 2024/25 season. Aboaba, who graduated from Tabor College in Kansas, USA, has also played with Carrick Cruisers (Monaghan).

The club said it is 'thrilled to have James join the team and look forward to seeing him on the court in Athlone very soon'.

Aboaba's signing follows on from the recent acquisition of

American 6ft 4” combo guard Rob Littlejohn, who joined from KK Varda in Bosnia’s A1 Liga, where he was named league MVP and best scorer.

David Keogh's Athlone squad is currently preparing for a first outing at National League level for 40 years.

Athlone Basketball Club's league return will see the midland outfit compete in a new eight-team Men’s Division Two that also includes Ballina Braves, Cavan Eagles, Dublin Raiders, Fr Mathews, Ongar Chasers, Team Northwest and Trinity BC.

The Men’s Division Two will run in a straight league format and the team who finishes top will be promoted to the Domino’s Men’s Division One. The National League season is scheduled to begin on the weekend of October 2-4.