Fletcher says a fond farewell to the Eagles
NEWCASTLE chief Paul Blake has praised the key contribution of Rahmon Fletcher after the popular guard parted company with the Eagles for the second time.
Manchester Giants made a move for the two-time league MVP earlier this week after it became clear Marc Steutel’s summer rebuild would not include the Kansas City native.
Fletcher’s departure opens the door for a complete backcourt overhaul with Newcastle headed in a new direction following last season’s disappointing campaign.
Blake said: “We want to thank Rahmon for his service and support during seven seasons with the club
“He has made a huge contribution to the Eagles, the league and the community since we brought him to the BBL for the first time in 2014.”
Fletcher first left Tyneside in 2017 for a season with Košice in Slovakia following two successful years under Fabulous Flournoy.
The then 29-year-old returned to the North East after just a year in Europe and played a key part in bringing home three trophies in two seasons under Ian MacLeod.
Fletcher set a new all-time league record for average assists last season and new Manchester owner Vince Macaulay has finally got his man after regularly admitting an interest in the 5ft 10in playmaker during his time at London.
The former Lions playcaller said: “Adding such quality, experience and leadership to our club is amazing. Rahmon’s achievements speak for themselves, consistently leading the league in assists.
“He was leading scorer just a season ago but the main thing is he’s a winner and he will love what we’re building here in Manchester.”
Fan favourite Fletcher will be guaranteed a warm welcome when he returns to the Vertu Motors Arena as a Giant on September 30.
He said: “Newcastle is a place I will always hold close to me and I will always be grateful for what we achieved there.
“The Eagles allowed me to grow not only on the court but also off it.
“I have nothing but the utmost respect for Paul and Sam Blake as well as everyone who is part of the club there.
“Newcastle has some of the best fans I have ever experienced in my basketball career.”
Although Fletcher has become synonymous with the Eagles’ success during the last eight years, he was one of the club’s highest earners.
The American’s departure undoubtedly gives Newcastle greater flexibility in the transfer market.
Steutel is in advanced talks with a number of new players as he bids to stamp his mark on a team in transition.
Newcastle’s new head coach is building a roster designed to put the Eagles back on the front foot and Blake added: “Our fans should be very excited.
“We have an opportunity to reset and rebuild and have set about putting this basketball club back where it belongs.”