‘I’m so blessed’

Former basketball Axeman Nissen signs with CB Clavijo Logrono

Former basketball Axeman Erik Nissen will extend his playing career following his recent graduation from Acadia University.

Slan Sports Management says Nissen signed a one-year contract, with a second year option, with CB Clavijo Logrono in the Spanish LEB Silver League for the 2018-2019 season.

“I’m so blessed and thankful to have been coached by such high-level coaches throughout my basketball career by getting me prepared for something that only a few New Brunswick basketball players have been able to achieve,” said Nissen following the announcement.

From Quispamsis, N.B., Nissen began his collegiate career at the University of Maine (NCAA), but after two seasons, transferred to Acadia in 2015 and played his remaining three seasons with the Axemen.

During his time at Acadia, Nissen was a two-time AUS All-star and was named the 2017-18 AUS Defensive Player of the Year with a conference leading 59 blocks and 208 rebounds.

Nissen averaged 18.3 points per game this past season, while leading the AUS in both rebounding and blocks, averaging 10.4 rebounds and 3.0 blocks per game. He ranked second nationally in blocks per game and third in rebounds per game.

Last summer, Nissen was selected to Team Canada for the 2017 FISU Games and this past spring was chosen to represent Canada at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia.

Noted in the Slan Sports release, Nissen is eager to begin his professional career.

“I couldn’t be more excited to start my pro career with Clavijo,” said Nissen. “I’m looking forward to working with world class talent and coaching, while getting to know Logroño.”

Axemen head coach Kevin Duffie was thrilled to hear the news about Nissen’s choice to go to Europe.

“I am very happy for Erik. He has a skill set that transfers well to the professional game in Europe. He can change the pace on both ends of the floor and plays with energy that is infectious to his teammates,” said Duffie.

Nissen reports to the Clavijo Logrono Basketball Club in late August.

ACADIA ATHLETICS PHOTO Erik Nissen, a former Acadia Axeman for the basketball team, will be playing the sport professionally in Europe, starting later this summer.