Raiders are rocked by the sudden departure of two key players
PLYMOUTH Raiders have announced the departure of two players that have been integral to their success this season.
Centre Prince Ibeh and shooting guard Denzel Ubiaro have both had their contracts with the club terminated by mutual consent.
Ibeh, 26, has returned to the United States of America with his wife and baby son, Artist, in response to the news of a tragic family bereavement, while 24-year-old Ubiaro has parted company with the Raiders in order to take part in an upcoming movie, which is currently in production.
Speaking before his departure,
Ibeh said: “I would like to thank everyone within the Plymouth Raiders organisation for their support over this season and especially now, in what is an exceedingly difficult time for our family.
“The support we have received has been overwhelming. I would also like to thank all the Plymouth Raiders supporters who, whilst not being able to attend the games, have still shown true support throughout this season and have undoubtedly been a huge part in the success Plymouth Raiders are seeing this season.”
Ubiaro has been with the Raiders for the past four seasons and has shown significant improvement year on year after initially finding his way into the programme through an open trial.
“Losing players at this stage of the season is always tough and makes what we are trying to achieve here that bit harder but first and most importantly my thoughts are with Prince and his family at this time,” Raiders head coach Paul James said.
“While we know the enormous contribution Prince has made to the Plymouth Raiders this season in helping the team to achieve a place in the BBL Trophy Final and a high placing in the BBL Championship table as he departs, it all seems a little insignificant when it comes to family matters and he was one of the Raiders family.
“I thank Prince for his invaluable contribution whilst with us and wish him and his family well during this difficult time.”
James added: “Denzel has been a stable part of this team since my arrival and his efforts haven’t gone unnoticed this season as we’ve seen him grow once again from the beginning of the season to now. Everybody at the club wishes him well in the next chapter of his basketball career.”