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The London Lions have officially announced the signing of former NBA centre Kosta Koufos.
The 7' 0" American/Greek dual national had an 11-year NBA career with five different franchises as well as helping Greece to a EuroBasket bronze medal in 2009.
When the Ohio-born big man makes his BBL debut he will become the player with the most NBA appearances to turn out in Britains top league having played 686 regular season games along with 37 appearances in the play-offs.
After a illustrious career at GlennOak High School, Koufos spent a single season with Ohio State University where he helped the Buccaneers win the prestigious National Invitation Tournament, finishing with 22 points, nine rebounds and three block in the title game. Unsurprisingly Koufos was named in the Big Ten All-Rookie Team for the 2007/8 season.
Koufos was selected by Utah Jazz with the 23rd overall pick in the 2008 NBA draft and his two seasons in Salt Lake City saw him play 84 games, averaging 3.3 points and 2.2 rebounds.
Head coach Ryan Schmidt spoke on the signing saying:
We're extremely excited about the addition of Kosta to our organisation. Signing someone of his caliber with the experience he brings is invaluable and adds depth to our front-court alongside Ovie and Josh.
Coach Schmidt went on the add:
Combination of size, physicality and skill are what really stand out when you watch his film. I think he'll provide us with a low post presence as well as an anchor defensively with his ability to guard in pick and roll as well as rebound. Aside from his on court talent, his leadership qualities will impact our team from day one.
After a part of a season with Minnesota Timberwolves he joined Denver Nuggets and the 2012/13 season saw him start 81 regular games for the Nuggets, averaging 6.9and 5.2 rebounds, leading his side to the play-offs. Two seasons with Memphis Grizzlies followed where he played 161 regular season games.
A four-season spell at Sacramento saw more than 250 appearances for the Kings before EuroLeague seasons with CSKA Moscow and Olympiacos were following by an NBA G League campaign with Ignite.
Everyone at The London Lions would like to welcome Kosta to the Copper Box and wish him the best for his career in black and white.
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