Singapore 9th November 2015:

By Marcus Chhan

Leon Kwek is fast becoming a fan favourite with the Singapore Slingers.

The 183cm swingman may only be THREE games into his rookie season in the ASEAN Basketball League (ABL) but he’s already made an impression.

Kwek played a vital role as the Slingers bounced back from an opening day loss to champions Hi-Tech Bangkok City by chipping in with 9 points for the Singapore Slingers in their 86-74 road win against the Saigon Heat over a week ago.

And on Sunday the 19-year-old rookie was there again for the Slingers as they killed off a late Mono Vampire resurrection to win 72-66 in the Slingers’ first home game of the 2015-16 ABL season.

Kwek had 11 points – including two ice cold buckets down the stretch to help suck the life out of the Vampires.

“He stepped up big for us,” Slingers coach Neo Beng Siang said.

“[Leon] made two shots at the elbow and short corner. The short corner is actually his favourite shot so the players knew to get the ball to him.

“He feels very confident and I am happy about that.”

Kwek’s contribution also included 5 rebounds, an assist, and a steal. Not a bad all-around performance for a teenager appearing in his first home game as a professional in the ABL.

“It felt exciting – yet nervous. I didn’t know what to expect. I came out just to play defense and let the rest take care of itself.”

He added: “I just want to thank Coach [Neo] for putting me here. At the young age of 19, I’ve been given the opportunity to be part of such a big organisation.”

The Slingers have always been a club that emphasizes local player development and the thought of another Singaporean prospect making a name in South East Asian hoops is definitely worth getting excited about.

DELVIN GOH

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DESMOND OH

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KELVIN LIM

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NEO BENG SIANG

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DELVIN GOH

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DELVIN GOH

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DELVIN GOH

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KELVIN LIM

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