Singapore 29th December 2017
The Singapore Slingers today announced that they have released World Import Ryan Wright and signed two time ABL MVP Chris Charles as Wright’s replacement.
With the Slingers record sitting at 3 wins & 4 losses from their first 7 games and the unavailability of forward Delvin Goh for the last two crucial away games before the Christmas break the Slingers decided to make a change at the centre position.
Chris Charles who was released by the Saigon Heat just prior to the start of the 2017-18 ABL season is the player the Slingers believe will help solidify an already league leading defense and help get the Slingers back to the finals this season.
It was not an easy decision for the club to release import Ryan Wright. Wright was averaging 21pts & 13rebs per game, but his struggles at the free throw line coupled with the team’s local player availability issues, a lack of height and the Slingers current (3-4) record made the change necessary.
“Ryan is an outstanding young man who worked hard on and off the court. It has been a real pleasure having Ryan play for the club, even if only for a short period”. said Singapore Slingers General Manager Michael Johnson.
The Slingers have struggled the past few seasons at containing the opposition’s perimeter players, giving up easy drives to the basket and too many open 3pt shots. This is where the 216cm Charles should have an immediately impact.
It is hoped that a fully fit Charles will be the rim protector the team has lacked this season.
Chris Charles
216cm
University: Villanova
ABL Teams: Thailand Slammers, Hi-Tech Bangkok City, Saigon Heat
ABL Champion – (2014)
2 x ABL MVP – (2013 & 2014)
2 x ABL Best Defensive Player of the Year (2013 & 2014)
The Slingers will be back in action next Sunday when they face Alab Pilipinas at the OCBC Arena in Singapore on Sunday 7th January, the Slingers will then fly to Manila for the return match on 10th January.
SINGAPORE SLINGERS NEXT GAME
Singapore Slingers vs Alab Pilipinas
Sunday 7th January 2018
OCBC Arena
4:00pm
