Hapoel Holon has officially welcomed experienced guard Derrick Walton Jr. to its roster for the upcoming Basketball Champions League season. The 30-year-old American brings a wealth of experience, having played in the NBA, EuroLeague, and most recently winning an NBL championship and MVP award with the Sydney Kings.
This signing is a significant move for Hapoel Holon, adding a proven leader to their backcourt. Walton Jr.’s diverse experience, from the high-pressure environment of the NBA to his championship run in Australia, gives the team a versatile and reliable player as they prepare for a competitive season in Europe.
🏀 A New Chapter for a Seasoned Player
Derrick Walton Jr. is set to make his debut in the Basketball Champions League. His impressive career includes 45 games in the NBA between 2017 and 2022, as well as stints in the EuroLeague. For the past three years, he has played in Australia’s NBL and China’s CBA, where he stood out as a top player, leading the Sydney Kings to an NBL title in the 2022-23 season.
💪 Strengthening the Squad for a Tough Season
Head coach Danny Franco expressed his excitement about the new signing, highlighting how Walton Jr. adds valuable experience to the team. “The signing reinforces the depth and professionalism of the squad ahead of many challenges,” he said. The team aims to build the strongest possible lineup, and bringing in a player like Walton Jr. is a key step towards achieving that goal.
🔄 Other Team Moves Across the BCL
Meanwhile, other teams in the league have also been making moves. Filou Oostende signed 18-year-old Daan Pieters to his first professional contract. Turkish team Mersin MSK extended the contract of 17-year-old Anil Alyanak and added 21-year-old Kuzey Livaneli. Additionally, Pelister Bitola has signed Andrej Mitrevski and veteran Austin Price as they prepare for the qualification tournament.
