Dorchester, Massachusetts native Derek "DC" Coleman has been added to the Storm's 2013-2014 training camp roster, pending FIBA clearance.
The 5'11", 185 lbs Point Guard was a 4-time State Champion with the legendary Charlestown High School in Boston, compiling a 107-7 record in his four year high school career, while adding two State of Massachusetts High School Player of the Year awards in 2002 and 2003.
The highly-touted Point Guard went on to become a 3-year starter at Robert Morris University in the NCAA's North East Conference (NEC). Coleman would go on to score over 1,000 points for the Colonials in his career, averaging 12.8 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 5.4 assists in 38 minutes per game in his senior season. Coleman was named to the NEC All-Rookie team in 2004, and led Robert Morris to an NEC semi-final berth in 2006.
Since 2007, "DC" has played professionally in Holland and both of Germany's Pro A & B divisions. Most recently in 2012-2013, Coleman played for the Crailsheim Merlins of Germany's Pro A Division where he averaged 11.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game.
Joe Salerno, Head Coach of the Storm, says Coleman will be a big piece to add to the Storm's roster this season.
"Derek is a high energy guy who understands what it takes to win. He is a fierce competitor and a proven leader. I saw DC play at the Hart Sports Management camp in Las Vegas this past July, there were over 200 players there and no one stood out like Derek. He is a tremendous on-ball defender, with the quickness and strength to really wreak some havoc on opposing teams' point guards this season. On the other side of the ball, he is an absolute general - he runs the show, and makes everyone around him a better player. This is a very exciting player to watch, someone who will keep the fans on the edge of their seats, and without question help us contend for an NBL title this season."
Coleman says he's looking forward to being on PEI. "I am very honored to have an opportunity to play for the Island Storm organization. I can't wait to get to the Island and meet the fans. I am extremely excited to help lead the team to a winning season. THE STORM IS COMING."
The Storm will be holding two intra-squad games during training camp in mid-October, and one home exhibition game at UPEI.
The Storm's regular season kicks off Saturday, November 2 at 7pm with a game at Charlottetown's Eastlink Centre when they host the Saint John Mill Rats.
IMAGE CREDIT: www.scout.com