The Ottawa BlackJacks have made quick use of the Canadian Elite Basketball League’s new non-American import rule, signing six-foot-seven forward, Deng Adel.
Adel was born in Khartoum, South Sudan before moving to Australia to escape civil war in 2004. He has plenty of previous experience in the professional basketball landscape, including 19 games with the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers and time with various NBA G League teams, including Raptors 905.
BlackJacks’ head coach Charles Dubé-Brais spent time with Raptors 905 while Adel was on the team as well, so there is some familiarity there. He should be an impact player on the BlackJacks immediately but is currently playing the remainder of the NBA G League with the Maine Celtics, the affiliate of the Boston Celtics.
“I’m really excited about this opportunity to come back and play in Canada again,” said Adel. “I’ve heard nothing but good things about the CEBL. I’m looking forward to joining the BlackJacks organization and also reconnecting with coach Charles again while building a championship culture.”
Related: CEBL Adds Non-American Import Roster Spot
“We’re happy to sign Deng Adel as our first non-American import,” said BlackJacks general manager, Jevohn Shepherd. “Deng is an all-around player who can score and facilitate very well. He has great character and embodies the BlackJacks core values. He has played in some of the best leagues in the world, including in the NBA, and will bring his international experience to our team. I’m looking forward to welcoming him here in the nation’s capital.”
Adel becomes the BlackJacks’ second signing for the 2022 season after they signed Chad Posthumus last week. They can now shift their focus to signing the remainder of their roster and bringing in the best Canadian content they can find. With a player under contract that has proven he can play at a high level, averaging 5.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 17.9 minutes in 18 games with the Maine Celtics, Shepherd can now sign the rest of his roster knowing that he has a good player already in his back pocket.
Subscribe to 13th Man Sports to get email notifications when we post!
One thought on “BlackJacks Sign Non-American Import, Deng Adel”