Scorchers sign Hawthorne

Surrey Scorchers are delighted to welcome American forward James Hawthorne for the 2019-20 BBL season.

The 22-year-old from Missouri, who stands at 6’7″, graduated from Middle Tennessee State University earlier this year, having led the 2019 Blue Raiders side in blocks, and averaged seven points and 5.3 rebounds per game.

Previously, Hawthorne enjoyed two years with the Southwest Mississippi Bears – where in 2016 he won the MACJC State Championship and was named a JUCO Showcase All-Star – and took the MVP award in his senior year at Prentiss High School.

Scorchers Coach, Creon Raftopoulos, said: “What impressed us most about James was his willingness to do all the intangibles that don’t show up on the stats sheet. He also has the ability to defend and play multiple positions. 

“We expect James to lead us in rebounding and on the defensive end of the court, but will contribute on the offensive end with his energy and ability to score in transition.”

“I’m thankful for the opportunity to be on the team,” admitted Hawthorne. “Especially coming from where I come from – a small country town that even people in America don’t know! I’m one of the only males out of the town that has even played college basketball, let alone to play professionally.

“Now I can’t wait to meet everybody at the Scorchers. I plan on having a great season and winning a lot of games!”