NEWS RELEASE
NIAGARA RIVER LIONS
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ST. CATHARINES – The Niagara River Lions announced today the signing of Khalil Amhad presented by Deep Relief. The 6’4 American shooting guard from Corona, California will join the team for the 2022 Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) season after playing overseas for Horsens IC of the Basketligaen in Denmark.
In 18 games with Horsens IC, the 25-year-old is averaging an impressive 20.78 points, 4.48 assists and 5.28 rebounds per game in his second season playing professionally.
“Khalil is an explosive, dynamic guard with a great feel for the game,” said River Lions Co-General Manager and Head of Basketball Operations, Antwi Atuahene. “He’s an elite playmaker and a high level three level scorer. We are excited to get Khalil in a River Lions uniform this summer.”
Ahmad spent four years at Cal State Fullerton, where he became one of the most prolific scorers in school history, tallying 1768 points in 117 games, the third-highest total in program history. He was named the 2015 Big West Freshman of the Year and was one of just five athletes in school history to earn All-Conference honours three or more times.
Ahmad had five 30-point games and 27 20-point games as a Titan, while also holding the school record for most points as a freshman with 429. Early in his senior season, Ahmad scored a career high-40 points, tied for the third-highest single game total in program history.
After a remarkable collegiate career, Ahmad competed in the 2019 Drew Summer League in Los Angeles, an invite-only league that recruits elite NBA and overseas talent during the off-season. Ahmad had no problem fitting in, as he put up a 20-point game playing alongside the likes of Nick Young, DeMar DeRozan and Stanley Johnson.
Following an impressive showing in the Drew League, Ahmad signed his first professional contract with Keflavik Basketball Club in the Domino’s Deildin league in Iceland where he averaged 19 points, 4.6 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals per game.
Khalil becomes the first American player signed for the upcoming season, and sixth overall signing after Tidjan Keita, Daniel Waldin-Mullings, Jaylen-Babb Harrison, Jake Babic and Alonzo Walker.
"I am so grateful for this opportunity. I am excited and looking forward to getting to work with a great group of guys, and of course win a championship." said Khalil.
The Niagara River Lions are one of the original six teams of the CEBL. Playing out of Meridian Centre in downtown St. Catharines, the River Lions represent the twelve municipalities of the Niagara Region while living up to the River Lions moniker of pride and strength of community. Season tickets and voucher packs for the 2022 season are on sale now. Visit www.riverlions.ca/tickets for more information.
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