Phil Scrubb back with River Lions

The Niagara River Lions are off to a great start in building its roster for the 2023 Canadian Elite Basketball League season.

On Thursday, Niagara announced the signing of senior men’s national team member and five-time USPORTS champion Phil Scrubb.

Niagara head coach/general manager Victor Raso was excited to have the 30-year-old Richmond, B.C., native sign on the dotted line.

“Having Phil back for his third summer with the River Lions is great for our organization and community,” he said. “Phil provides veteran leadership and playmaking that will make everyone around him better. I’m excited for the opportunity to chase a championship with Phil again.”

Last season with the River Lions, the 6-foot-3 guard averaged 11.2 points and 4.2 assists per game.

The three-time USPORTS MVP and four-time All-Canadian is playing in his hometown of sorts. He has spent the last three or four summers in Niagara and got married in the region last summer to his Alexandra Trivieri. He met her at Carleton when he was training in the summer.

“I’’m looking forward to joining the River Lions again for another summer,” Scrubb said. “It’s a great place to play and I am hoping to once again help compete for a title.”

He is presently playing for Monbus Obradoiro of the Liga ACB in Spain, where he is averaging 10.1 points and 4.2 rebounds per game.

Scrubb has played in the top leagues in Spain, Russia, Germany, Greece and France and has a well-earned a reputation of being one of the top Canadians playing abroad.

During the past 15 months, Scrubb and his brother, Tommy, were the only two national team members to suit up for Canada in all 12 FIBA World Cup Qualifier games. Their play helped Canada qualify for the World Cup happening later this year.

Season tickets, voucher packs and group tickets for River Lions games are on sale now. Visit www.riverlions.ca/tickets for more information.