Shooting guard Cleveland Thomas Jr is in the country to seal his return to with Rwanda Energy Group (REG) ahead of the 2023 Basketball Africa League (BAL) which tips off on March 11 in Dakar, Senegal. Times Sport understands that the American arrived in the country on Tuesday night to finalize the deal and is expected to link up with the squad during Wednesday’s training session. Cleveland, 29, played a big role in helping REG retain the national league championship last season making key contributions in terms of scoring, rebounds as well as assists. He rejoins the team he helped to finish at the summit of the Sahara conference group phase last year. His incredible statistics at the BAL’s Sahara Conference campaign, where he averaged a team-high 19 points per game, has given REG every reason to acquire his services this season. The local powerhouse began intensive training until February 16, which will be followed by a residential camp training before departing for Dakar, in March, just few days before the tip off. The team is currently training at the Lycee de Kigali gymnasium. Provisional squad: Pascal Niyonkuru, Prince Muhizi, Beleck Bell Engelbert, Pitchou Manga, Ntore Habimana, Adonis Filer, Dieudonne Ndizeye, Olivier Shyaka, Steven Hagumintwari, Jean Jacques Wilson Nshobozwabyosenumukiza, Cleveland Thomas and Jean de Dieu Umuhoza.
