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 Saint John Riptide

Millrats And Kebs Complete Blockbuster Trade

March 9, 2009 - Premier Basketball League (PBL)
Saint John Riptide News Release


(Manchester, NH): The Manchester Millrats and the Quebec Kebs completed a blockbuster trade that was approved by the League and posted at 4:55 pm - just five minutes prior to the PBL transaction deadline.

Manchester sent 6'6" forward Jamaal Wise, 6'8" forward Charles Mason plus cash considerations to Quebec for 6'8" 245lb power forward John Ruffus.

This historic transaction goes down as the first ever in-season player trade in PBL history.

"Charles is a solid veteran with size and NBA range and was very popular with our fans," explained Millrats Principal Owner Jason Briggs. "He has been a big part of our success over the past two seasons and we wish him the best in Quebec."

Briggs continued, "Both Charles and Jamaal (Wise) were willing to accommodate the trade knowing full well it would benefit the Millrats in their quest for a championship - that says a lot about them as people."

Ruffus was the second overall pick by the Quebec Kebs in the Montreal dispersal draft. A rugged power forward who can also play center, he averaged 20 points and 11 rebounds while with Quebec.

Millrats Head Coach Rob Spon was excited at the prospect of coaching Ruffus: "We're getting one of the best inside players in the minor leagues. He consistently knocks down the 15 foot jumper, he is automatic on the block, and he can guard the strong bigs around the league. It's tough to lose a Jamaal Wise and a Charles Mason since they are very athletic and gave 100% in practice, but we had to get bigger with the departure of Kenyon Gamble and the injury to Aaron Spears."

Spon continued, "Our General Manager, Ian McCarthy, pulled off a great trade at the last minute. He's been very keen all season - looking constantly towards getting us better and better as the season progressed."

In addition to the trade, Manchester is also pleased to announce the re-signing of 6'11 center Ifesinachi Anosike. Anosike had averaged 5.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game during the first 7 games of the season.

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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