Jaquan Lightfoot Named NBLC Rookie of the Year

May 11, 2023 - National Basketball League of Canada (NBL Canada) News Release

Jaquan Lightfoot of the KW Titans
(KW Titans)

"What a talented young player - a guy who has a lot to offer for years to come," said Cliff Clinkscales, Titans head coach. "He's already one of the most talented bigs ever to play in this league and he's just scratching the surface of what he can do."

In 2023, Lightfoot averaged 9.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 0.6 assists per game. He played in 23 games, starting 9. The Brooklyn, N.Y., native scored a season-high 17 points in a game three times, against both Sudbury (March 22 and April 1) and Windsor (April 21). His 56.2% shooting from the floor ranked among the league's best.

Clinkscales continued, "Jaquan is so talented from end line to end line. Off the dribble. Above the rim. It doesn't matter. When he plays the right way, he has a huge impact on the game."

Lightfoot, a 6-foot-8 forward/centre, played collegiately at Trinity Valley Community College (Athens, Texas) prior to joining the NBL Canada.

"What an impressive way to start a career. When a young man can come in and have an immediate impact among a league full of veterans, it says a lot about him as a player," said Audley Stephenson, NBL Canada Commissioner. "His tenacity, his ability to constantly get better, his willingness to always play hard are all hallmarks of this outstanding young player."

Lightfoot is the second member of the KW Titans to win the award, going back-to-back with Shakwon Barrett, who won the award in 2022. Previous winners of the NBL Canada Rookie of the Year Award include:

2011-12 | Brandon Robinson, Oshawa Power

2012-13 | Isaac Butts, Moncton Miracles

2013-14 | Raven Barber, Halifax Rainmen

2014-15 | Rashad Whack, PEI Island Storm

2015-16 | Stephen Maxwell, London Lightning

2016-17 | Maurice Jones, Windsor Express

2017-18 | Jaylon Tate, Niagara River Lions

2018-19 | Frank Bartley, Saint John Riptide

2019-20 | Antwon Lillard, PEI Island Storm

2022 | Shakwon Barrett, KW Titans

All player award winners will receive their own customized plaque courtesy of long-time NBL Canada partner and playoff sponsor, Baron Championship Rings.

Jaquan Lightfoot of the KW Titans

National Basketball League of Canada Stories from May 11, 2023

• Jaquan Lightfoot Named NBLC Rookie of the Year - NBL Canada

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