KW Titans Re-Sign PF/C Derek Hall & Flenard Whitfield for 2018-19 Season
August 9, 2018 - National Basketball League of Canada (NBL Canada)
KW Titans News Release
Flenard Whitfield and the KW Titans bench share a laugh
(KW Titans)
The Kitchener-Waterloo Titans Basketball Club is excited to announce the re-signing of PF/C Derek Hall and PF/C Flenard Whitfield for the 2018-19 NBL Canada season.
"Derek and Flen provide a strong foundation for our front court this coming season," explained KW Titans Head Coach, Cavell Johnson. "It's really special to have two bigs on the floor with their skill sets and unselfish approach to the game. They'll both have a strong defensive presence and will open up the floor for one another and their teammates. And above all else, they're high character individuals that are hungry to win."
Derek Hall (7'0", 235 lbs), played 39 games for the Titans during 2017-18 NBL Canada season, where he averaged 18.3 PPG on 57.6% FG and 79.4% FT shooting, 3.9 AST, while leading the league with 11.6 RPG.
Coach Johnson and Hall shared their thoughts on returning to KW and working together next season: "Derek's consistency and reliability on a daily basis speak volumes to his commitment as a pro. He leads by example and pushes those around him to be better. I'm excited to work with him for a full season," said Johnson. "When I heard that Cavell was returning as Head Coach, I knew I wanted to come back," said Hall. "Cavell understands our mentality as players and knows how to connect with us. I have nothing but respect for him. From the coaching staff, to the management team, and the fans I came across in KW this past season, I was always shown support and mutual respect at all times. That goes a long way for me. And having the opportunity to continue my pro playing career closer to my home in Pennsylvania where my family, friends and girlfriend can watch me and the Titans play was an important factor as well."
Hall also shared some thoughts on his new teammate and expectations for the upcoming season: "I'm really excited to play next to Flen. I watched a few of his games and could see his talent and intensity on the floor. I've been told he keeps himself and his teammates accountable and works extremely hard in practice. I really admire that in a teammate. With Cavell at the helm and the potential of a core group of returning players, I am fully confident we can make some noise in the playoffs and make a run for the championship."
Flenard Whitfield (6'7", 235 lbs), played 26 games during the 2017-18 season for the championship winning Karhu Kauhajoki in Finland's Korisliiga, where he averaged 12 PPG on 55.7% FG shooting and 5.4 RPG. As a member of the KW Titans in 2016-17, Whitfield averaged 18.1 PPG on 51.7% FG and 78.9% FT shooting, and 8.7 RPG, while averaging 24 PPG on 58% FG shooting during the Titans first round playoff series.
"Flen's tenacity on both ends of the floor helps set the tone on our front line. The dog and grind that he brings to everyday of his career is the type of character a coach wants to build a team around," explained Coach Johnson.
"I'm so excited to be back in KW," said Whitfield. "We have a great community and fan base, and a management team that cares about its players. I'm looking forward to working with Derek in the front court and doing some damage together. I feel I've learned a lot from being a part of a championship team in Finland this past season, and I plan on taking a leadership role with the Titans, working with our other vets to build something special in KW."
Whitfield also shared his thoughts on playing for Coach Johnson after being NBLC teammates in Brampton and KW. "Cavell has always been a mentor to me, and is someone I trust and deeply respect. When I heard the news that Titans management were bringing him back as Head Coach, I knew the timing was right for me to return. I have great trust in Cavell's leadership and the direction that our team is heading this coming season."
KW Titans tip off the 2018-19 NBL Canada season at the Aud in mid-November. Bowl season tickets are on sale, with a 10% discount until August 31st, 2018. Tickets can be purchased at KW Tickets at 1-800-265-8977 or at the Activa Box Office at the Aud.
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