South West Slammers announce American shooting guard Calvin Whipple as second NBL1 West men’s import

South West Slammers have announced their second import signing for the NBL1 West men’s season, with American wing Calvin Whipple joining the club. Whipple, who has played professionally in Ireland, Albania and Malta, is a noted three-point shooter and capable three-level scorer. He averaged 18.4 points, seven rebounds and 3.3 assists per game in his most recent season with Maltese side Hibernians. Prior to turning professional, the Massachusetts native played three seasons with Fairfield University in the first division of the American college system. Whipple said he was “very excited” to be joining the club. “Slammers fans can expect a lot of three-pointers and that I will bring an attitude of toughness and hard work,” he said. “I cannot wait to win games this year and compete at a high level every night.” Whipple’s signing means the Slammers’ two import spots are filled after the club announced the recruitment of centre Jamal Poplar last week. The pair will replace last season’s import duo of Buay Tuach and Alex Holcombe, who will not be back with the team this season. Tuach and Holcombe combined to average 36.5 points, 16.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 3.2 blocks and 3.1 steals per game last season.