Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv has decided to exercise their option on Hickman, who will remain with the team for another season. In addition, Maccabi has reached an agreement with James, who will be signing a new, four year contract.
By Amy Samin
Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv has decided to exercise their option on Ricky Hickman, who will remain with the team for another season. In addition, Maccabi has reached an agreement with Shawn James, who will be signing a new, four year contract.
Hickman was outstanding during his first season with Maccabi, leading the team with an average of 13.5 points in the Euroleague; he also contributed 3.1 assists, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.4 steals, bringing him an average index of 14.9 (second highest on the team). Hickman enjoyed taking responsibility on the court, and proved that he has a great personality off court.
Shawn James made a huge breakthrough in his second season with Maccabi, and was selected the top player on the team. Shawn finished the season with the fifth highest overall index in the Euroleague (16.6) and was named to the All-Euroleague Second Team in his first year playing in that league. James didn’t miss a single Euroleague game this season, and led the league with an average of 1.93 blocks per game. He was third in the league with 6.5 rebounds, and also scored an average of 11.5 points per game. James was also named the second best defender in the Euroleague.
In addition, James was named the top defensive player in the Israeli Winner Sal League this season, averaging three (!) blocks per game, and was selected for the All-League First Team. James, who has a charming personality and is one of the best – and best-loved – players on the team, is also expected to play a key role in Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv in the years to come.
