WORCESTER Wolves ’ director of basketball Paul James is confident he is building a side capable of once more challenging for top spot in the British Basketball League.

After the recent signing of power forward Stan Ocitti, James now welcomes a second new face to the city in 27-year-old small forward Alex Owumi.

Six foot five inch Nigerian-born Owumi will be pleased to be coming to the calm surroundings of Worcester after playing last year in the troubled Middle-East.

He began the season at Libyan club Al-Nasr Benghazi, before being forced to flee the country as the civil war erupted. However, there was a happier ending to his time in the region as he took up an offer to join Egyptian club El-Olympi Alexandria where he won Most Valuable Player honours while leading his side to the championship.

Owumi played college ball in the USA at Alcorn State University, averaging 14 points and seven rebounds in his final year.

After graduating, he spent some time playing in American leagues and then had spells in France and Macedonia prior to his arrival in Libya.

He is now looking forward to making an impact in Worcester, saying: “I am extremely excited to officially be a part of the Worcester Wolves organisation.

“I am grateful to coach James for allowing me to be part of something special and I am excited for the upcoming season and looking forward to bringing the championship to Worcester.”

James is delighted to have Owumi on board, commenting: “Alex is a tough-nosed player.

“He has worked hard to get to where he is. I think he will combine well in the backcourt with Sherrad (Prezzie-Blue) and be able to take on some of the ball-handling duties.

“He distributes the ball well and will give us multiple options both on offence and defence.”

James also added that he is close to agreeing a deal for a new international centre to join the Wolves: “It is now just a question of finalising a contract.

“This is a player who I coached against in European competition a few years back when I was in charge of Guildford Heat,“ he said.

“Once everything is fully signed off, I will be proud to announce the details.”