By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The BKT EuroCup competitive outlook for the upcoming 2026–27 season continues to take shape with two major frontcourt acquisitions as the London Lions and Niners Chemnitz finalized pivotal roster additions on Tuesday.
The team based in the British capital secured a significant physical presence in the paint by signing Canadian center Thomas Kennedy to a one-year contract. The 25-year-old big joins the Lions following a productive EuroCup debut campaign with Cedevita Olimpija. During his 18 continental appearances last year, the interior force established himself as a reliable asset, contributing averages of 7.9 points alongside 5.5 rebounds. Kennedy brings a championship pedigree to London, having recently secured both the Liga OTP banka and SuperCup in Slovenia. His European journey also features impactful stints in Germany with Telekom Baskets Bonn, complemented by extensive experience in his native country. This represents the fifth official summer signing for the Lions, joining a newly reinforced core that includes Joel Scott and Deane Williams.
Simultaneously, the Niners announced a familiar face is returning to Germany, picking up veteran forward Darion Atkins on a two-year agreement. The experienced 33-year-old forward-center transitions from Israeli side Maccabi Cnaan Ramat Gan, where he registered 9.9 points and 6.1 rebounds per contest. This roster move marks a homecoming for the former Virginia standout, who previously excelled with Chemnitz during the 2021–22 season. His extensive international resume boasts prior EuroCup experience with Italian club Dolomiti Energia Trento, alongside other European stops spanning France, Spain, Greece, and Turkiye.
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