CHESHIRE PHOENIX have bolstered their roster with the signing of American forward Demonte Flannigan.

Ohio-born Flannigan played for Cleveland State NCAA 1 where he averaged 11 points and 5.6 rebounds per game in his senior year of college.

The 24-year-old American has accrued a wealth of professional experience, playing in the Danish and Austrian top divisions.

The 6’7 playmaker also turned out for the London Lions in the 17/18 BBL season, where he shared the floor with current Nix captain, Momcilo Latinovic.

Phoenix head coach Ben Thomas told the club's website: “It’s great that we have Demonte joining us for the rest of the season.

"It has been a really difficult period for us with all the injuries which has forced us to adjust and adapt.

“Demonte is a very versatile forward who has a great back to the basket game, this will definitely give us a different option on the offensive end of the floor.

“His athleticism and size will suit our team and will fit perfectly with our style of play.”

Flannigan’s arrival offsets the departure of fellow American Montell McRae, who has left the club by mutual consent.

The in-form Nix will look to secure a BBL Cup quarter-final spot this weekend with a home victory over north west rivals Manchester Giants.

Impressive back-to-back victories in last weekend’s double-header against Glasgow Rocks and Sheffield Sharks made it four successive victories for the Ellesmere Port club.

And Thomas is keen to see his side capitalise on their new-found momentum with another strong display against northern division rivals on Sunday.

“It does feel like we’ve found we’re hitting form and we’ve got that positive momentum behind us now,” he said.

“The execution of our game plan was very strong last week and we came away with two big results.

“We need to hit the same levels in Manchester on Sunday. After a slow start this season, it feels like our game has gradually got better and we’re playing some positive basketball.

“It’s a chance for us to make sure we finish in the top four of this mini-league we’re in and to meet our objective of progressing to the quarter-finals.”

New signing Flannigan is set to feature in Sunday’s game, though the Nix are still contending with injuries to Michael Ochereobia (fractured finger) and Karim Mouliom (broken foot).

Manchester are in action tonight against Sheffield, London Lions host London City Royals, Bristol Flyers head to Worcester Wolves while Newcastle Eagles entertain Leicester Riders.

Surrey Scorchers are at home to Bristol tomorrow, with Plymouth hosting the Lions on Sunday.