Ex-Rider Arrives In Manchester

Manchester Basketball have added Duke Shelton (207-C/F-1995, college: Tampa) to the 2025-26 roster.

The American-born forward, who holds a British passport, will be a familiar face to Super League fans having spent two years at Newcastle Eagles and two at Leicester Riders. Last season at Riders, Shelton contributed 6.6 points and 4.6 rebounds per game, winning the Playoff Final at the O2 in May.

At 6’9”, Shelton is a commanding presence in the paint, and a seasoned professional having graduated from Max Jones’ University of Tampa.

“I am very excited about joining Manchester! I’m looking forward to the great atmosphere and the great city, teammates, supporters and most of all contributing to winning!”

Manchester head coach Matthew Otten commented:

"Duke is an athletic big with a championship pedigree who works well around the rim. As a domestic player it is nice to have a player who can increase the competition in practice and help our team improve."

Duke signed in time to be included in the squad last weekend when MCR took on Sheffield away on Sunday afternoon and will be involved in the home games against Prishtina on Wednesday and Cheshire on Friday.