Reading Rockets have signed their second player ahead of the 2019-2020 season with American Match Burnham the latest to put pen to paper
for the Berkshire outfit. Burnham provides some much-needed height in the front court with the 6’8 forward also recently completing his college career in the United States.
After graduating from Liberty High School in Spangle, Washington, the 22-year-old was the only NAIA freshman in the nation to earn honourable-mention All-American distinction after being named Frontier Conference Freshman of the Year. He was third on the team in scoring with 13.0 points per game, averaged 3.6 rebounds, and was second on the team in blocks. Burnham also shot 42.9% from the three on that season.
As a junior in 2017-18, Burnham was arguably one of the best forwards in the nation. He finished the 2017-18 season shooting 45% from the three-point line. After receiving an All-American honourable mention and Frontier Conference second team all-conference his junior season, Burnham was selected in the preseason coaches’ poll to be first team all-conference.
In signing his first professional contract, the 6’8 forward was very buoyant about joining the Rockets and is looking forward to getting started in England. Burnham said,
“I’m thankful for the opportunity to continue playing basketball at a high level and I’m excited to join a community and family atmosphere the Reading Rockets provide. I’m really looking forward to getting started and linking up with my new teammates in a few weeks’ time.”
Rockets Head Coach Alan Keane was pleased to get both his import spots filled early on and is looking forward to working with Burnham from next week. The GB Under 18 Head Coach said,
“We are really pleased to have Match and indeed Nick joining us this year in Reading. Both players are fresh out of college and look hungry to impress so I have no doubt they will be a great fit for us. Match looks an exciting prospect, a big body that can play in the paint but can also step out and shoot the three really well so for me this was an easy signing to make. I’m really looking forward to seeing Match and Nick in action when pre-season begins next week.”
Check back tomorrow at midday for another player announcement!
