Newcastle Eagles are pleased to announce their first new import-signing for the 2026/27 Super League Basketball (SLB) season in former Caledonia Gladiators forward Trevond Barnes.

After graduating from NCAA Division 1 Hampton University in 2019, 6’9 Barnes spent the 2024/25 season in Scotland with Caledonia, where he averaged 12.6 points, 5.7 rebounds and 37.5% from 3-point range per game.

Head coach Marc Steutel brings Barnes back to top-flight British basketball following last season in Portugal’s top Division with Imortal Albufeira, a club the American also played for in the 2023/24 campaign before he first came to the UK.


Barnes returns to the SLB with some valuable experience of the league. (Photo: SLB)

“Trevond is a really important signing ahead of the season and I’m glad his return to the SLB will see him in Eagles colours,” said Steutel.

“He is an excellent, proven front-court player with production. His skillset, maturity and team-first approach will be so important for us in an area of the team where we want to ensure we are stronger.

“His experiences of playing at Vertu Arena helped us secure his signature, and I know he is looking forward to playing in front of the best fans in the SLB – this time being cheered on!”


A familiar face to Eagles fans, Barnes faced the Eagles in the 2024/25 season with Caledonia Gladiators. (Photo: SLB)

Barnes was a popular pick-up for the Portuguese side, returning there in December 2025 after starting the 2024/25 season in France with Maritime Boulogne of the NM-1 League.

Landing back in the SLB with the loud-and-proud Eagles fans behind him will be a welcome change for the former Gladiator as he makes Tyneside his new home.

The forward has also played professionally in both Luxembourg and Georgia after graduation from his Colonial Athletic Association Conference college. (Photo: Boulogne)

“I’m excited to join this club. I know it has great history and an amazing fanbase”, said Barnes.

“Opportunities to play in places like Newcastle don’t come around that often, so I’m ready to take full advantage and give it all I’ve got.


“From my previous stint in the SLB, I gained an understanding of what works and what doesn’t in this league. I believe those moments will be valuable for me to be able to pull from to help teach and lead the other guys in crucial situations.

“It will be nice to have those rambunctious Eagles fans on my side this time around. They love to heckle the opponent and hype up their team. I’m looking forward to being on their side.”

The 6’9 forward comes to Newcastle from Portugal’s Imortal Albufeira. (Photo: Imortal)

Season tickets for the 2026/27 campaign, including access to exclusive events, discounts and more, are available from the box office.

Fans can take advantage of the Early Bird offer with savings until the end of the month and a 3-month payment plan option also available.