Newcastle Eagles have moved to bolster their ranks ahead of the busy Christmas period following the recruitment of experienced playmaker Christian James.

And with the US star already in the UK, club bosses are waiting to discover whether the 28-year-old is eligible to make his Super League Basketball debut this weekend.

James will travel to Glasgow with his new team-mates ahead of this afternoon’s Championship clash against the Caledonia Gladiators.

But despite club officials working around the clock to secure the guard’s international clearance in time for tip-off, it could be down to the last minute to get the go-ahead.

“I’m very excited to be a part of this great organisation,” said James, who arrives in the SLB off the back of a 38-game season in Venezuela with Trotamundos.

“It means a lot to me to be a part of this team and I’m ready to help take the Eagles to another level!

“I can’t wait to meet our fans. Let’s go Eagles!”

James burst onto the professional scene with Moncada Energy Agrigento in 2019 and spent three years ripping it up in Italy’s second tier.

Averaging 16 points, five rebounds and two assists per game, the 6ft 4in star became a firm favourite with fans at Moncada, Staff Mantova and Sella Cento.

And a spell in Japan underlined his versatility as a scorer and a provider from the backcourt as James averaged 16 points, five rebounds and four assists across 48 games with Bambitious Nara.

“We are really excited to add Christian to the squad,” said Eagles’ head coach Marc Steutel.

“We have been looking far and wide for the right player and person and we feel Christian is that.

“He has impacted the game in multiple ways at every level he’s played at during a successful career to date.

“His versatility and winning mentality will be a welcome addition”.