Newcastle Eagles have made their first signing of the close season and returned fan’s favourite Cole Long to the Vertu Motors Arena for 2025/26 Super League Basketball (SLB).

Canadian sharpshooter Long had a very solid first season in the top-flight of British basketball last campaign impressing many.

The 6’7” from Orangeville, Ontario was a very valuable part of the Eagles roster as they picked up the 2025 SLB Trophy and made a run all the way to the European North Basketball League (ENBL) final.

“I’m very pleased to have the opportunity to go back to a club, coach, and community who believe in my abilities”, said Long.

“For me personally it’s all about bringing wining efforts to help the team succeed and fight for more championship opportunities.

“We had a very special and talented group last season who were able to accomplish a lot. I hope our winning mentality will be able transfer over into next season.”

Long averaged 10 points and 4.1 rebounds domestically and 7.3 points and 3.9 rebounds in Europe.

“I believe everyone’s goal will be to bring home the trophies that we missed out on last season and continue to create Eagles history”, the forward added.

“I am eager to win the playoffs and finish our ENBL campaign the right way.

“I have had the opportunity to play in four finals this past two seasons and they are not an easy thing to reach.

“It will take a strong effort from the entire organisation and I believe we can get there. I’m looking forward to being an Eagle once again”.

The Canadian returns to Tyneside to continue his overseas career into his fourth professional season.

Head coach Marc Steutel spoke fondly of Long’s on and off-court contribution to the club at Friday night’s premiere of the documentary Soaring Into History so it’s clear Steutel was keen to bring him back.

“Cole Long returning to Newcastle Eagles is a massive plus for the whole club”, said Steutel.

“He epitomises what Newcastle is all about. Hard-working, selfless, competitive and a winner”.

Long was the Eagles leading 3-point shooter last season averaging 37.5% in the SLB and 36.5% in the ENBL, but often it was his unselfish team play and great one-on-one defensive play that caught the eye.

“Cole’s ability to defend with versatility across a range of positions and his unmatched shooting and spacing is a key attribute for any team”, Steutel continued.

“He’s truly one of the best teammates I’ve ever worked with and it’s great news he is returning”.

The short film Soaring Intro History that captured the Eagles 2025 ENBL Final Four appearance, featuring Long and his teammates last season, is available on DAZN and YouTube from 7:30pm on Monday 14 July.

More announcements are set to follow soon as the build-up to the new season continues and the club look to bring more silverware to Newcastle.

Season tickets are still available with the extended Early Bird offer to be sure fans don’t miss a moment of the action in the Vertu Motors Arena from this September.