Newcastle Eagles have underlined their commitment to developing the next generation of British basketball players with the signing of a number of talented young players.

In addition to the likes of local youngsters Will Spragg and Aaron Nielsen, the club have, for the first time extended their net across Britain in a search for new talent by clinching the signing of England Under 18 international Jamie Glen.

The 6`5 guard who is a product of the Manchester development programme will play for the Eagles first team this season with Managing Director Paul Blake eager to highlight the clubs decision to spread their wings.

“We are really chuffed to get Jamie on board and it is testament to the commitment of the Eagles in finding talented youngsters and moulding them into players who can represent the club for years to come.”

“Like many young players, Glen was short of options upon graduating from the England U18 programme with his home club Manchester not fielding a team in the BBL and the player himself not wishing to go abroad.”

“However, after impressing Fab Flournoy in a summer trial specially set up for him, he will also be part of the Eagles extended squad this season.”

Flournoy meanwhile added his thoughts on capturing one of the brightest young basketball prospects in the country.

“We are delighted to be able to offer Jamie the opportunity to continue his basketball education in the North East. Just as with Bridgey and Darius we are determined to continue to give talented young players an opportunity to develop wherever they come from. ”

“Whilst immediate success is obviously important it is crucial that we also look to the next generation of Eagles players. Jamie will have to prove himself in our practices but provided that he is dedicated and determined I am sure he will be a success here over the next few years.”

In addition to Jamie Glen, the Eagles are also welcoming 19 year old Liam O’Mahoney into their ranks. The 6ft 10″ forward from Essex played for Northumbria last season under former Eagles player Greg Modzelewski and after working hard this summer has shown significant progression.

While he will continue to feature with Team Northumbria during the 2008/09 season, he will be working with the Eagles squad during the season to further continue his exciting development.