MORROW, Ga. – Former Clayton State men's basketball player Richard Bell (West Sussex, England) has signed a professional contract with the Manchester Giants of the British Basketball League (BBL) as announced by that organization on Thursday, August 11.
 
"We are really pleased to have Richard with us," said CEO John Davis. "He impressed us with his ability and attitude and he has signed a two-year contract."
 
Bell played two years for the Lakers after three years with Division I University of Nevada. During his time at Clayton State he played in 49 games, starting 14 while averaging 4.0 points, 4.6 rebounds and shooting .451 from the floor.
 
As a senior in 2015-16 he scored a season-high 11 points against Young Harris and ripped down eight boards vs. Francis Marion. During his junior year he posted a career-high 14 points with nine rebounds against Georgia Southwestern and had a career-best 11 boards in a 62-58 overtime victory vs. Carson-Newman.
 
"Really proud of Richard Bell," said Clayton State head men's basketball coach Jimmy Link. "He is an unbelievable student along with being a great basketball player. He is smart using basketball to pursue a higher education. He's going to be a great pro!"
 
Bell becomes the seventh summer signing by the Giants, who are preparing for the beginning of the 2016-17 season in September. Members of the BBL, Manchester kicks off the campaign against a USA Select team on September 4 before the regular season begins vs. Glasgow on September 25.
 
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Former Clayton State men's basketball player Richard Bell has signed a professional contract with the Manchester Giants of the British Basketball League (BBL).