Julian Boyd Back with the Lightning
Friday, January 26, 2018 (London, ONTARIO) – The London Lightning announce they have signed and activated Julian Boyd, who was a member of the Lightning's 2017 NBL-C Championship team.
Boyd, a 6'7 forward from San Antonio, Texas, suffered a right ACL tear late last season that caused him to miss the end of regular season and playoffs as well as the start of this season. He underwent surgery for the fourth time in his career on his right ACL and has been working hard to strengthen his knee since. While he was active last season, Boyd averaged 14 points per game along with six rebounds while shooting 52% from the floor and just under 40% from the three point line, proving that he is a big man with range.
Boyd can't wait to get back on the court after being cleared for full contact by his doctors. "It's a big weight that has finally been lifted. It's been a long time of working hard, early morning rehab and late night rehab. I've been trying to stay focused; I have been blessed with the opportunity to give it another shot. I took full advantage, I worked hard and now it's time to show all the work I have been putting in."
Head coach, Keith Vassell, is excited to have Boyd on the roster and knows he will fit right in. "Julian is extremely talented. He already played with the guys last year so they are familiar with him and he will be able to do great things for us. He has an aggressive mentality, he is a very good long range shooter and rebounder… he just knows how to play and is an incredible competitor."
"I am proud of him for working hard and it shows his character, how hard he's worked on his rehab." said owner-gm Vito Frijia. "I think he is an even better version of Julian Boyd. We are happy to have him back with the London Lightning."
Boyd knows he can help the team on its run to another championship. "I will bring leadership, intensity and positivity. I look forward to being back on the floor with my teammates, being in a game with them again will feel right and I can't wait to have that feeling again."
Boyd will be in the lineup this Sunday as the Bolts travel to Windsor to take on the Express at two P.M. at the WFCU Centre. Fans can catch his return to the Budweiser Gardens' court this coming Thursday, February 1st at seven P.M. Tickets are available at the Budweiser Gardens Box Office or at www.lightningbasketball.ca.
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