The Central District Lions ABL Men have signed American Import Kyle Miller to its team for the 2012 Central Conference ABL season.

Considering the season is possibly seven months away this signing comes really early in coach Whitmore’s preseason planning.

“We signed Josh Kollasch at around the same time last year; we looked at 6-7 guys and saw that Kyle was by far the best player available to us so we made him an offer”

“The later you leave it the harder it gets to process all of the paperwork and get a firm commitment from the player, we’re very confident Kyle will fit our group well, our leadership group were unanimous on making Kyle our new American” Whitmore said.

Kyle Miller is a 6’3 combination guard from, Waverly OH, he played his college ball at Notre Dame College before moving to Shawnee State for his senior year.

When asked what the fans will learn about Kyle in his first game, Kyle had this to say; “They will learn that I bring passion to the game of basketball.  It’s as simple as that.  I can't control if I make shots or not, but I will always be in control of how well I communicate with team mates and coaches, how hard I play, and my decision making.  And I will never settle for mediocrity”

Kyle comes from the well regarded Athletes in Action program that saw Josh Kollasch, David Nurse and Alishia Heglund make their way to the CABL in 2011.

“We have a very good connection with AIA, Kyle has toured Israel with their program as did Josh, it’s important to have a well-balanced player off the court as much as on it, we are very confident Kyle will be both”
Kyle should arrive in Australia the early part of January 2012 and as with most Americans heading here for the first time their knowledge of down under is fairly limited.

“I honestly don't know much about Australia other than that it's Steve Irwin the crocodile hunter's home country, it has a very warm climate, and there are a lot of different animals that can kill you. What I've recently learned, however, is that the culture of the country seems very laid back and that will fit me perfectly” Miller stated.

Kyle may have a bit to learn about his new surroundings but his thoughts on his game style are clear cut.

“I think my style will fit in nicely with my new team.  I feel as though I can find a steady balance between getting everyone involved while still being aggressive.  And on the defensive side of things I love to pressure the basketball 94 feet.”

Kyle looks to be the first piece of coach Whitmore’s puzzle for 2012, a puzzle that needs all of its pieces fitting nicely if it is to challenge for a top 5 spot.

“We were very happy with the culture of the group we had this year, a few little tweaks to the game plan and a small change in personnel will help us make the next step”

“I look forward to Kyle getting here; everything we have seen and heard so far has us very impressed, I am confident we have found a great team mate and role model for the young group we have”

Bring on 2012