Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders have agreed a deal with Great Britain captain Andrew Sullivan to keep him at John Sandford Sports Centre for the remainder of the BBL season.

The 31-year-old forward joined Riders at the beginning of the season on a week-to-week deal, following his departure from Mersey Tigers.

Since his arrival, Sullivan has been influential in Riders’ unbeaten start to the BBL Championship this season, with the organisation successfully searching for sponsorship from local companies in a bid to ensure that the experienced Sullivan remains in Leicester in the build-up to the 2012 London Olympics.

Last year, Sullivan helped Mersey Tigers to a BBL treble, as the side won the BBL Trophy, BBL play-offs and the BBL Championship.

Prior to his time with Mersey, Sullivan also won silverware with Newcastle Eagles, with whom he spent three spells with over a career which has also seen him play across Europe.

“Drew is hugely experienced and is a winner, and he knows the BBL.,” said Riders head coach Rob Paternostro.

“We have a relatively young team with three BBL rookies in key positions, and I know they all appreciate the experience and insights Sullivan provides.

“He is very unselfish and makes big contributions at both ends of the court. We were very fortunate to pick him up.”

The news of Sullivan’s stay at Leicester Riders comes at a perfect time, as the team head to Newcastle Eagles on Friday evening (2 December) in the second leg of the BBL Cup semi-final.

With the score from the first leg tied at 90-90, Riders are just one win away from an appearance at the competition’s final in Birmingham on 15 January.

- Picture – Ville Vuorinen