LEVI MUKUNA JOINS NIAGARA MEN'S BASKETBALL PROGRAM

WELLAND, Ont. - The Niagara College Department of Athletics & Recreation formally welcomed Levi Mukuna to the men's basketball program on Tuesday, May 14 with a media event held at the Welland Campus Athletic Centre. Mukuna enjoyed a standout high school career at Académie Catholique Mere-Teresa (ACMT) in Hamilton, Ont.

"I'm excited to be a part of Niagara College," said Mukuna. "I did my research in choosing the school I wanted to attend, and Niagara College has good coaching and is a good program. I really liked what I saw."

The 18-year old stands at six-foot-three and Knights men's basketball head coach Steve Atkin commented, "we're excited about what Levi brings to our program. He's athletic and possesses a big strong frame."

Mukuna played his high school basketball for the ACMT Jaguars where he was named co-MVP this past season. ACMT also produced the Knights 2012-13 men's basketball MVP Jimmy Bilenga. Mukuna added, "I heard really strong things about Niagara from Jimmy (Bilenga), and he was a really strong player for the Knights last year."

Also helping sway Mukuna's decision to attend Niagara College was the school's strong academic reputation. "I want to graduate and pursue a career, so I chose the General Business program. After a year of feeling things out in business, I'm hoping to decide exactly what area I want to study in."

The Knights qualified for the playoffs for the third straight season in 2012-13 but were eliminated in the first round by the Centennial Colts.

Coach Atkin is optimistic that improved results are achievable heading into the 2013-14 season. "We've had a very strong recruiting year this off-season. Outstanding student-athletes like Levi Mukuna will help us improve our program for competition at the highest level."

Mukuna echoed the sentiments expressed by his new head coach. "My goals on the court at Niagara College are to improve as a player every day. But I want to win OCAA medals and compete at the CCAA national championship."

Source: Niagara College

Photo Credit: Bernd Franke