Emmanuel Akot has left the Leicester Riders as part of an agreement between the player and the club.
The Canadian and South Sudanese forward joined the squad in September following a strong summer with hometown side Winnipeg Sea Bears in the Canadian Elite Basketball League.
After making seven appearances, Akot was injured and missed the game against league-leading London Lions at the Copper Box on Sunday.
Following discussions between club and player, it has been agreed that Akot will step away from the Riders and take time to focus on his recovery.
Akot said: “First and foremost, I want to thank the entire Leicester Riders organisation for the opportunity to be part of this team. To the coaching staff, thank you for believing in me and for all the support and guidance you’ve given me.
“To my teammates, I appreciate every one of you for the camaraderie, hard work, and memories we shared on and off the court. And to the Riders fans, your energy and passion have been incredible, and it’s meant so much to play in front of you.
“Although my time with the team has come to an end due to injury, I’m truly grateful for the experience and for everyone who’s been part of my journey here. I’ll continue to work hard on my recovery and look forward to what’s next. Thank you, Leicester Riders family.”
Leicester Riders have recognised the contribution made by Akot both on court and behind the scenes this season, paying tribute to his effort to his professionalism and wishing him the best in the next chapter of his career.
Riders Head Coach, Rob Paternostro, said: “It’s been disappointing to lose Emmanuel. He has done everything we have asked of him over the last few weeks.
“He’s a really talented player and a great teammate, but has been working through an injury for a while.
“We’ve therefore mutually come to the conclusion that he needs to take a break to focus on getting healthy.”
Coach Paternostro added that the club is now actively looking for a replacement as it works to bolster the roster for the remainder of the season.
Follow the Leicester Riders social media channels and newsletter for the latest news and updates.
