Leicester Riders are excited to announce the signing of American forward Charles Thompson for the 2024-25 season.
6’8” Thompson will suit up for his rookie season in professional basketball after five seasons with Towson Tigers in the NCAA Division 1.
He averaged 12 points and 8 rebounds as a senior at Towson, and 10 points and 9 rebounds in his graduation year, leading the team to four winning seasons during his collegiate tenure. He graduated with an 87-51 record over five years.
Photo credit: Kenny Storck
Thompson finished his college career as Towson’s all-time leader in games played and games started, and second in all-time minutes. He is one of three players all-time to score over 1,000 points and grab 1,000 rebounds for the University, and was named to the All-CAA Third Team and CAA All-Defensive Team in 2023-24.
He ranks third in all-time in total rebounds and field goal percentage, and fourth in blocks. An efficient scorer and dominant force in the paint, Thompson averaged over 50% shooting from the field in every season for Towson. His physical play on both ends made for a prolific college highlight reel, and he looks to build on that electric portfolio with the Riders.
His father, Tony “The Tiger” Thompson, was a heavyweight boxer who retired with a 40-7 record. Tony Thompson had two fights for the unified world heavyweight titles in 2008 and 2012, both times against Wladimir Klitschko.
Charles now looks to bring his own heavyweight style of play to British basketball.
Thompson commented: “It feels great to be signed to the team. I can’t wait to get over there, meet the guys and get my feet on the ground and running. I am excited for this opportunity that I have been given and will surely make the most of it!”
Head Coach Rob Paternostro added: “We are thrilled to add Charles to our team for next season. He had a highly decorated career at Towson where his team won 20 or more games the last three seasons.
“He has put up some excellent numbers and is a very impressive defensive player, whose strength, quickness and mobility will be an excellent addition to our team.
“We are thrilled to add him to our locker room. Everyone we spoke with talked about what a great leader he is both on and off the court.”
Thompson makes the Riders’ 2024-25 roster six-strong so far, following the signings of Americans Ethan Wright and Jaylin Hunter, the re-signing of club legend Conner Washington and retention of the young British pairing of Blake Bowman and Victor Ndoukou.
