ALASKA ACES SIGN EX-BULL EDDIE BASDEN

An ex-Chicago Bulls swingman is all set to take the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) by storm come this 2nd Conference which starts next month. Popular PhilStar Columnist and PBA TV Analyst Quinito Henson texted me this morning that Eddie Basden, who saw action for the Bulls during the 2005-06 season, was signed up by Alaska Milk Aces as its reinforcement in the next conference, which has an import height limit of 6-4.  Henson also confirmed the arrival of imports Paul Harris of Talk N Text and Hassan Adams of Rain Or Shine, respectively. The former University of North Carolina at Charlotte standout averaged 2.1 ppg, 1.5 rpg and shot .800 from the FT line in 19 games for the Bulls. Basden also saw action for two seasons in the NBA D-League with career averages of 12.0 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 2.1 apg in 52 games with the Tulsa 66ers and Austin Toros. He is also a Euro League veteran having suited up for Fenerbahce, Cholet Basket,  Telekom Bonn and Antalya Buyuksehir from 2006 to 2009. Basden was described as an outstanding defensive player and has excellent rebounding, strength and terrific hands, according to Draft Express.

“Best attribute as far as the NBA is concerned is his outstanding disruptive defense, both man to man and team. Capable of locking down anyone from the 1-3 positions. An instinctive defender, sees things before they happen and always seems be in the right place at the right time. Terrific anticipation skills, gets in the passing lanes, comes up with a lot of steals, but without risking his defensive positioning excessively. Speed is not an issue as his lateral movement is fantastic. Has excellent strength and terrific hands. An excellent rebounder, despite his size.

“Offensively, he's not a scorer, but he won't hurt you in the team concept. Has good ball-handling skills and is capable of bringing the ball up the floor. Will score some baskets if you give him an open look, by getting in the passing lanes and coming up with steals, or simply by being in the right place at the right time. Good unselfish passer, who understands the game and how to fit in within it. Averages almost 4 assists per game, which is excellent for a swingman who doesn't always have the ball in his hands.”